To: Ibexx who wrote (48985 ) 2/27/1998 9:03:00 AM From: greenspirit Read Replies (1) | Respond to of 186894
Ibexx, Article...Compaq and Intel deliver on commitment to accelerate networking standards and technology... February 27, 1998 M2 PRESSWIRE via NewsEdge Corporation : Compaq unveils first Compaq/Intel compatible NICs; Companies establish driver compatibility to simplify networking Working to simplify customer's networking needs by driving open industry standards, Compaq Computer Corporation (NYSE: CPQ) today announced two new network interface cards (NICs) -- the first products resulting from its recently formed technology alliance(1) with Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC). The intent of the alliance is to reduce networking complexity by developing industry standards and accelerating the deployment of new networking technologies. Compaq's new NICs, the Netelligent 10/100 TX PCI with Intel UTP Controller(2) and 10 T PCI with Intel UTP Controller(3) are available immediately. Additionally, the company will soon begin shipping LAN on motherboard solutions for Compaq commercial desktops. These product lines are driver compatible with Intel NICs and LAN on motherboard. Intel driver compatibility allows customers who standardize on the Intel compatible drivers to deploy a common driver across the entire network, reducing the complexity of new PCs and NICs. Now, customers can purchase an Ethernet or Fast Ethernet solution from either company, and the solutions will be fully software compatible with Intel drivers. Driver compatibility is part of the building blocks for both companies' networking products. "The Compaq/Intel Fast Ethernet driver set will become the de facto standard for high-speed network connectivity," said Alan Lutz, Senior Vice President and Group General Manager, Communication Products Group, Compaq Computer Corporation. "When visionary companies such as Compaq and Intel pool resources to make networking technology simple and interoperable, it alters the landscape of the networking market. Our driver compatible NIC is the next step on the road to seamless, cost-effective networking, whether it be across the hall or around the globe." "We are combining the networking strengths of both companies by taking advantage of Compaq's system architecture and channel strength along with Intel's leadership in silicon and technology to provide advanced networking solutions for a more manageable computing experience," said Frank Gill, Intel Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Small Business and Networking Group. The new Compaq NICs, a part of the company's Netelligent product line, provide high-performance and feature-rich functionality. Boasting total Intel driver compatibility, the Netelligent 10/100 TX PCI with Intel UTP Controller and 10 T PCI with Intel UTP are bus-mastering and provide self-tuning for performance demands, and a Network Fault Tolerance capability for redundancy. Additionally, the 10/100 TX PCI with Intel UTP Controller is auto-negotiating, ideal for Ethernet to Fast Ethernet environments. Compaq also announced today that it has chosen Intel silicon and base driver as the recommended choice for the Compaq build-to-order (BTO) and configure-to- order (CTO) programs. Compaq will continue to engage in technology licensing, cooperative engineering and product development with Intel to generate more affordable and efficient networks for IT managers. The company anticipates further announcements from collaborations with Intel over the next few months on PCI Hot Plug and Gigabit Ethernet technology. The companies will also work throughout the year towards the advancement of additional technologies. Price, Availability and Warranty The 10/100 TX PCI with Intel UTP Controller is priced at $80.00(4) in bulk packs. Both products are available in (NORTH AMERICA) and are supported by a limited lifetime warranty(5). Technical support is provided through Compaq Technical Support Centers worldwide. Service is provided through VARs (value added resellers) on a local, regional or global basis. ______________________________________________________________________ Michael