Provo, UT -- June 22, 1995 -- Ameritech Library Services announces NetConnect, a software/hardware package designed specially for libraries that want to introduce Internet resources and applications to their patrons and staff.
NetConnect is the result of the combination of leading-edge technologies from Ameritech Library Services and Sun Microsystems Computer Company. Recognizing the importance of global network access in the modem library environment, both companies offer NetConnect as an ideal medium for providing that access. NetConnect enables libraries to capitalize on state-of-the-art networking technology and services, while preserving investments in their current automation system.
"Libraries are quickly starting to recognize that networked PCs and access to the Internet represent an attractive means of providing cost-effective, rich sources of information to their patrons," said Jed Moffitt, Dynix product manager. "At the same time, libraries are concerned with budget constraints, technical issues, security, and training. It's a balancing act between what libraries want to offer their patrons and how feasible it is technically to provide such services," noted Moffitt.
"NetConnect not only provides a quality transition, but also a superb foundation for future library products and services," added Moffitt.
By separating Internet services onto the NetConnect server, new Internet services can be easily incorporated into NetConnect as these services become available, without compromising or interfering with current core automation services provided by Ameritech Library Services.
As a simple turnkey solution, NetConnect integrates E-mail, FTP, and a World Wide Web browser onto a Sun Netra Internet server, and then networks the full package onsite with the Dynix UNIX CPU.
NetConnect also provides a smooth integration path from searching the home library catalog to searching a remote system database. The librarian, patron, or dial-up user can use the intuitive Dynix CPU Gateways menus to easily access E-mail, the World Wide Web browser, or a library-customized list of Internet destinations.
In addition, NetConnect provides a scalable solution that caters to libraries of any size. Two NetConnect configurations are available to libraries: the Sun Netra-i5 Workgroup Internet Server supports up to 35 concurrent NetConnect users; the Sun Netra-i20 Departmental Internet Server supports up to 175 concurrent NetConnect users.
NetConnect requires a full-time internet connection via a local Internet service provider, and works with Dynix systems or UNIX-based hardware platforms. Dynix-provided or approved routers are recommended. Further configuration information may be obtained by contacting an Ameritech Library Services sales representative.
Ameritech Library Services develops and distributes library management systems and information access products worldwide. With headquarters in Provo, Utah, and an affiliate office in Evanston, Illinois, the company serves 3,333 client libraries in 34 countries through the Library Systems group consisting of the Academic, Public Libraries, School, Special Library, and International divisions. The Information Services group, which includes Retro-Link Associates (RLA), Vista, and GeneSys, provides database services and content delivery to customers worldwide.
Ameritech Library Services is a subsidiary of Ameritech Corporation, one of the worlds largest communications companies serving more than 13 million customers. The corporation provides a wide array of local, phone, data, and video services in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Ameritech is creating numerous information, entertainment, and interactive services for homes, businesses, and governments around the world.
