Intelligent Micro Software Ltd is to launch a network operating system for customers that want to combine local area nets with multi-user systems. Called DOS 386 Professional, the software links any combination of MS-DOS-based servers, workstations, dumb terminals and peripherals such as printers. Multi-user systems consist of a central server with dumb terminals attached and are therefore much cheaper than local area nets. But because dumb terminals rely on remote processors, they support only text and so cannot be used for running any applications with graphics, such as spreadsheets. Intelligent Micro says the system would be useful for organisations that want to run text packages, such as databases or accounts packages cheaply, while using personal computers to run graphics or screen intensive applications. Office integration features include internal electronic mail, status-line messaging, diary sharing and printer sharing. However, although files can be shared between workstations, they cannot be shared between terminals and workstations. Customised menus, restricting users to files they are authorised to access are part of network security and the system also offers multi-tasking capabilities, enabling users to run four applications simultaneously. The drawback with this feature is again the lack of graphics – there are no windows facilities to view the different applications, so users have to switch between them. The applications may be running locally on the processor, or accessed from various servers on the network. Single session access to Novell Inc’s NetWare is available and Camberley, Surrey-based Intelligent Micro Software says it is also working on TCP/IP capabilities.
