SilkRoad Introduces Audio/Video Chat Solution

Business Wire, Sept 13, 2004

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. -- ChatBlazer Stream AV extends enterprise-class communication product offering; New line of HOTClient XChange plug-ins deliver dynamic options in chat services

SilkRoad technology, inc., the leading provider of enterprise-class, easy-to-use content management and collaboration software, today announced the launch of a full-fledged audio and video conferencing extension to its ChatBlazer enterprise-class chat/instant messaging product suite and a new line of plug-in options that will enhance customers' Web-enabled chat experiences.

The ChatBlazer Stream AV edition gives users the added ability to perform and participate in visual Web casts while conducting live chats. This feature, available as a plug-in module, offers a vast range of business benefits for small and large organizations looking to provide enhanced collaborative solutions that reach a wide array of targets.

ChatBlazer Stream AV is easy to use. Employing trusted Macromedia Flash technology, it allows almost anyone to access streaming audio and video without requiring large downloads of third-party applications.

It is also versatile, enabling users to engage in one-to-one private chats in a separate window; broadcast information in an e-learning, newscasting or financial live-casting environment; and conduct group-based discussions. ChatBlazer Stream AV's enterprise-class power gives customers the ability to participate in multiple AV-type rooms - a broadcast in one window, a group discussion in another - while also maintaining simultaneous chat threads in text format.

"ChatBlazer Stream AV is a natural extension for a customer base that understands the benefits of having a world-class chat solution," said Pete Quintas, CTO of SilkRoad technology. "Adding feature-rich audio and video capabilities to ChatBlazer's established connectivity, ease of use and plug-in module versatility creates a powerful tool customers can use to reach wider audiences and facilitate information flow."

Key features of ChatBlazer Stream AV include:

--Supports Multiple Media - One-to-one chats, broadcasts and group AV discussions available on a single screen.

--Superior Connectivity - Works in both Windows and Macintosh environments. Supported by most Web browsers.

--Low Bandwidth Cost - Unique Packet Routing Algorithm is able to distribute data packets to either the ChatBlazer server or the Stream AV server, based on its type - either AV or pure text.

--Easy Integration - No third-party applications to install. Ability to integrate with user's existing database and portal logins.

Pricing and availability

For detailed pricing information please visit www.silkroadtech.com.

HOTClient XChange plug-in options

SilkRoad enterprise chat customers also can take advantage of a series of new plug-in technologies that expand their capabilities in the chat room environment.

The HOTClient XChange - the company's plug-in site for its Java client -- will offer a library of exciting plug-ins, starting with canned message, news feed and game options.

--The Advanced Canned Message plug-in allows chat users to create their own custom messages and store them into their own private repositories. Chat users can display any of the pre-stored messages easily. They can create variables as well that can form part of the pre-stored message. This plug-in is especially useful for customer support, question-and-answer sessions and presentations.

--The RSS Feed plug-in gives a chat user the ability to display RSS news feeds from Web sites that support RSS protocol. The plug-in allows users to display the news as a scrolling ticker and control the speed of the ticker.

--The Tic-Tac-Toe game plug-in allows two users to play a game while chatting.

SilkRoad technology also has introduced a Windows IM client that has the same features as the company's Java IM client, but does not require the user to access the Web to start an IM session.

To increase the functionality of SilkRoad's enterprise chat solution, the company has formed a network of developers and customers to assemble other plug-in options.

"HOTClient XChange is just the latest example of how our industry-leading solution continues to evolve to provide increased benefits to our customers," said Brian Platz, executive vice president and general manager of SilkRoad technology inc. "As the initiative develops over time, we are committed to providing customers a virtually unlimited plate of choices to enhance their user experience."

About SilkRoad

SilkRoad technology, inc., is a leading developer of content management and web collaboration application solutions that offer the ease of use, scalability, performance and total cost of ownership required by enterprises and service providers. SilkRoad technology's innovative solutions provide web content management, network camera management, and team collaboration application suites. Additional information about SilkRoad technology products can be found at http://www.SilkRoadtech.com/ or toll free in the US at 1.866.329.3363 and internationally at +1.336.201.5100.