IBM UK Ltd has added a new low-end model to its 3745 family of communications processors. The Model 160, manufactured at the Havant, Hampshire-based plant, is a link-attached entry model for SNA routing and data traffic concentration, and it will act as an Advanced Peer-to-Peer Network Node. It offers full 3745 function and is field-upgradeable to the Model 170. The base includes a central control unit with 4Mb memory and a selectable transmission adaptor. The four base options include a low-speed line scanner; a high-speed scanner; a Token-Ring and an Ethernet adaptor. Also, the Model 160 supports up to two Air Line Control scanners. The controller is packaged in the same frame as a Model 170, and uses the same logic cards and power subsystem as Models 130, 150 and 170. IBM says that it is a cost-effective replacement to the 3725 and 3720s installed as link-attached controllers – subject to memory restrictions. Model 160 is claimed to offer an improved transaction processing time – by a factor of three over the 3720 and 1.4 over the 3725. Also, with up to 8Mb memory, it supports twice as many stations as the 3720. In conjunction with ACF/NCP Version 6, the Model 160 should support future VTAM/NCP/NetView enhancements. It will ship April 24 without the Ethernet Adaptor, September 25 for a fully configured and upgradeable model. It costs from UKP18,122.
