L M Ericsson Telefon AB has announced the Eripax PA4, a range of multi-function nodes, designed to enable host computers and local networks running the TCP/IP protocol to be interconnected across X25 networks. The nodes are claimed to combine TCP/IP, IBM SNA, X25 and packet assembly-disassembly functions. TCP/IP interconnection is provided through an interface board […]
L M Ericsson Telefon AB has announced the Eripax PA4, a range of multi-function nodes, designed to enable host computers and local networks running the TCP/IP protocol to be interconnected across X25 networks. The nodes are claimed to combine TCP/IP, IBM SNA, X25 and packet assembly-disassembly functions. TCP/IP interconnection is provided through an interface board (with associated software) which is fitted to the X25 access node, and IP datagrams are encapsulated and routed across the X25 network in accordance with the RFC 877 standard. Each node incorporates a motherboard including two X25 ports, and up to four Eripax PA4-B, or six Eripax PA4-L slave boards. These come in four types; an asynchronous board for four ports providing assembly-disassembly functions; a 19.2Kbps synchronous board with four ports (each of which can be configured for X25 or SNA connection); a 64Kbps synchronous slave board with four ports, again configurable for X25 or SNA connection, and an Ethernet slave board providing ISO CONS communications or the new IP routing capability over thick or thin wire Ethernet. Several Eripax PA4 units can be linked using ISO CONS over Ethernet as a fast backplane. Pricing and availability details have yet to be given.
