SCOTTS VALLEY, Calif. (May 18, 1999) -- Meridian Data Inc. (NASDAQ/NMS: MDCD), a leading provider of network-attached storage (NAS) solutions, today announced its CD Net Universal XP Cache, a high-performance, low-cost CD-ROM network server that allows up to 30 typical CD titles to be cached on a single hard disk. Meridian Data's new workgroup CD-ROM network-attached storage (NAS) server provides users maximum data throughput for data-intensive CD-ROMs such as multimedia applications across most PC networks, the Internet and corporate intranets, with prices starting at $2,625.
CD Net Universal XP Cache features a 100 megahertz, 32-bit RISC processor and high-speed, reliable SCSI-II CD-ROM drives, allowing fast access and quick response times to multiple simultaneous users. With the standard 9GB SCSI hard drive for archiving CDs, XP Cache provides shared access to multiple CD titles at hard disk speed without having discs resident on the server. The server also comes standard with a 32-megabyte data cache, which can be expanded to 160 megabytes using standard DIMM modules and includes an auto-sensing 10/100 Mbps Ethernet connection.
"We believe CD Net Universal XP Cache has the lowest entry price among CD-ROM servers with comparable features and performance in the market today," said Jeff Hill, vice president of product marketing, Meridian Data. "Hard disk caching gives users maximum performance and optimal use of the limited number of drive bays in the server. The low price and solid performance make CD Net Universal XP Cache well-suited for environments such as small businesses, remote offices, schools and libraries."
CD Net Universal XP Cache Features
CD Net Universal XP Cache integrates easily into Microsoft NT, Novell NetWare or UNIX networks and automatically supports multiple simultaneous network protocols, including TCP/IP, IPX, NetBIOS, NetBEUI, UDP/IP and HTTP. Supported clients include PCs running Microsoft's Windows 95/98, Windows 3.1, Windows for Workgroups 3.11, Windows NT Workstation v3.51 or 4.0, and MS-DOS; IBM's OS/2; and most varieties of UNIX.
Meridian Data's servers attach directly to network ports, without affecting the performance of existing servers. CD Net Universal XP Cache servers come pre-configured with all server software embedded in firmware, and do not require network managers to re-configure or install any additional software or hardware onto existing file servers in order to implement a multiuser CD-ROM network solution.
Administrators can manage CD Net Universal XP Cache from any Windows-based computer on the network. Because the built-in management software is Web-browser-based, administrators can use standard Web browsers, including Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer, to perform tasks such as adjusting network settings, access rights, caching options and monitoring server status.
CD Net Universal Configurations
The servers are available in three basic configurations: a three-bay mini-tower, a seven-bay tower featuring a locking door that prevents unauthorized access to CD-ROM titles, and a standard 19-inch rack mount. Additional hard drive and memory modules are available as options.
Pricing and Availability
The CD Net Universal XP Cache product line begins with an entry-level model with three drive bays populated with one 32X CD-ROM drive and one 9 GB SCSI hard disk for caching at a suggested U.S. retail price of $2,625. Meridian Data's CD Net Universal XP Cache offers options for purchasers to customize their servers, with additional models available with an SRP of up to $5,195. The seven-bay tower will be available for shipment after June 1, and the 3-bay mini-tower and rack mount configurations will be available for shipment after July 1.
Meridian's CD Net Universal XP Cache network servers may be purchased through local computer value-added resellers (VARs) and leading national catalog resellers such as Computer Discount Warehouse (CDW) and PC Connection. Ingram Micro and Tech Data distribute Meridian's CD Net Universal XP Cache network servers to the reseller channel nationally. Additional information about the CD Net Universal XP Cache is available via Meridian Data's toll-free telephone number, 1-800-767-2537 and web page www.meridian-data.com.
About Meridian Data Inc.
Founded in 1988, Meridian Data is a developer and manufacturer of easy-to-use network storage solutions. With more than four million users, Meridian Data's systems are deployed worldwide throughout Fortune 1,000 class companies, small businesses, government and educational institutions.
Meridian Data is headquartered in Scotts Valley, Calif., and maintains offices in New York, Washington, Orlando, Chicago, Dallas, San Jose, Calif. and London. For more information on Meridian Data's workgroup NAS products, visit www.meridian-data.com or call 1-800-767-2537.
