SI CUSTOM PRODUCTS
Intelligent Sharing Device (ISD)
The ISD was designed to provide a comprehensive, cost effective solution for
branch connectivity. Operating in an SNA environment, the ISD combines the unique
integration of modem sharing, dial backup, dynamic bandwidth and network
management functions. Consequently, the ISD effectively reduces costs, ensures
communications and enhances operational efficiency.
Highlights
Modem Sharing reduces communication costs
The ISD reduces communication costs in a polled, multi-drop environment by sharing
leased line, modem or computer port facilities with 4 devices. Flexible
configuration allows any combination of modems and/or terminals to share the
common channel. Contention is typically based on RTS/CTS handshaking, however non-
standard applications are easily adapted. Occasionally, device malfunctions will
lock out other functioning devices. The ISD automatically disables defective
devices after a user defined time out period to maintain communications for the
rest of the branch.
Dial backup ensures branch communications
Unlike most sharing devices, the ISD protects against dedicated service failures.
The integrated dial backup support feature swiftly establishes an alternated route
for branch communication upon leased line failures. This invaluable feature
ensures that branch transactions can continue usually without user knowledge of
failure conditions.
Automatic Speed Matching
Typically dial backup lines operate at different speeds than the dedicated
services they support. The ISD automatically provides the speed conversion such
that backup communications are transparent to all connected devices.
Dynamic bandwidth enhances operational efficiency
Backup lines are normally idle, representing an under utilisation of network
resources. The ISD enables the branch to use the backup line in parallel with
normal branch operations. By allowing a dedicated auxiliary DTE port access to the
backup line, the ISD extends usual bandwidth capabilities of the branch. As a
result file transfers, software updates, etc. can occur in parallel with high
priority transactions. Operational efficiency is enhanced since off hour network
time is no longer needed for specialized data transfers.
Netview compatibility
The ISD support LL2 commands to enable network management using existing Netview
facilities. Consequently the ISD is managed as an integrated part of your SNA
network. If Netview is not used, the ISD can be used in combination with Omicron's
Dial Backup Controller (DBC) as a stand alone solution. Both products are also
compatible with Omicron's SureNet network management software. See the DBC and
SureNet brochures for more information. If a TCP/IP network environment is handy,
the option of using SNMP over a SLIP connection is available to remotly manage the ISD.
Upgradeability
The ISD supports remote program load. This feature enables all ISD's, installed
at customer locations, to be upgraded without disrupting the installation! New or
custom functions can be down loaded to accommodate evolving network requirements.
Not only does ISD reduce costs today, it also provides an intelligent migration
path for network growth.
Ordering information:
4360M-00 Intelligent Sharing Device (ISD)
Send e-mail to: info@omicron.ca