US Robotics Inc, the Skokie, Illinois company whose high-tech name conceals a modem maker, has launched the second phase of its local network communications strategy with two new products in its Shared Access range, which enable dial-up remote access to local networks. The local network modem for Ethernet is a stand-alone two-port network V.32bis modem which attaches directly to the local network, so that multiple local network users can dial out to remote services. Remote users can also dial in to access files and applications on the local network, either through single line routing or through remote control methods. The Communications Server 386 for Ethernet is basically the same as the local network modem for Ethernet, but with a built-in 80386 processor. This removes the need for a dedicated communications server and also, according to the company, saves transmission costs by enabling remote applications to be run on the internal processor. Both products are based on US Robotics’ V.32bis modem and can be upgraded via a board change. Both are claimed to work on any IPX-based or NetBIOS local network supporting NetWare and LAN Manager. The local network modem costs UKP1,000, while the Communications Server 386 is UKP1,300. Both are available now. Token Ring versions are planned for later this year, and the company says that later versions will be TCP/IP-compatible.
