emotec Communications Inc. rolled out a frame relay access device last week that supports a wide variety of network traffic and protocols, including IBM's Systems Network Architecture, Ethernet, and voice.
The CX900e, an upgraded version of the Montreal company's existing CX900, is targeted at branch offices and companies' regional network hubs. A key capability of the device is that it lets users add or swap boards to run up to seven different protocol
s simultaneously over their frame relay networks. "They've got it all covered as far as legacy protocols," says Erin Dunne, manager of research services for Vertical Systems Group, a consulting firm in Dedham, Mass.
Features include Ethernet and Token Ring routing; support for legacy protocols, including SNA, asynchronous links, 3270 mainframe terminals, HDLC, and X.25; and support for voice, fax, and video traffic. The CX900e provides access to frame relay, X.25, and ISDN networks at speeds up to 2 Mbps.
Multiprotocol support drew Shuffle Master Gaming Inc. of Eaton Prairie, Minn., to Memotec's frame relay devices for a 13-site data network linking its casinos. The company uses the network to transport the flow of data from computers running its "Let it Ride" casino poker game. Players who get a straight or royal flush qualify for a nationwide $500,000 tournament this fall.
Shuffle Master software development manager Jim Helgesen designed the network to be able to run additional games or even i
nterconnect the company's LANs over the network. "Memotec lets you use the same platform to do a lot of different technologies," he says. "I can just pull out an asynchronous card and slap in an Ethernet card." With most frame relay devices, that wouldn't be possible, he adds.
The CX900e starts at $1,995 and is scheduled to ship in mid-July.
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emotec Communications Inc. rolled out a frame relay access device last week that supports a wide variety of network traffic and protocols, including IBM's Systems Network Architecture, Ethernet, and voice.
