U.S. Robotics Introduces ISDN Analog Multi-Port System That Makes Existing Remote Access Servers ISDN-Capable; Remote Access Market Leader Ships MP 8 I-Modem and MP 16 I-Modem, Providing ISDN and Analog Connectivity in One Device

Business Wire, August 20, 1996

SKOKIE, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 20, 1996--U.S. Robotics (NASDAQ: USRX) is now shipping the MP/8 I-Modem and MP/16 I-Modem with ISDN/V.34 technology, two new products that integrate U.S. Robotics V.Everything(TM)/V.34 modem technology with ISDN terminal adapters, providing analog and ISDN support in one self-contained device.

Designed to provide cost-effective, front-end, remote access solutions for corporations, branch offices, small offices, Internet Service Providers and Bulletin Board operators, the MP I-Modems support both ISDN and analog calls automatically on a per call basis through one unit.

These new high-speed MP I-Modems are perfect for users interested in migrating toward ISDN but who must also maintain compatibility with existing analog lines to support the vast installed base of analog users. Both analog and ISDN calls can be sent or received by the MP I-Modem because each port, on a call-by-call basis, can automatically detect the remote device type and connect transparently to ISDN or analog products.

The MP products front-end other devices such as terminal servers, rackmounted PCs or existing remote access servers, and provide users with a seamless transition to ISDN.

They can be used as a drop-in replacement for existing stand-alone modems, without requiring the underlying application to change. Moreover, no additional external devices are needed because the MP I-Modem allows direct connection to an ISDN wall jack.

"These products create an easy and seamless migration path to ISDN," said Larry Kraft, U.S. Robotics Manager, Product Marketing, Network Systems Division. "They give a cost-effective solution to those users interested in incorporating both ISDN and analog access to their networks through the same device and telephone number."

With U.S. Robotics MP I-Modems, users get increased bandwidth, up to 64Kbps of bandwidth over each ISDN connection. This provides users noticeable performance gains in applications such as Internet access with graphical browsers, file transfer, and imaging, and remote node applications such as telecommuting. And, because of U.S. Robotics' V.Everything modem technology, analog calls are assured connection at the highest available connection rate, up to 33.6Kbps. The products also include integrated fax capabilities, as well as flash ROM upgradability. As new features become available, they can be software downloaded to the MP I-Modem, assuring investment protection for customers.

The MP/8 I-Modem and the MP/16 I-Modem incorporate either eight or 16 ports into a low-profile platform (3.5" high, 17.5" wide and 12.6" deep), which may be rackmounted or used on a desktop.

The MP/8 I-Modem connects to four ISDN Basic Rate Interface (BRI) lines, supports eight "B" channels/ports and has a list price of $6,495. The MP/16 I-Modem connects to eight ISDN BRI lines, supports 16 "B" channels/ports and has a list price of $10,995. Each terminal adapter interface also integrates NT-1 capabilities, providing a seamless connection to the ISDN network with no additional equipment required.

The Dell'Oro Group, a research group specializing in business planning and strategic competitive analysis in the networking industry, recently reported that U.S. Robotics holds the leading share of the worldwide remote access market.

U.S. Robotics is one of the world's leading suppliers of products and systems that provide access to information. The company designs, manufactures, markets and supports remote access servers, enterprise communications systems, desktop/mobile client products and modems and telephony products that connect computers and other equipment over analog, digital and switched cellular networks, enabling users to gain access to manage and share data, fax and voice information. Its customers include Internet service providers, regional Bell operating companies, inter-exchange carriers and a wide range of other large and small businesses, institutions and individuals. The company's fiscal 1995 sales were $889.3 million; sales for the first nine months of fiscal 1996 were $1.37 billion.

Editor's Note: Reader inquiries may be directed to (800)USR CORP. U.S. Robotics' Web page may be accessed at http://www.usr.com.

V.Everything is a trademark of U.S. Robotics.

CONTACT: U.S. Robotics Corporation

Robyn Porter, 847/933-5204

Lauri Lentz, 847/982-5230