---------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Florida SunFlash Third Party Hardware and Software Announcements SunFLASH Vol 36 #8 December 1991 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Qualix: M++ Object-Oriented Solution to Numeric Computation Lotus: OPEN LOOK Interface for Lotus 1-2-3 for Sun Qualix: Introducing SpeedStor (Hard Driver manager) Microplex: TCP/IP Printer Adapter Qualix: Xv++ -- A C++ class interface to XView -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Subject: Announcing M++ Object-Oriented Solution to Numeric Computation From: toms@qualix.com (Tom Stuart) M++: Fast, Simple to use, Extensible M++ is a complete, standardized array language extension to C++. Unlike C or Fortran, C++ is a language that is designed to be extended. If you are still using Fortran-based numeric computation libraries, you are spending too much time programming. 20:1 improvement over Fortran or C-based solutions! Compatible with Industry Standards M++ uses industry standard computation algorithms like LINPAC and EISPAC so your results won't change when you convert an application from IMSL or NAG to M++. M++ also provides complete array function support for the Numeric C Extensions Group (NCEG) functions. Advanced Features Unlike other dynamic array libraries for C++, M++ supports arrays of up to four dimensions instead of just two. M++ arrays support integer, floating point, and complex values. The base for the array can be either 0 or 1, and M++ prevents most attempts to select values outside the bounds of the array. The standard M++ class library supports advanced array manipulation, linear algebra, eigensystem analysis, matrix factorization, and simple statistical operations. M++ Modules Additional M++ modules can be purchased for your specialized needs. The M++ modules now available include: o M++ LSM - generates least squares estimates of linear and non-linear models. Allows linear and non-linear regression. o M++ Optim - optimization of arbitrary functions. o M++ Sum - advanced statistical analysis, including F, t and chi-squared tests and their inverses. Also includes incomplete beta methods, incomplete gamma methods, and error function integrals. o M++ Test - a test suite for the M++ system. Allows you to check for correct operation under new compilers, compiler configurations, or compiler updates. All M++ modules require the basic M++ class library to run. Qualix Group, Inc. 1900 South Norfolk, Suite 224 San Mateo, CA 94403 Phone: 415/572-0200; Fax: 415/572-1300 Email: info@qualix.com -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Subject: Lotus Announced OPEN LOOK Interface for Lotus 1-2-3 for Sun CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Oct. 30, 1991 -- Lotus Development Corp. today announced the OPEN LOOK Interface for Lotus 1-2-3 for Sun SPARC Systems Version 1.1 providing mouse support, an icon bar, pull-down menus and dialog boxes for the spreadsheet running under the OPEN LOOK Window Manager. The interface incorporates graphical features consistent with the OPEN LOOK standard and provides character mode functionality for customer operating in the SunView window environment. Lotus 1-2-3 for Sun SPARC Systems Version 1.1 with the OPEN LOOK Interface is fully compatible with all releases of Lotus 1-2-3, including DOS and previous Sun SPARC spreadsheet versions. Optimized for the UNIX environment, the product supports X Windows, integrates Lotus' C Add-in Toolkit, features a bundled SYBASE SQL Server DataLens Driver and supports Lotus Realtime, a sophisticated technology that feeds real-time financial data directly into 1-2-3. The OPEN LOOK Interface will be available within 90 days. Customers who purchase 1-2-3 for Sun SPARC Systems Version 1.1 after October 30 can obtain the OPEN LOOK Interface free of charge. Media Edition users who purchased 1-2-3 between June 10 and October 29, 1991, can obtain the OPEN LOOK Interface update kit for $40. Current Node Edition users can obtain the interface documentation at no extra charge. The interface will be incorporated into 1-2-3 for Sun SPARC Systems Version 1.1 and sold through Lotus national distributors, including Ingram Micro and Merisel, 1-2-3 for Sun SPARC Systems distributor Access Graphics, ERI and more than 400 authorized Lotus 1-2-3 for Sun resellers. The International English version of the OPEN LOOK Interface for 1-2-3 for Sun SPARC Systems is scheduled to ship with the U.S. English version. French and German versions will ship 60-90 days later. The Standard Edition of Lotus 1-2-3 for Sun SPARC Systems requires a Sun-4/SPARC System running SunOS 4.1.1 or higher, 12 megabytes of RAM and 10 megabytes of available hard disk space. The spreadsheet also requires OpenWindows 2.0 (running either SunView or OPEN LOOK) or X/11 release 4. Support for the OPEN LOOK Interface and Lotus 1-2-3 for SunSPARC Systems is available through Lotus' PROMPT support hotline program. UNIX Support specialists are available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. EST at (800) 832-1793, a hotline number dedicated solely to UNIX spreadsheet users. Customers requiring upgrade information for the OPEN LOOK interface or for 1-2-3 for Sun SPARC Systems can call (800) 343-5414 for details. All prices and terms are for the U.S.A. only. PR contact: Whitney Greer (415) 336-0598 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- From: toms@qualix.com (Tom Stuart) Subject: Introducing SpeedStor (Hard Driver manager) The program that cuts installation of hard drives in SPARCstations by 90% Milpitas, CA (Nov. 13, 1991) Storage Dimensions today introduces SpeedStor for SunOS, the first program that eliminates the time consuming process of installing generic SCSI hard drives on SPARCstations. SpeedStor's "point and click" GUI eliminates the need to calculate or memorize complicated commands or edit format.dat files when preparing hard drives or changing drive partitions. SpeedStor also provides on-going management of SCSI hard drives with easy- to-identify screen icons and sophisticated object-oriented diagnostics. No longer is it necessary to buy a pre-prepared hard drive for your SPARCstation. Purchase a generic SCSI hard drive and use SpeedStor. With SpeedStor, preparing a generic SCSI drive takes as little as ten minutes. SpeedStor reads the firmware and geometry of the hard drive and automatically performs all drive preparations, thus eliminating the need for format.dat entries. Additional Features and Benefits: - GUI partition manager for custom partitioning of hard drives - File system management features to create, check, locate, mount, and unmount file systems - Built in warning features to warn of file system conflicts - GUI driven defect management and diagnostics, including hard drive surface scanning, low level reformatting, defect mapping, and defect listing - Automatic verification of proper storage system operation with read, write, seek and controller tests - Printing of mode pages for any SCSI drive - In-depth contextual help - Provides SCSI verify, format, reassign capabilities - Provides rewind, erase, and retention of tape devices - Electronic registration and reporting of problems Supports: - SunOS 4.1 and Solaris 1.0 - All SPARCstations - All SCSI hard drives (including greater than 1GB) - Interfaces include Open Windows, SunView, and Shell Scripts Licensing: - Single CPU (node) $149.95 SRP - Network (domain) $499.95 SRP Order from: - Qualix Group, Inc. Call 1 (800) 245-UNIX or email: info@qualix.com Founded in 1985, Storage Dimensions is a worldwide supplier of hardware and software for hard disk and optical storage systems over 100 MB for workstations, personal computers, and networks. Storage Dimensions is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Maxtor Corporation (NASDAQ: MXTR). -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Subject: TCP/IP Printer Adapter From: sjb@microplex.com (Steve Balaban) M200 TCP/IP Printer Adapter The M200 was designed to be the price/performance leader in printer server technology, and we can confidently state that we have achieved this objective. The M200 incorporates a 16 bit processor with DMA channel to provide sustained parallel data rates well in excess of 50,000 characters per second while simultaneously supporting 2 serial printers at 38,400bps. Data rates in excess of 50,000 cps have been achieved when used with high speed printers such as the HP IIISi and Tektronix 4694DX models. No other print server currently on the market matches the M200's performance or price per port. The M200 Adapter is shipping with current delivery being approximately 1 to 2 weeks ARO, and the quantity one price is $995.00 US plus applicable taxes and shipping. The M201 10Base-T model mentioned in our data sheet is planned for release in the first quarter of 92. Host software for the M200 currently supports SunOS, SCO XENIX, SCO UNIX, HP/UX, IBM RS/6000 AIX, and Prime's RISC OS. However, work is under way to provide versions for several other operating systems, and we have received confirmation from customers that have compiled our host software to work on DEC Ultrix, Interactive UNIX, AT&T System V, and other UNIX variants. We are also prepared to supply source code for our host software to permit recompiling or porting to hardware platforms and operating systems we don't support at this time. Should you have any questions or require additional details for the M200, please contact us at 604 875-1461 or via email at sjb@microplex.com. ======================================= = MICROPLEX TCP/IP PRINTER ADAPTERS = = M200 * M201 = ======================================= The M200 and M201 TCP/IP Printer Adapters set new performance standards for network printing. The M200 and M201 allow installations running TCP/IP to physically locate printers at any point on an Ethernet LAN. Their high speed DMA based parallel interfaces provide increased throughput to printers ensuring peak performance in network printing environments. Connection setup and communication for data transfer between the host system and these devices is handled through the TCP/IP protocol. Product Features/Benefits - 16 bit processor with DMA maximizes throughput to printers and significantly decreases host processing overhead - Support of TCP/IP protocol permits networked PCs, workstations, and terminals to send files to any printer via TCP/IP host(s) - Access up to 3 printers per unit to minimize host port requirements and cabling costs - Direct LAN connection and simultaneous printing on all 3 ports reduces bottlenecks while improving peripheral sharing and access to printers - Data sent via the Ethernet interface overcomes serial speed and parallel distance limitations and adds flexibility to LAN designs - Printer status can be viewed from any host connected terminal or workstation to avoid loss of time and productivity - Using existing Thick-wire, Thin-wire, or UTP network cabling simplifies installation and relocation of printers - Compact size requires minimal space and can be mounted on the side of most printers to eliminate added desk top clutter The Ideal Solution for Network Printing The M200 and M201 TCP/IP Printer Adapters let users locate lasers, printers, plotters, and other output devices anywhere on their Ethernet LANs eliminating the need to attach them directly to a host system. Both models incorporate a 16 bit processor with DMA channel to provide substantially faster throughput than direct host connected printing. Thick and Thin-wire Ethernet connections on the M200 and UTP and Thick-wire connections on the M201 facilitate easy network installation of printers, and permit use of existing LAN cabling. Installing these adapters into a network dramatically reduces host computer loading because output data passes through high speed LAN interfaces rather than character by character devices. Microplex Printer Adapters support the TCP/IP protocol to enable more efficient use of existing printers in heterogeneous networking environments. They offer a parallel port that supports data rates in excess of 50,000 characters per second, dual 38,400 bps serial ports, and simultaneous output to minimize printing bottlenecks and provide quicker access to print files. Any user can access up to 3 printers per adapter through the network freeing up host ports for other purposes. Several M200s and M201s can be installed in larger networks to distribute available printers among departmentalized work groups. Host Software The M200 and M201 come bundled with easy to use host software for configuration of parameters, loading IP addressing, and providing a link with the LP Daemon through interface files and filter program. Direct printing without spooling is also possible through a command line interface. Additionally, the software enables host connected terminals or PCs to view the adapter's port settings and printer status conditions such as Busy, Error, On-line, or Paper Out. Technical Specifications Interfaces ---------- Provide compatibility with TCP/ICMP/IP and the 802.3 Ethernet protocols. Network Port ------------ Model M200 IEEE 802.3 10Base5 Thick-wire Ethernet female DA15 AUI connector through Transceiver/Tap. IEEE 802.3 10Base2 Thin-wire Ethernet female BNC connector. Model M201 IEEE 802.3 10Base-T UTP Ethernet female RJ45 connector. IEEE 802.3 10Base5 Thick-wire Ethernet female DA15 AUI connector through Transceiver/Tap. Parallel Port ------------- IBM PC compatible parallel interface, female DB25 connector, supports data rates in excess of 50,000 bytes per second. Serial Port ----------- Dual IBM AT compatible serial interfaces, male DE09 connectors Data rates supported: 150 to 38,400 bits per second Flow Control: XON/XOFF, CTS Printer Support --------------- Support all RS-232C and IBM PC compatible parallel interfaces. Support Centronics with standard parallel adapter cable. Microplex Systems Ltd. 265 East 1st Avenue Vancouver, BC Canada V5T 1A7 * * ** Steve Balaban Phone: +1 604 875 1461 * * * ** sjb@microplex.com Fax: +1 604 875 9029 * * * * * ** Microplex Systems Ltd. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Subject: Announcing Xv++ -- A C++ class interface to XView From: toms@qualix.com (Tom Stuart) Do you want the flexibility of C++ and the standardization of XView? o Window systems are meant to be programmed in object-oriented programming. o Xv++ provides a full C++ API to XView Open Look tool kit. - Your entire application can be a tree of C++ objects. o Produce your own reusable interface components with C++ inheritance. - Maintains the familiar attribute/value XView API for C++ objects. o Supports Sun's Developers Guide Interface Builder. (DevGuide) o Runs over a standard, unmodified XView toolkit OVERVIEW Xv++ is a library of classes providing a C++ Application Programmer's Interface (API) to Sun's XView Open Look toolkit. Applications derive from Xv++ base classes with notification and events handled by virtual functions. The product includes source, examples, manual and prototype Xv++ code generator for use with Sun's OpenWindows Developers Guide. For programmers now using a C++ environment, the Xv++ "wrapper" classes provide a complete replacement API to XView. The C++ constructor/destructors do the job of xv_create() and xv_destroy(). Set() and get() member functions retain the familiar attribute/value call style, with the same XView attribute names. The C++ class library runs over a standard, unmodified XView toolkit. Pricing Single User Price ------ ---- ---- $150 binaries $495 source Multi-user License ---------- ------- $1,495 source Qualix Group, Inc. 1900 S. Norfolk, Suite 224 San Mateo, CA 94403 Phone: 415/572-0200; Fax: 415/572-1300 Email: info@qualix.com ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ For information send mail to info-sunflash@sunvice.East.Sun.COM. Subscription requests should be sent to sunflash-request@sunvice.East.Sun.COM. Archives are on solar.nova.edu and paris.cs.miami.edu. All prices, availability, and other statements relating to Sun or third party products are valid in the U.S. only. Please contact your local Sales Representative for details of pricing and product availability in your region. Descriptions of, or references to products or publications within SunFlash does not imply an endorsement of that product or publication by Sun Microsystems. John McLaughlin, SunFlash editor, flash@sunvice.East.Sun.COM. (305) 776-7770.