Remote Access Server Promises Low-Cost, Compact Solution

POP-in -a-box supports both digital and analog connections, replaces modem banks, terminal servers.

by Wayne Kawamoto [December 17, 1999]

Cyclades Corporation recently introduced the Cyclades-PR4000, a stand-alone remote access server that lets Internet service providers and enterprise network managers terminate both analog and digital calls, providing Internet access for dialup customers or corporate network access to those away from the office.

One-stop shopping
The Cyclades-PR4000 was designed to replace terminal servers, modem banks, DSU/CSUs, and routers. The unit will work as an ISP POP (point-of-presence) in a box. According to Cyclades, the PR4000 helps firms migrate from traditional terminal server/modem banks to remote access by using consolidated T1/E1 or PRI lines, and transparently replaces remote access gear without affecting the rest of the network.

The PR4000 comes with two fixed Ethernet interfaces (a 10/100BT primary and a 10BT secondary), two fixed ISDN PRI or channelized T1/E1 connections, modular modem boards, an optional WAN expansion, and standard RAM expansions. It supports both analog (V.90, K56flex, and older modem standards) and digital (ISDN) calls. The digital modems use DSP technology and their software is upgradeable, which should ensure that the PR4000 can support future modem standards.

Built-in management
The PR4000 provides security and management features by incorporating the Cyclades Routing Operating System (CyROS). To configure the device, there's a dedicated console port. Alternatively, configuration can be achieved via telnet or HTTP connection from any point in the network.

The Cyclades-PR4000 is available now. Pricing starts at $5,573 for the model with T1/E1 connections and an 8 modem card.

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