On its 20th anniversary, ComNet showed a vigorous industry with bright new approaches to networking challenges. New products in routing/switching, network management, voice over IP, videoconferencing, and access were particularly strong this year. Digital Subscriber Line got a lot of attention, leading us to think that this year, at last, it might even reach out and touch someone. Out of all the products we saw, here are our Communications News Editors' Choices for best of show:
Editors' Choice/Power Protection
PROTECT ACCESS TO Internet/intranet capabilities with Patriot Pro series uninterruptible power systems, Safeguards network, Unix, and CAAD/CAM/CAE workstations, desktop and small business servers, and PCs from lightning, surges, overvoltages, blackouts, brownouts, and sags, Models include 400 VA, 750 VA, and 1,000 VA. Incorporates telephone/10Base-T network surge suppression to protect computers connected to the Internet via a modem, safeguards networks from dangerous lightning and "backdoor" surges via Ethernet 10Base-T.--Best Power
Circle 330 for more information
Editors' Choice/Network Management
MULTISERVICE WAN management platform, Wise-Wan200, sits on the WAN between router or FRAD and CSU/DSU. Includes server and management modules for adaptive shaping of traffic, monitoring, troubleshooting. Can continuously monitor traffic on all lines (leased lines, frame relay, PPP, HDLC) and allocate bandwidth according to subscription and guaranteed service levels. Audits carrier's service level and charges. Management is SQL server with Java-based console. Managers can set policies to give high priority to mission critical applications, add or reduce bandwidth as necessary.--NetReality
Circle 348 for more information
Editors' Choice: High-Speed Routing
MASSIVELY PARALLEL processing router includes Route PathFinder software, uses 1,000 RISC processors to forward packets at rates up to 400 million per second. StreamProcessor 2400 includes software that can go up to 4 terrabytes by linking chassis together. Every card is a separate standalone processor. Layerless processing of entire packet enables routing on application-specific characteristics in the payload. Software collects and exchanges route information with common gateway and network protocols including IGRP and OSFP. Uses RMON2 agents to collect network changes in real time.--Neo Networks
Circle 346 for more information
Editors' Choice/Switching
POWERHOUSE GIGABIT ETHERNET switching eases migration, enhances legacy LAN backbone performance. Millenium 4000 series of switches integrates wire-speed switching into scalable architecture with fault-tolerance at the system, port, and network level. Media-independent, five-slot chassis supports switched 10 Mbps Ethernet, 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet, 1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet, ATM, and FDDI connectivity. Replaces overloaded routers, workgroup switches, concentrators. Segments workgroups and server farms with dedicated switch connections. Maximum 36 100 Mbps links to Fast Ethernet or six fully switched FDDI rings all channeled onto 1 Gbps link. Secure super-power with lots more to offer.--XLNT
Circle 363 for more information
Editors' Choice/Test Equipment
TEST WAN AND INTERNET connections with Serialtest Async & Spy. 32-bit software turns any Windows 95 PC or Notebook into an async RS-232 serial port communications/internal modem data and protocol analyzer. Handles baud rates up to 115.2 Kbps, including user-defined non-standard rates. Captured data information includes detailed packet-level data bytes, control signals, error conditions. Decodes async protocols including PPP, SLIP, TCP/IP, user customized protocol stack, and custom decodes. Software flow control (including XON/XOFF characters) and hardware flow control (RTS/ CTS and DTR/DSR).--Frontline Test Equipment, Inc.
Circle 375 for more information
Editors' Choice/Switching
Gigabit Ethernet multilayer switching with the GigaFrame[TM] Switching System enables enterprise users to construct a collapsed Gigabit Ethernet backbone. The GFS 3012 provides: 12 switched Gigabit Ethernet 1000Base-TX ports or 48 switched 10/100 autonegotiation ports. QoS through port priority. DirectIP Layer 3 Switching with DHCP support. Selective flow control for zero packet loss. Extended distances to 110 km via fiber optics. Local and InterSwitch VLAN support. Sustained filter/forwarding rate of 5.5 million packets per second.--NBase Communications
Circle 376 for more information
WIRELESS
DISTRIBUTE ADVANCED VOICE, data, and video services with SpectraPoint, a fully integrated digital, two-way, solid state wireless local multipoint distribution service (LMDS) system. Centered on the 28 GHz band, it provides rapidly deployed and incrementally built systems with a high level of service flexibility to cover the "last mile" of connectivity to customers.--Bosch Telecom
Circle 331 for more information
DSL
SUITE OF REMOTE ACCESS products supports xDSL standards for high-speed communications. Express L128 and L128T support ISDN and IDSL technologies; Express L768 supports SDSL; and Express L1.5 supports HDSL. All use IP and IPX routing and bridging. L128, L768, and L1.5 are data-only; L128T provides two analog phone ports for connecting phone, fax, or analog modem.--AdTran
Circle 333 for more information
USE ATM OVER ADSL to provide high-speed virtual connections to multiple services simultaneously. The Hayes ADSL Modem delivers up to 6 Mbps MPEG II video, audio, and data on existing copper phone lines, using DMT per ANSI T1.413. Supports permanent and switched virtual circuits.--Hayes Microcomputer Products, Inc.
Circle 335 for more information
A SPLITTERLESS VERSION of the Speedport ADSL access multiplexer is available, making the modem easier to install and possibly eliminating the need for a service call for installation. DSL shares a line simultaneously with basic rate ISDN or digital pair gain systems, with service at rates from 384 Kbps to 1 Mbps. Jointly developed by Fujitsu and Orckit Communications.--Fujitsu Network Communications
Circle 332 for more information
ATM-BASED CAP RADSL MODEM by Efficient Networks delivers 8Mbps downstream access speed for teleworking, remote LAN connectivity, Internet access. SpeedStream 5030 modem includes single 10Base-T Ethernet port, acts as Ethernet bridge for lightning-fast data transfer. Easily managed from local or remote site. Capable of supporting future routing, tunneling features.--Efficient Networks, Inc.
Circle 365 for more information
EXTEND THE USEFUL life of your existing copper infrastructure with the Alcatel 1000 ADSL, a complete ATM service delivery system. Uses discrete multi-tone (DMT) modulation to deliver multimegabit per second data, video, image, and voice. Easy integration with existing CPE and network. Add equipment incrementally.--Alcatel
Circle 334 for more information
CONVERSION TOOLS
IDEAL FOR WIRING CENTERS in large LANS, the Conversion Center platform is capable of accepting the vendor's line of Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, FDDI, token ring,111and Gigabit Ethernet conversion tools already shipping as stand-alone units. Supports 16 slots in a 19" rack-mountable design. Options include SNMP management and redundant power.--Transition Networks
Circle 336 for more information
SECURITY
NEW NETWORK PROTECTION capabilities have been added to SessionWall-3, Windows-based network protection solution that combines usage reporting, content scanning, intrusion detection, immediate alerts of policy violations, automatic blocking of inappropriate sessions, and other features in single integrated package. Release 2.1 adds protection against Land, Winnuke, Teardrop low-level protocol service denial attacks; detects malicious HTML e-mail; introduces new reports and reporting flexibility.--AbirNet
Circle 337 for more information
COMPANIES CAN OUTSOURCE the technical complexities of firewall security with the WorldNet Managed Firewall Service. Provides key components required for network security, including design and installation, monitoring, management, and maintenance of a software-based firewall. Uses the Check Point FireWall-1 enterprise security solution from Check Point Software Technologies Ltd.--AT&T
Circle 338 for more information
SECURE 100 Mbps TRAFFIC with cIPRO-VPN virtual private network solution. Incorporates encryption, firewall, auditing, and security management capabilities for all types of network structures. Dedicated hardware operates transparently to user, is easily integrated into existing IP networks. Features key management, redundant backup tunneling, and Network Address Translation. Employs latest and most widely accpeted security standards: IPSec, ISAKMP/Oakley, RSA, DiffieHellman, secure SNMP, DES, 3xDES.--RADGUARD, Inc.
Circle 339 for more information
IP TELEPHONY
ENABLE-REAL TIME VOICE and fax communications over the Internet or private intranets with Motorola VIPR line of IP telephony products. Part of the standards-based MPRouter and Vanguard family of network access devices. 8K and 16K voice compression. Bandwidth and network control via on-board and SNMP management. Voice and fax traffic priority protocols; DSPs with built-in echo cancellation.--Motorola
Circle 340 for more information
VIDEOCONFERENCING
COMPREHENSIVE SET of Version II enhancements and extensions is provided by Version 2.0 of the H.323 Protocol Stack. Includes H.225 RAS enhancements (new fields and messages), new Q.931 messages and procedures such as Fast Setup, new H.245 fields and capabilities such as enhancements for DTMF controls, and H.450 supplementary services support including call transfer and forward.--RADVision
Circle 342 for more information
HUBS/SWITCHES/ROUTERS
A DISTRIBUTED MULTILAYER switch that combines the speed, functionality, and ease-of-use switches with the scalability and flexibility of routers, the Apollo Pro delivers wire-speed switching and high-speed Layer 3 IP/IPX routing. Single master and up to 31 slave units (which can be connected via 10/100Base-T or FO interfaces) deliver a port density of over 600 full-function routed switch ports. Supports VLANs. Mix 8 Fast Ethernet or 16 Ethernet, 4 Fast Ethernet modules.--RND Networks
Circle 343 for more information
NEW PRICING FOR SWITCH of $399 per port, and $575 per seat for switch and adapter, comparable to token ring and fast Ethernet. ForeRunner LE 155 features plug and play. Single-mode fiber interface on OC3c and OC12c on the port expansion models now available.--Fore Systems
Circle 359 for more information
MULTISERVICE BROADBAND and IP switching for carriers and corporate intranets in an ATM edge switch. NCX 1E6 consists of ATM switching fabric with integrated IP module that controls the switching fabric. Supports multiple switching and routing protocols, including IFMP, GSMP, RIP, OSPF, IGRP.--Telematics International
Circle 345 for more information
ELIMINATE NEED FOR EXTERNAL ACCESS devices with latest pair of SpanNet router models. Access fractional T1 facilities with Model SPN-2500-T/BRI with built-in T1 CSU/DSU. Model SPN-2500-D/BRI includes a DDS CSU/ DSU. Both routers provide an ISDN BRI "U" interface for backup, support industry standard protocols, and include an integral firewall. Compliant with National ISDN 1, ATT5ESS, NTDMS 100.--Eastern Research Inc.
Circle 347 for more information
T1/T3
NODAL SWITCHING SOFTWARE for CAC integrated access multiplexer combines local, long distance and data onto a single optimized T1 circuit. IXCx can offer least-cost call routing over single T1 facility with Class 4 switches. Network providers can offer local service without incurring capital cost of deploying local switches in every LATA. End users can get lower rates on local, long distance, and Internet service from a single bundled service provider on existing telephone systems.--Carrier Access Corp.
Circle 355 for more information
WEB TOOLS
DIRECT CUSTOMER SERVICE CONTACT is just a click away on the Web using networkMCI's Click'nConnect. Premium access software allows Internet users to browse a company's Web site and originate a voice call simply by clicking an icon on that site. Call is launched over the Internet and connects Web user to company representative at a toll-free number. MCI Vault architecture seamlessly integrates traditional PSTN with the Internet. MCI toll-free number, multimedia computer required.--MCI Telecommunications
Circle 366 for more information
NETWORK MANAGEMENT
ENHANCED RMON2 monitoring for ATM backbones, trunks, and server links is available with the 8100 Series Probes. Monitor through the application layer. Works with current Unix and Windows NIT versions of vendor's Manager management software. Interfaces include HDX OC3c multimode and FDX OC3c fiber.--NetScout Systems
Circle 350 for more information
CREATE AND MONITOR both logical and physical views of network objects and their configurations with VISIONAEL Net 3.0. Single software console doubles as design and problem research tool, allowing network engineer to dynamically build graphics from database information and include a Visio-based logical view. Interfacing capability with leading logical network management software such as HIP OpenView, Tivoli TME NetView, and Cabletron Spectrum produces an incredibly detailed status view of network, greatly reduces fault isolation time and effort.--VISIONAEL Corp.
Circle 351 for more information
INTERNET BANDWIDTH MANAGEMENT software provides QoS controls for enterprises and ISPs. Guidepost allocates and reserves network bandwidth resources according to management priorities, guaranteeing critical applications always run. Includes policy-based management tools for prioritizing Internet, intranet, extranet access, setting maximum/minimum service levels. Fully scalable. Features MAC-Layer Stateful Inspection Technology for extremely fast throughput, drag-and-drop GUI, real-time graphical connection monitoring. Compatible with any firewall.--NetGuard, Inc.
Circle 352 for more information
INTEGRATED VIDEO
VIDEO MODULE ENABLES video applications to be integrated with voice, data, fax across a common WAN. MSX-5400 supports connectivity between frame relay, IP, and PSTN networks, enabling enterprise customers to integrate Internet, intranet, frame relay, and PSTN voice traffic.--ACT Networks, Inc.
Circle 354 for more information
IP-BASED MULTIPLEXER uses standard IP for all signaling and control functions in the node and all networking functions in the network. AIM eliminates single-purpose access devices and circuits, simplifying on-site hardware and cabling. Standard SNMP and IP allow provisioning and control through the local loop to customer location.--Coastcom
Circle 356 for more information
BROADBAND M13 multiplexer for T1 delivery, T3 backhaul from ISPs, CLECs, LECs, and wireless service providers occupies less than one-third the space of traditional multiplexers. EdgeLink 100 provides DS3 to T1 and DS1, or DS1 to DS3.--Telco Systems
Circle 357 for more information
TEST EQUIPMENT
WEB-ENABLED TEST TOOLS provide portable management, analysis capabilities for maintaining Fast Ethernet networks. View LAN, WAN devices with Fluke 686 (10/100Mbps Ethernet, token ring) or 683 (10/100 Mbps Ethernet) Enterprise LANMeter. Tools function as an HTTP server, providing access to results, catalog files reports from any Web browser. Can also e-mail data files. Optional WideAreaWizard allows LANMeter to access configuration, status, error information on WAN interfaces, including frame relay, ISDN, and T1/E1 standards-based MIBs using SNMP.--Fluke Corp.
Circle 361 for more information
MULTI-PROTOCOL ANALYZER uses single board that auto-learns and reconfigures itself with software to the particular network or device being tested. AS4950 features a PCI board that fits into any host system with full-height slot. Initial version supports ATM OC-3 and OC12; additional protocols including frame relay and xDSL available in fourth quarter.--Boeing Information & Communications Systems
Circle 360 for more information
HARDWARE
KEEP PACE WITH growing throughput demands of remote access and multi-user customers with the AccelePort Xr 920 intelligent asynchronous serial board. Provides up to 921.6 Kbps throughput for servers requiring remote access by connecting high-speed modems and/ or ISDN terminal adapters or serial connections for other high-speed peripheral devices. Available in 4- and 8-port versions; supports both PCI and ISA bus servers.--Digi International
Circle 341 for more information
FRAME RELAY
CLEVER FRAME RELAY MODEM provides dedicated 56 Kbps frame relay connection. InternetFramer.com desktop modem takes advantage of Internet Explorer's configuration parameters to connect to PC's COM port. Establishes point-to-point connection to host PC at up to 115 Kbps, then strips all PPP or SLIP overhead in order to maximize data throughput on 56 Kbps connection.--HT Comm
Circle 364 for more information
FAX
LONG-TIME DEPENDABLE LAN fax server from Cheyenne, FAXserve for NetWare has now been rewritten for NT. Fax services run on NT server and client software that integrates with any MAPI e-mail client on users' workstations, including Microsoft Exchange, Outlook, Novell GroupWise, and Lotus cc:Mail. Least Cost Routing option routes faxes to alternate servers across the Internet or private WAN.--Computer Associates
Circle 358 for more information
NETWORK MANAGEMENT
DEVELOP NETWORKING TOOLS with increased management and control functionality with SNMPv3 and AgentX enhancements to Epilogue product line. SNMPv3 provides increased authentication functionality to 'Net managed devices. AgentX enables SNMP sub-agent fragments in embedded Internet devices to be included in SNMP management chain.--Integrated Systems, Inc.
Circle 362 for more information
SECURITY
CENTRAL SITE FRAME RELAY encryptor for FastComm branch office routers and frame relay access devices features key management system. CryptoFRAD provides VPN security services for networks or subnets connected to frame relay WAN. Enables network managers to define and monitor VPN security policy for the enterprise.--FastComm Communications
Circle 349 for more information
CABLING/WIRING
FIBER OPTIC CABLING system introduces design features that reduce cost of installing fiber to the desktop. Volition Cabling System components include duplex interconnects, patch cords, media converters, patch panels, wall outlets, and termination kits.--3M
Circle 353 for more information
HUBS/SWITCHES/ROUTERS
GIGABIT ETHERNET campus LAN switch delivers 45 Gbps across the backplane into 7-slot chassis. LANBlazer 7000 includes RISC-based supervisor module providing web-based management for on-board diagnostics, VLAN support, RMON, SNMP, RSVP, and configuration utilities.--ODS Networks, Inc.
Circle 344 for more information
RELATED ARTICLE: NEW PRODUCTS
FILE DISTRIBUTION
BROWSER-BASED FILE distribution software uses Web page for download, version control. NobleNet Web 2.0 reduces application distribution costs, guarantees file transfer integrity. Automatically download sealed packages, verify and open security seal, install and launch application client. Facilitates trade-off decision-making on issues such as centralized vs. user control, mandatory vs. incremental updating, network bandwidth utilization. 16-, 32-bit versions.--NobleNet
Circle 373 for more information
NETWORK MANAGEMENT
TRACK NETWORK ERRORS, graphically map LAN/WAN, monitor bandwidth, set triggers, and alarms with Observer 4.5 software-only, 32-bit protocol analyzer and trouble-shooting tool. Includes NDIS drivers that receive error packs and report sources. Reports up-times, response times for polled stations, sends alarms if stations go down or if response times are outside configurable boundaries.--Network Instruments, LLC
Circle 371 for more information
MEASURE NETWORK RESPONSE time end-to-end to see how new devices and applications will affect existing structure. Allows benchmarking and stress testing in multi-protocol environments. Can measure performance to support service-level agreements with end-users.--Ganymede Software, Inc.
Circle 372 for more information
FIBER OPTICS
SIECOR DESIGN GUIDE for fiber optic network cabling features how to successfully, strategically integrate optical fiber into premises communication networks. Logical chapter sequences feature preliminary and installation considerations; fiber type and performance; splicing, connecting, terminating methods; connecting hardware and outlets; testing and documentation. Each chapter contains design considerations as well as recommended standards and procedures. Call for guide: 1-800-743-2675.--Siecor Corp.
Circle 374 for more information
HUBS/SWITCHES/ROUTERS
COMPACT 10BASE-T ETHERNET MICROHUB (TP1008C) features eight RJ-45 ports supporting 10BASE-T STP or UTP cables. Eighth port can function as uplink switch for easy hub cas cading. Additional BNC port allows hub cascading to coaxial backbone using Thin Ethernet cables for 30 cascaded hubs max. Jabber Auto-Partitioning and Packet Reconditioning function monitors each port's signal quality, automatically disconnects device exhibiting excessive collisions. Device reconnects when error condition is rectified.--Compex, Inc.
Circle 369 for more information
PORT SWITCHING HUB features intuitive Web-based management, router network support, enhanced security. SegWay Adaptive Micro-segmentable Hub includes intuitive graphical interface for showing front, back panels of SegWay stack to check hub status, reconfigure, make moves, adds, changes. Password protected. LinkALERT feature translates faults from one medium to another while monitoring 100% of physical uplink, downlink failures.--LANart Corp.
Circle 370 for more information
