Unix International Inc’s Atlas approach to distributed computing includes both currently available and future technology, which Unix System Laboratories will supply as the framework for developing distributed applications running under Unix System V.4 (CI No 1,760). As well as conceding the distributed battleground to the Open Software Foundation’s Distributed Computing Environment, the Unix International camp has also finally recognised the OSF/Motif graphical user interface as an acceptable alternative to its Open Look flagship: Unix Labs says it has an application programming interface that produces an independent look and feel that encompasses both programs. Unix International says Atlas also provides a migration path to future object-oriented technology – it includes Tivoli Systems Inc’s object-based distributed systems management framework, which is also one of the strongly favoured candidates for inclusion in the Foundation’s Distributed Management Environment. Atlas will also encompass the DOMF – Distributed Object Management Framework – being developed by Sun Microsystems Inc and Hewlett-Packard Co. It manages the distribution of object across networks, and has also been endorsed by the Object Management Group, which will use DOMF, integrated with a range of other object technologies, as the basis of its Object Request Broker, which it hopes will become the standard for interconnecting heterogeneous object-oriented environments. Other technologies that Unix Labs will release for Atlas include seven-layer, X400 and X500 Open Systems Interconnection services being developed in conjunction with Retix Inc; an enhanced version of SunSoft’s Network File System; and a global Network Information Service naming system, also from SunSoft. It is not yet clear how, or when, the integration of this plethora of technology can be completed: the only release schedules offered are phased stages through 1992 and 1993. However the eventual availability of all of these depends on Unix International being able to agree acceptable pricing and licensing terms with the firms and organisations involved. Atlas-compliant reference technologies that are, or will, become available from Unix Labs this year include the enhanced security and multi-processing versions of Unix – System V.4.1 ES and System V.4.0 MP, the latter available in the fourth quarter the Tuxedo System/T transaction processing monitor, an interim Open Systems Interconnection implementation, existing Network File System file management services, C++ and personal computer-to-Unix integration. All interface specifications for Atlas components will be available from Unix International, which accompanied the announcement with a raft of endorsements from its member firms.
