home
***
CD-ROM
|
disk
|
FTP
|
other
***
search
/
High Voltage Shareware
/
high1.zip
/
high1
/
DIR21
/
LANCMP.ZIP
/
W4WCOMP.TXT
< prev
Wrap
Text File
|
1992-11-30
|
46KB
|
1,368 lines
A COMPARISON DOCUMENT
The LANtastic(r) Network Operating System
Microsoft(r) Windows for Workgroups
Novell(r) NetWare Lite(tm)
And sales guide for the LANtastic Network Operating System
November 1992
Table of Contents
Part 1 Microsoft Windows for Workgroups, A comparison....................3
Part 2 Novell NetWare Lite 1.1, A comparison............................11
Part 3 The Artisoft LANtastic Network Operating System, a Sales Guide...17
Part 4 Glossary.........................................................36
Part 1
Microsoft
Windows for Workgroups
A comparison
What they're saying about the LANtastic system
vs.
Windows for Workgroups software
In the October 5, 1992 issue of PC Week, John McCarthy, director of
Forrester Research, Inc., says of Windows for Workgroups: "They don't
have a hope in hell of replacing LANtastic.... They don't have the
distribution or support."
In the September 28, 1992 issue, InfoWorld wrote that upgrading to PCs
that can effectively run a Windows-compatible program can be a costly
undertaking.
"But when considering the cost of added hardware, software, and -
perhaps most importantly - training and support, the consensus
among micro managers interviewed recently was that costs can range
from $2,000 to $3,000 per user."
Percentage of PC users, by processor type, who use Windows for one or
more applications.
286 Based PC users 30%
386 Based PC users 50%
486 Based PC users 60%
(Source: InfoCorp Computer Intelligence)
"LANtastic's strength is [its ability to work on] any kind of DOS machine
with any sort of processing power," said Richard Kimball, managing
director, Montgomery Securities, Inc., a San Francisco investment bank, as
quoted in PC Week, August 24, 1992.
"A simple-to-use fully powered network is more often than not a
contradiction in terms. But in the case of LANtastic for Windows, a
graphical user interface for LANtastic users, the terminology fits....
By extending the power of Microsoft's application-to-application
protocol - DDE (dynamic data exchange) - across the network, LANtastic
for Windows can be thought of almost as an extension of Windows, as
opposed to just an add-on for LANtastic."
PC Magazine, January 14, 1992
A peer-to-peer comparison
* With Windows for Workgroups, a computer must be a 386 to be
configured as a server.
* On a LANtastic network, any PC, from an XT up, can be a server.
* Windows for Workgroups will only run under Windows.
* LANtastic will run under Windows or in DOS, all on the same
network.
Richard Kimball said in PC Week, August 24, 1992, that because of the
limited peer support for DOS users, he doesn't see Windows for
Workgroups as a threat to Artisoft's LANtastic, the leading peer operating
system.
* With Windows for Workgroups, DOS machines can only be
workstations and cannot share resources with the network.
"And under Windows for Workgroups, a DOS machine
can only be a client; it will not be able to share data with
other machines, which prevents Windows for Workgroups
from accommodating mixed environments well.... In
cases of mixed networks - Windows for Workgroups will
not be the preferred solution."
Jamie Lewis, PC Week, August 24, 1992
* On LANtastic, any machine, including DOS based, can be a server
and share resources.
* With Windows for Workgroups, e-mail works only within the work
group designated during installation. To connect outside the work
group, you must have Microsoft Mail, an add-on. Users need to
upgrade to a full Mail post office and then purchase a copy of MS
Mail Remote for each person who needs dial-in access.
* LANtastic e-mail works throughout the entire network
* With Windows for Workgroups, the redirector requires 42K in basic
mode and 82K in advanced mode
* The LANtastic redirector requires 17K. Period.
* With Windows for Workgroups, in standard-mode configuration, the
network device drivers must reside in conventional memory. A 286
runs only in standard mode.
* With LANtastic, device drivers can be loaded in high memory, even
on a 286.
* Windows for Workgroups is not a truly peer-to-peer network
operating system because only 386 and 486 machines can be
servers; 8088 and 286 machines cannot be configured as servers.
* On a LANtastic network, any machine can be a server or a
workstation, or both. LANtastic is truly a peer-to-peer network.
* Windows for Workgroups uses NDIS version 2.01, but NDIS version
3.0 is going to be used in Windows NT. It appears that Microsoft will
cripple Workgroups the same way Novell crippled its NetWare Lite.
* LANtastic is the only network operating system manufactured by
Artisoft. We put everything we have into it, and we don't plan to
cripple it, cannibalize it or let it become obsolete.
* With Windows for Workgroups, the DOS workstation "Workgroup
Connection" takes 90K of RAM and 1MB of disk space.
* LANtastic workstations use only 13K of RAM.
* With Windows for Workgroups, DOS workstations do not support
NetWarer connectivity.
* LANtastic for NetWare software will run DOS servers or workstations
on NetWare.
* Windows for Workgroups does not support dial-up access to the
network.
* The LANtastic system supports dial-up access through our Central
Station(tm) connectivity processor and its Dial-up StationWare(tm).
* Security on Windows for Workgroups is minimal. The only levels are
no access, complete access or read-only access.
* LANtastic has 12 levels of security with a sophisticated auditing and
username-password feature to bar unauthorized employees from
system management features.
* With Windows for Workgroups, DOS workstations require 1MB of
disk space and Windows servers require 9.5 MB of disk space.
Neither platform supports a diskless workstation.
* LANtastic supports diskless workstations, which are extremely useful
where tight security is imperative.
* With Windows for Workgroups, there is no TCP/IP connectivity unless
Workgroups goes through Microsoft LAN Manager.
* LANtastic for TCP/IP gives workstation access to host computers on
a TCP/IP network, including DEC, HPr and Sunr workstations, IBMr
mainframes, and AT&Tr and NCRr minicomputers.
* Microsoft has stated that "New PC-based solutions must leverage
customer investments, not make them obsolete."(1) And yet, Windows
for Workgroups makes XTs and ATs obsolete.
* LANtastic will run on any PC, from an XT on up, because Artisoft is
committed to the whole network.
Windows for Workgroup suggested retail prices (2)
To add to DOS machines (Windows-capable)
* $249.95 per node for Windows for Workgroups, with no hardware
* $849.95 for starter kit: software, hardware, cable, T-connectors,
terminators for two systems, installation video, screwdriver
* $424.95 per node for the software/hardware addition
Upgrade fees for Windows 3.1 users
* $99.95 one-user software
* $399.95 four licenses, software only
* $549.95 starter kit, does not include Windows 3.1, as above
* $274.95 one-node add-on for software and hardware
* Windows 3.0 user upgrade fee, $149.95 for software only
To add DOS workstations (non-Windows)
* DOS-only machines on Windows for Workgroup network use
Workgroup Connection software, priced at $79.95 for software only.
Artisoft's lower-cost solutions
* $99 for LANtastic Network Operating System software, 300-user
license
* LANtastic for Windows utility upgrade is currently $99 for a 300-user
license
* $699 for the AE-2(tm) Starter Kit, which includes a 300-user license,
software, two AE-2 adapter cards and cable
* $799 for the AE-2 Windows starter kit, 300-user integrated LANtastic
for Windows license, software, two AE-2 adapter cards and cable
Part 2
Novell
NetWare Lite 1.1
A comparison
What they're saying about the LANtastic system vs. the NetWare Lite 1.1 system
"...Lite 1.1 was slower than Artisoft, Inc.'s LANtastic 4.1,
one of the leading peer-to-peer LAN operating systems."
PC Week First Looks, August 10, 1992
"The LANtastic package includes LANcache, a disk-caching program
that you can configure to use extended, expanded, or conventional
memory. LANcache is one of the fastest disk-caching programs for
networks available today."
PC Magazine, April 14, 1992
"Unfortunately, Lite 1.1 still leaves much room for improvement,
particularly in the area of security and coexistence with conventional
NetWare LANs."
PC Week First Looks, August 10, 1992
A peer-to-peer comparison
* NetWare Lite 1.1 security levels are only "no access," "complete
access" or "read-only" access.
* LANtastic offers 12 levels of security to each user or user group
connected to a server.
* NetWare Lite 1.1 offers no e-mail package
* LANtastic e-mail (built-in) puts a stop to the excess paper of inter-
office memos and to walking across the office to deliver a message to
a co-worker.
* Lite is not compatible with TCP/IP, Macintoshr or other operating
systems. To reach one of these platforms, Lite must be tied into
NetWare 2.x or 3.x software.
* LANtastic for TCP/IP, LANtastic for Macintosh and LANtastic for
NetWare software provide the vehicles necessary to connect with
other major network operating systems.
* Lite has no Windows GUI interface
* The LANtastic for Windows utility puts the power and simplicity of
the LANtastic Network Operating System into the ease of the
Windows GUI interface.
"Artisoft takes LANtastic - its popular $99 peer-to-peer
network known for its ease of use and fast performance
- and with a special front-end, tightly integrates it with
the Windows environment."
PC Magazine, January 14, 1992
"NetWare Lite is a joke. It is difficult - if not impossible
- to get NetWare Lite to work with Windows."
InfoWorld, September 28, 1992
* NetWare Lite 1.1 does not support uninterruptible power supplies
(UPS).
* LANtastic supports UPS, and we certify its compatibility with both
American Power Conversion and Tripp-Lite.
* NetWare Lite 1.1 does not support voice mail or Voice Chat.
* Adding an Artisoft Sounding Board(tm) adapter gives users the capability
of voice mail and real-time voice chat. Sounding Board also supports
Windows Object Linking and Embedding (OLE) for adding voice
annotations to Windows applications that support OLE.
* If they want to share COM ports, Lite users must upgrade to NetWare
2.x or 3.x and purchase NetWare Asynchronous Communications
Server (NACS) software for installation on a dedicated server.
* To share COM ports and modems across the network, LANtastic
users simply install optional ArtiCom(tm) modem-sharing software. They
don't have to upgrade to a more expensive operating system,
disrupting daily operations in the process.
* For network dial-up access, a Lite user must upgrade to NetWare 2.x
or 3.x and purchase NACS software.
* A LANtastic user adds a Central Station connectivity processor,
which includes a dial-up utility.
* NetWare Lite does not support remote booting. All users must have at
least a floppy drive to gain access to the network.
* All Artisoft cards (except AE-1/T(tm))support the addition of a boot
ROM to allow diskless workstations, a major security consideration.
* NetWare Lite 1.1 supports only 25 users. To go beyond 25, users
must purchase an upgrade to NetWare 2.x or 3.x.
* LANtastic comes with a 300-user license. There is no need to
upgrade to a more expensive network operating system. We put
every available option into LANtastic to make it the most powerful
peer-to-peer network on the market.
NetWare Lite users receive only 30 days of free technical support.
After the initial 30 days, technical support costs $20 per incident.
* Artisoft offers free and unlimited technical support to all registered
users and resellers for the life of the product.
* With NetWare Lite, CD-ROM drives are supported on the CD-ROM
servers only and are not accessible across the network.
* CD-ROM drives on LANtastic are accessible across the network, even
to diskless workstations. The CD-ROM drivers need only to be loaded
on the CD-ROM server. This is ideal for libraries or research
departments.
* Novell did not publish a new version of the manual with information
on the new features in version 1.1; the changes appear in a lengthy
READ.ME file on the installation disk.
* LANtastic documentation is complete, even when we release a new
version of our operating system.
"Some users said they had difficulty getting the upgrade
to work with existing hardware and software, saying
Novell should work to certify third-party products for use
with Lite."
PC Week, August 17, 1992
* NetWare Lite 1.1 does not have a formal third-party compatibility
program.
* Artisoft Labs support a comprehensive third-party testing and
compatibility program. More than 90 major third-party products are
certified or undergoing certification at this time, after which their
compatibility is supported by the Artisoft Technical Support
Department.
Part 3
Artisoft
LANtastic Network Operating System
Sales Guide
What makes the LANtastic system the leading peer-to-peer LAN
for DOS and Windows environments?
"LANtastic is simple and complete. The product is reliable, well-
supported, well priced, and it is easy to install and use...
Version 4.10 offers a slew of improvements to the command
line, menuing, and ease-of-use of the older versions, including
more flexible log-on capabilities and enhanced print-queue
control."
PC Magazine, April 14, 1992
The LANtastic Network Operating System is a full-featured LAN for IBM and
compatible PCs. Connecting from two PCs to 300, version 4.1 uses as little as
13K of RAM per workstation and 40K per server, which leaves room for the
most RAM-hungry applications. LANtastic enables businesses to share
expensive peripherals instead of duplicating them. Its peer-to-peer structure
means every computer can act as a file server and/or workstation, eliminating
expensive dedicated servers.
Show your customers what the LANtastic system can do for them by
explaining its features and pointing out how these features can help them in
their businesses.
Features:
* Delayed record locking
* One of the smallest RAM overheads in the industry
* LANcache(tm) software to boost network performance
* Multiple security levels
* Chat and e-mail features built into the operating system
* Sound capabilities for voice mail and Chat
* Built-in support for UPS
* Remote processing for system managers
* Remote booting capabilities for diskless workstations
* Immediate despooling of large printer files
* Simultaneous despooling to multiple printers
* CD-ROM support
* Support of DOS 3.1 file-and-record locking
* Full support for Microsoft Windows (real, standard and enhanced
modes)
* Audit trails to track network activity
* Resource caching
* New server management capabilities
* Ability to change username without logging out
LANtastic for Windows
A network utility that harnesses the power of the DOS-based LANtastic
operating system from within Windows' functional framework of pull-down
menus, icons and on-line help.
* Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE)
* Drag-and-drop and point-and-shoot features
* All NET and NET_MGR features available within the Windows GUI
* DOS-based machines run on the same network as Windows-based
machines.
* DOS machines can be workstations or servers.
* LANtastic (v4.0) was the first peer-to-peer network to operate in
Windows real, standard and enhanced modes.
"A simple-to-use fully powered network is more often
than not a contradiction in terms. But in the case of
LANtastic for Windows, a graphical user interface for
LANtastic users, the terminology fits.... By extending the
power of Microsoft's application-to-application protocol -
DDE (dynamic data exchange) - across the network,
LANtastic for Windows can be thought of almost as an
extension of Windows, as opposed to just an add-in for
LANtastic."
"First Looks," PC Magazine, January 14, 1992
Enhanced printer functions
* Print job display screen to show status of each job
* Estimate of start and finish times of jobs
* Notification of print job completion
* Immediate despooling of large files for quicker printing
"The most impressive new additions in LANtastic 4.10
are the improvements and features added to the LAN's
printing capabilities."
PC Magazine April 14, 1992
Memory
* Uses small amount of RAM in Windows or DOS-based versions
* Works on PCs with only 640K of RAM
* LANtastic files can be loaded high, using a memory manager or DOS
5.0
Management features
* Hot keys for shortcuts to the LANtastic 4.1 management menus
* More powerful command-line interface
* All management features available in Windows when using the
LANtastic for Windows utility
Performance
* Redesigned NetBIOS makes LANtastic v4.1 up to 30% faster than
previous versions
* Resource caching stores network management commands and file
look-ups in the server's RAM for faster operations.
* LANtastic's LANcache program caches both reads and writes for
faster network performance
"LANcache is one of the fastest disk-caching programs available today."
PC Magazine, April 14, 1992
* A LANtastic server will "remember" a user request for a record
already locked by another user. When the record is free, the next user
request is completed.
* Allows automatic login to servers without having to specify a user's
name or password each time
* One-command login to multiple servers
Multi-platform connectivity
* LANtastic for NetWare software brings the file and peripheral sharing
capabilities of LANtastic to a NetWare network.
* LANtastic for Macintosh software enables a dedicated gateway server
to transfer files and share PostScript(r) printers between an Apple
Talk(r) or Ether Talk(r) network and a LANtastic PC network.
* LANtastic for TCP/IP software connects any node on a LANtastic
network with any machine running TCP/IP.
* The LANtastic for Windows utility puts the power of LANtastic into
Windows' graphical user interface.
* LANtastic runs under DOS with the same powerful features as the
LANtastic for Windows version.
* The company is constantly evaluating other environments to
determine the best LANtastic solutions to meet future needs.
Hardware independence
* Artisoft is committed to support for all hardware platforms from
8088s to 486s.
* We believe a customer should not be forced to upgrade existing
computers in order to establish a local area network.
* We believe that customers should be able to take advantage of the
investments they have already made.
DOS superiority
* DOS machines can act as workstations or servers or both.
* True peer-to-peer networking
* Support of specific vertical applications that are totally DOS based
Features and Benefits
Feature: DOS-based, peer-to-peer network operating system
Benefit: Low cost, familiar, easy-to-use, no waste of PCs in an office
The LANtastic Network Operating System is the recognized leader in the
peer-to-peer market. As few as two or as many as 500 people in an office
share PCs and peripherals on a LANtastic network. Because a LANtastic
network uses some of the smallest amount of RAM in the industry, it leaves
more room to run other applications.
Feature: LANtastic is a fourth-generation product.
Benefit: Widely used, refined and bug-free
Because of enduser input, Artisoft has added features in subsequent
versions of the LANtastic system. Because we have released four prior
versions of our operating system, we have refined its operation and virtually
eliminated all bugs. We listen to people's comments and concerns and act
upon them.
Additions we have made to the LANtastic system include:
* Full Microsoft Windows support
* Support for uninterruptible power supply (UPS) on network servers
* Remote processing for system managers
* Individual and group account set-ups
* Simultaneous despooling to multiple printers
* Built-in support for CD-ROMs
* And much more
Feature: Easy to use and understand
Benefit: Employees need little training
Users who know DOS already know how to use the LANtastic system.
Installers can set up shortcuts for those not fully familiar with DOS. The
system includes on-line help in any menu. The easy-to-understand menu
system is intuitive in nature and powerful in features.
Feature: Artisoft's multi-product line
Benefit: Compatibility, add-ons, economy
Though the LANtastic Network Operating System is Artisoft's flagship
product, we also produce a full line of Ethernet adapters, a 10BASE-T
concentrator, add-on software packages that integrate the LANtastic system
into other environments, low-cost and easy-to-use proprietary 2Mbps
adapters and our latest and most versatile product, the Central Station
connectivity processor. Artisoft offers a low-cost solution for almost every
networking need, as well as one-stop shopping and one-stop technical
support.
Feature: Network security
Benefit: Highly sophisticated protection
The LANtastic system offers everything from passwords to time-of-day
logins and audit trails on the network. Use requires names and passwords
whenever logging into a server; improper keyboard entries result in denied
access. Time-of-day logins restrict use to business hours only, weekends
only or any variation desired for company security. Access control lists
determine who can read, write, delete; create and delete files and
directories; and many more options. Audit trails determine who and when
users try (successfully or not) to log into a computer. They also show what
users do when logged in - not only useful for security, but for billing
purposes, as well. Diskless workstations can also be supported. LANtastic
security rivals that of main-frame systems.
Artisoft began shipping version 4.1 of the LANtastic system in April 1992.
The new version has been very well received. Features added for version
4.1 include:
Feature: Redesigned NetBIOS
Benefit: Up to 30% faster than previous versions of LANtastic
The NetBIOS is the program responsible for transferring data between the
server and workstations. The redesigned NetBIOS transfers data more
efficiently for faster network operation.
Feature: Resource caching
Benefit: Speeds file lookups and file openings
Resource caching speeds file lookups and file openings by keeping access
information on the server's resources in memory. This means that the server
can rapidly read access control list information for each network resource
from RAM. This reduces the frequency with which the server needs to
check information on a hard disk before allowing or denying a user request.
Feature: Random-access caching
Benefit: Allows the server computer to search through files more quickly
Random-access caching's ability to search through files more quickly speeds
up access to data on the disk.
Feature: Delayed record locking
Benefit: Allows for more efficient work, saves users' time
A LANtastic server can hold onto a user request for a record already locked
by another user. When the first user finishes, the record unlocks, and the
second user's request is completed without further action on the second
user's part. Without delayed record locking, a request for a locked record is
denied, and the user has to request it again.
Feature: Automatic login to servers
Benefit: A user can log into a server without having to specify a username
or password each time.
Feature: Log into multiple servers with one command
Benefit: No need to separately log into each server for which the user is
authorized
Now you can log into a group of servers with one command. This saves
users from having to type multiple NET LOGIN commands and allows them
to create shorter batch files.
Feature: Improved printer queue display
Benefit: Users know exactly where a print job falls in the queue.
The screen now tells the status of a print job, the estimated time it will start
printing and when it will finish.
Feature: Hot keys to management menu items
Benefit: Quicker access to management features
LANtastic menus now include shortcut hot keys. To activate an option on
the menu, a user will simply press the letter key corresponding to the
highlighted letter in each command.
Feature: A user can change a "username" without logging out
Benefit: Less time and nuisance to login with different username
If a user has already logged into a server with his or her regular user
account, but needs to switch to a System Manager account to schedule a
server shutdown or other management functions, LANtastic version 4.1 lets
that user log into the server again, using a different account without having
to log out first. This means a user does not have to cancel, then re-
establish, printer and drive connections.
Market overview
The local area network (LAN) market is one of the fastest growing segments
in the computer industry.
* In 1991, LANs connected 54% of all PCs in the business world.(3)
* This number is projected to increase to 74% by 1995.
* Analysts expected sales of local area networking products to grow
$5.7 billion in 1989.
* They expect sales to grow by more than $17 billion by 1994.(4)
* Sales of the software portion (the network operating system) equal
10% to 15% of the entire computer market.
* In 1986, the network software market generated $108.3
million in sales.
* Analysts expect this figure to exceed $2 billion in 1995, a
compounded annual growth rate of more than 20 percent.(5)
Target market
* Small businesses sharing a few files and a printer between one or two
offices
* Medium-size businesses who need to share files and printers,
coordinate workgroup activities, maintain security of files and have
centralized files for easier administration
* Large businesses with many diverse goals and departments who need
a workgroup solution or have remote sites with the need for a low
maintenance, powerful network
* Vertical target markets include:
* Manufacturing
* Engineering
* Retail businesses
* Medical and dental offices
* Universities and educational institutions
* Accounting and law firms
* The U.S. government
The LANtastic Network Operating System market falls into two distinct
groups:
Small-to-medium businesses
Large businesses
Small-to-medium businesses
The LANtastic system is well suited for the small-to-medium business
because it:
* Is easy to install
* Will work on virtually any PC platform (XT, AT, 386, 486)
* Does not require the added expense of a dedicated server
* Does not require a system administrator
* Comes with a 300-user license per server, which allows easy and
inexpensive growth. (To expand a network, a user needs to buy only
an adapter card and cable for each new node, not another software
license.)
Large businesses
A LANtastic network brings flexibility to large businesses because it:
* Lets them set up work groups
* Interconnects with almost any other network operating system
* Gives department or division level groups the flexibility of sharing files
and network resources
* Connects to other corporate networks (through LANtastic for
Macintosh, LANtastic for NetWare and LANtastic for TCP/IP software)
* In cases where a company wants to preserve its hardware
investment, LANtastic/AI(tm) software can be installed for sites
upgrading to a LANtastic system from another network operating
system.
* LANtastic can be a complete network solution because it:
* Has sophisticated security features such as:
* Password login
* Password protected NET_MGR and ALONE programs
* Detailed resource access rights for users or groups of
users
* Automatic password renewal feature
* Specific day or time-of-day access rights
* Access control list for each resource
* Has extensive network management features such as:
* Audit trails to track network activity
* Hot keys for shortcuts to the management menus
* Powerful command line interface
* Alone feature for dedicated server operation
* Support for virtually all PC-compatible hardware
platforms
* Server optimization features for ultimate performance
* Serves as a sophisticated remote site network solution
* Has the simplicity and ease of operation to not require a
systems administrator
* Companies worldwide use the LANtastic system, which has been
released in:
* English
* German
* Italian
* Spanish
* French
* Japanese
Support for sales channels
The Artisoft Business Development Group (BDG)
Business Development Group representatives (BDGs) support our resellers in
sales and technical areas. They also support user groups and special interest
groups (SIGs).
BDG representatives are located in the United States and Canada, where
they
* Offer marketing support and assistance
* Offer training support
* Assist at or give training seminars to your customers
* Accompany you on major account sales calls, if desired
Distribution channels
"The combination of turnkey solutions and attentiveness to the
needs of VARs have helped (Artisoft) build a strong channel
that will be unlikely to buckle under new market pressures."
Computer Reseller News, NetWorld edition, October 13, 1992
* Artisoft has a strong record in channel support.
* We have approximately 29,000 resellers (up from 4,000 in 1989).
* More than 500 are Artisoft Authorized Five StarSM resellers.
* We maintain mature reseller support programs, which include:
* Field support representatives located throughout North America
* MCI Mail lead-referral program
* Dedicated toll-free number for Artisoft Five Star reseller
technical support
* GSA & educational programs
* RAM-O-GRAM monthly reseller newsletter
* National sales contest
* ArtiBucks co-op program
* Artisoft training manuals and videos
* "Tech Talk" advanced technical training seminars
* Artisoft LAN Van road shows throughout the United States
* Artisoft offers one of the best distribution models in the industry.
* We have carefully selected the right combination of international,
national and multi-regional distributors.
* We provide resellers with a superb choice of locations, programs and
benefits.
* While you can always buy directly from Artisoft, our distribution
partners bring you highly competitive pricing, free shipping based on
sales volume, co-op advertising and rewarding spiff and promotional
programs.
Authorized Distributors as of October 1, 1992
Distributor
U.S.
Western Canada
Eastern Canada
Gates, F.A.
1-800-332-2222
Ingram Micro*
1-800-456-8000
1-800-668-3450
1-800-668-3450
Liuski Internat'l.
1-516-454-8220
Merisel*
1-800-MERISEL
1-800-268-1220
1-800-268-1220
Tech Data*
1-800-237-8931
1-800-663-0968
1-800-668-5588
TRACS
1-416-940-6205
1-416-940-6205
Vitek Systems
1-800-366-6655
*Products available in some international markets; please call for information.
Industry recognition
In the spring of 1992, Business Week named Artisoft the "No. 1 Hot
Growth Company" of the year only six months after we went public.
Inc. Magazine placed us in the top 500 privately held companies three years
in a row.
Inc. Magazine put us 56 on the list of 100 top publicly held small
businesses.
During the past four years, Artisoft has claimed numerous major industry
awards
1992 Computer Reseller News Editors' Choice
1992 PC World Best Buy
1992 PC Magazine Editors' Choice Award for LANtastic System 4.1
1992 LAN Times Readers Choice for LANtastic System 4.1
1992 LAN Magazine Product of the Year for Entry-level Network Operating
Systems
1991 Best of 1991 from PC Magazine for the AE-3r adapter
1991 PC World World Class Award for the AE-2 adapter
1991 Best of Spring Award for Connectivity, COMDEX, Byte Magazine for
Artisoft's Central Station connectivity processor. The Interface Group
award for the Central Station connectivity processor
1991 PC Magazine Editors' Choice for DOS-based networks
1991 LAN Times Readers Choice Award
1991 LAN Magazine Product of the Year Award
1990 PC Magazine Award for Technical Excellence/Communications for the
LANtastic Voice Adapter (now known as the Sounding Board adapter)
1990 PC Magazine Editors' Choice for DOS-based networks
1990 PC Magazine Editors' Choice for the LANtastic CD-ROM networking
capabilities
1990 PC Magazine Editors' Choice for LANtastic Z(tm), a serial/parallel port
version of the LANtastic system
1990 LAN Magazine Product of the Year
1990 LAN Times Readers Choice Award
1990 LAN Times Recommended for Networking Award
1989 PC Magazine Editors' Choice for low-cost LANs
1989 PC World Best Buy for low-cost LANs
1988 PC Magazine Technical Excellence Nomination
1988 BYTE Magazine Award of Distinction
1988 LAN Magazine Product of the Year for The Network Eyer software
Artisoft's growth
Artisoft began in 1982, producing communications and peripheral-sharing
devices. After the introduction of the LANtastic Network Operating System
at COMDEX in the fall of 1987, Artisoft's size and sales mushroomed.
Sales growth:
1988 - 2.2 Million
1989 - 6.6 Million
1990 - 21 Million
1991 - 41 Million
1992 - 73 Million
Employee Growth
* Twelve employees in 1988
* More than 500 in 1992
* Offices in Tucson, San Diego, Chicago, the Netherlands, France,
Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan and Mexico
Artisoft Customer Care
* Free, unlimited technical support to registered owners and resellers
* An unconditional money-back guarantee on all Artisoft hardware
* Five-year limited warranty on all Artisoft hardware
* A 30-day money-back guarantee on all Artisoft products
To order any Artisoft product, call 1-800-TINY RAM.
ARTISOFT INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
691 East River Road
Tucson, AZ 85704 USA
Sales/Customer service 1-800-TINY RAM
Technical Support 1-602-293-6363
Headquarters 1-602-293-4000
Fax 1-602-293-8065
Offices in the Netherlands, France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom,
Australia, Japan and Mexico.
Glossary of Terms
Access method - A set of rules used by LAN hardware to direct traffic on the network, it
determines which workstation will be next to use the LAN. It also distinguishes the various
hardware types by governing electrical access to the cable that affects the LAN's features
and performance. ARCNET, Token Ring and CSMA (Ethernet) are all access methods.
Adapter card - Also called interface card, it is a printed circuit board that fits in the
expansion chassis of a computer. Adapter cards physically connect the computer to the LAN
cable and are responsible for getting raw bits of data from the computer onto the network
cable.
Application program - Software that carries out some useful task (word processing, data
bases, spreadsheets, etc.) for the user. (Application programs differ from system software
such as DOS, which is the software used by the computer itself to accomplish tasks for the
application program.
ARCNET - (Attached Resource Computer Network) A communications standard that
employs a token-passing protocol and star topology, transmits data at 2.5Mbps and
supports up to 256 nodes.
Audit trail - A record of events taking place on the network. It is used to track who uses
what resources, at what time, for what reason. A valuable management tool for security
and/or billing.
Binary file - A computer-generated file that employs the binary numbering system. A binary
number allows only two values 0 and 1 (on/off). Most computers store information in binary
form.
Buffer - A temporary holding area for data until it can be accepted for processing.
Cable - The transmission medium that connects computers on a LAN. Cable can be of
different types: twisted-pair, fiber optic, coaxial, etc.
Cache - A separate memory location that stores frequently used data, thereby improving
system performance.
Centralized network - A network that requires a dedicated file server (or servers) that cannot
be used as workstations. The server's sole duty is to fulfill network requests.
Coaxial - Electrical cable in which a solid piece of metal wire is surrounded by insulation and
then by tubular metal whose axis of curvature coincides with the center of the piece of wire.
Coaxial cable is more difficult to install and usually more expensive than twisted-pair.
CPU - Central processing unit; the primary microprocessor chip in a PC.
CSMA - Carrier Sense Multiple Access; signifying the method that nodes employ to
communicate. In CSMA/CA (Collision Avoidance) the sending node asks permission from the
intended receiver to send data; if the receiving node responds affirmatively, transmission
takes place. In CSMA/CD (Collision Detection), nodes transmit at will; if a collision occurs,
each workstation will re-transmit at varied, preset time intervals. Ethernet networks employ
the CSMA/CD protocol.
DMA - Direct memory access. A fast method of moving data from a storage device or LAN
adapter card directly to RAM. DMA speeds processing.
Driver - A piece of software that expands DOS's ability to work with network hardware and
software. It tells DOS how to operate such things as logical drives, shared printers, spoolers
and print queues.
E-mail - Electronic mail. A message system on a LAN, which allows users to write messages
and send them to others on the network. Computer files can also be sent via e-mail.
Ethernet - A communications standard developed by Xerox and later standardized by the
IEEE (standard 802.3). The most popular LAN standard, Ethernet transmits data at 10
Megabits per second (Mbps) and can be used with thin or thick coaxial, fiber optic or
twisted-pair cabling. Often used in government, educational and scientific environments.
File-and-record locking - Data management method that reserves files and records for the
first user to request them, thus locking out all others, which is crucial in multi-user LAN
applications.
Hub - A hardware device that is the center of a star topology network. Servers can also act
as a Hub of a LAN.
IEEE - Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers. The IEEE is a publishing and standard-
setting body responsible for many LAN procedures and protocols.
IEEE 802.3 - A standard specifying a LAN using CSMA/CD (Ethernet). The actual standard
would be read IEEE 802.3 10BASE2 or 10BASE5 or 10BASE-T.
IEEE 802.5 - A standard specifying a LAN that uses a token-passing method on a ring
topology (e.g. Token Ring).
I/O port - Doorways through which information passes as it travels to or from an input-
output device.
Interface software - Procedures, codes and protocols that enable two devices to interact.
Interface software such as NetBIOS enables a network operating system to communicate
with an adapter card.
IRQ - Interrupt request line. A communications channel by which devices interrupt a PC's
microprocessor. A network request gets the servers attention through an IRQ.
Logical devices - Disk drives and printers recognized by a system, although not physically
present in the system. These devices are remote and differ from physical devices located on
the workstation itself.
Memory resident - Also called terminate-and-stay resident programs (TSR). These programs
are executed and usually remain in the computer's RAM until the computer is rebooted.
Network software is memory resident.
NetBIOS - Network basic input/output system. A network interface software that
communicates operations from the network operating system to the network hardware.
Protocol - An entire set of rules for network communications between computers. These
rules govern format, timing, sequencing and error control.
Physical devices - Devices such as drives, modems and printers, which are physically
located on a workstation, as opposed to logical devices.
Queue - A line of tasks, such as print jobs or messages, waiting to be serviced. A task
waiting in a queue can be assigned a priority, so that more important jobs can be executed
before those less critical.
Server - A computer providing service to LAN workstations and responsible for
accommodating network requests. Also refers to the software program that allows the
computer to share its resources.
Token ring - An access method where a token (electrical signal) is passed from workstation
to workstation. The token carries a node's request around the LAN, delivering it to the node
with the proper address. ARCNET and Token Ring networks use this method of access.
Topology - Description of the physical layout of a network, akin to a map of the "road"
between computers connected on a LAN. Common topologies include bus, ring, star and
tree.
Twisted-pair - Two insulated wires twisted around each other, this type of wire is often
used to connect telephones, terminals and computers. The wire may be surrounded by a
shield, a jacket, some other type of insulation, or by other wires. Although unshielded
twisted-pair wire is susceptible to electromagnetic interference, it is easy to install and less
expensive than coaxial cable.
Workstation - A computer used to gain access to a network server. Often inexpensive
because it uses the resources, such as drives and printers, of network servers. Refers as
well to a network program that redirects requests to a server. A workstation is also known
as a node, a redirector or a requester.
c1992 ARTISOFT, INC. All rights reserved. Artisoft, ArtiCom, AE-1, AE-2, Central Station,
LANcache, LANtastic/AI, LANtastic Z, Sounding Board and StationWare are trademarks;
Artisoft Authorized Five Star is a service mark; and LANtastic, AE-3 and The Network Eye
are registered trademarks of Artisoft, Inc. Macintosh is a registered trademark of Apple
Computer, Inc. Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation. NetWare is a registered
trademark of Novell, Inc. Other company names, brand names and product names are the
trademarks and/or the property of their respective companies. Specifications subject to
change without notice.
(1) Quoted from The Microsoft Systems Strategy: Windows
(2) Pre-release pricing may change prior to actual shipping date,
according to Microsoft's Windows for Workgroups Technical
Presentation to resellers, 9/92.
(3) IDC 1992 NIC Market Analysis, May 1992
(4) Ibid.
(5) Frost & Sullivan Computer Technology Review, December 1, 1991.