--Designed to Automate Complex Enterprise Network Management,Maximize Performance and Reduce Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)--
SUNNYVALE, CA -- April 6, 1998 --AMD today unveiled its Managed Performance Portfolio, a comprehensive group of robust power and advanced management tools designed to provide critical end-to-end management and control of the enterprise network. The Portfolio works in conjunction and is fully compatible with the entire family of AMD's PCnet™ Ethernet and Fast Ethernet controllers. The combination of AMD's Fast Ethernet technology and its Managed Performance Portfolio provides IT specialists with a complete solution that significantly enhances total network performance and reduces the overall cost of desktop computing.
"AMD spearheaded the evolution of power management technology with its Magic Packet devices," said Mark Litvack, AMD's product marketing manager of network products. "The Managed Performance Portfolio addresses the complex demands facing IT managers today. As the LAN emerges as the cornerstone of corporate business, there is increasing pressure to maximize network performance, while lowering management and maintenance costs. Our Portfolio provides OEMs and IT specialists with a cohesive tool-set that automates complex management tasks and reduces TCO."
AMD created the Managed Performance Portfolio to address the broad span of complex issues associated with managing the computer network. The core products offered as part of AMD's Managed Performance Portfolio provide the technologies required to reduce complexity by automating network management and maintenance tasks such as desktop configuration, diagnostics, file backup and data management. In a society that is driven by information, network downtime not only means significant costs, but the disruption to business can be enormous. The Managed Performance Portfolio is designed to reduce TCO without compromising overall network performance, essential in maximizing the return on investment in information technology.
AMD's Managed Performance Portfolio:
The following AMD technologies with CA's Unicenter TNG Framework are provided with the Managed Performance Portfolio:
Magic Packet Technology
Magic Packet technology, co-developed by AMD and Hewlett Packard, is the foundation for Microsoft's OnNow, Advanced Configuration Power Interface (ACPI) and many of the industry's leading power management initiatives. Magic Packet technology enables network administrators to remotely wake-up and power-on PCs from a central location. The ability to carry out management tasks such as software upgrades, and file configurations from a central console after normal working hours alleviates much of the burdensome administration and avoids costly network downtime.
Unicenter TNG Framework, Computer Associates
Unicenter TNG Framework is a strategic enterprise management solution providing end-to-end control of the entire network infrastructure. Combined with Magic Packet technology, Framework provides IT specialists a one-stop solution, enabling them to carry out proactive network monitoring and diagnostics such as anti-virus protection scans. The early detection of potential problems greatly increases network reliability and efficiency. With the addition of optional modules, desktop PCs can be easily upgraded because software, operating systems, and other files can be distributed to PCs from the server rather than manually at individual PCs.
Pre-Boot Execution Environment(PXE)
AMD's PXE code incorporates Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) software and boot code, which is essential for the effective management of a large TCP/IP network. Each time a PC is added to a network, the system administrator has to allocate a new IP address as well as download software and various other information. PXE enables IT specialists to easily connect additional PCs, move existing PCs between networks and download software. The ability to dynamically update the IP address and download software from a central console simplifies network administration and maximizes efficiency.
PermaNet Server featuring Hot Plug Capability
AMD's PermaNet Server is an optimum fault tolerance solution that is vital for mission critical applications. By deploying the PermaNet Server in a dual link environment, if the primary link fails, the secondary link is automatically and seamlessly engaged. Engagement of the secondary link maintains the network connection, completely transparent to the desktop user. Integrated reporting capabilities alert MIS staff of the link failure so that the appropriate maintenance can be carried out. The Hot Plug capability allows MIS staff to replace the primary link without shutting down the server, eliminating disruption to the network. The PermaNet Server with the Hot Plug feature is a cost-effective back-up link that protects corporate business against the huge costs associated with server downtime.
Network Alarm Clock
The Network Alarm Clock provides IT specialists with significant control and flexibility by allowing them to remotely schedule Magic Packet capable PCs to boot up at a pre-set time. In a corporation with hundreds of computers, the ability to systematically boot-up networked PCs before users arrive to work dramatically reduces the possibility of bottlenecks due to network overload.
PCnet Diverse Utilities with DMI Support
AMD supplies drivers that include version 2.0 of the Desktop Management Interface (DMI). DMI is the industry standard for desktop and server management. Support for the standard results in the ability to manage multiple operating systems and hardware platforms. AMD also supplies software that is compatible with the PCnet family of Ethernet Controllers. This software includes PCnet installation and diagnostics to verify operation and validate system integration and support.
Price and Availability
The Managed Performance Portfolio of technologies are provided to our customers without charge. All technologies are currently available.
Safe Harbor Statement
This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including the timely completion of the new production line, the effect of changing economic conditions, and such risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the company's SEC reports.