Zenith Data Systems announces a wireless, multi-tasking enterprise
computing solution for locally-mobile workers 

The new "MultiCruise" system creates multiple, concurrent Windows NT-based
sessions on a central server to host wireless CruisePAD interfaces:
improves mobile workforce management, decreases system support costs

BUFFALO GROVE, IL.-January 15, 1996 -- Zenith Data Systems (ZDS) introduced
today an innovative enterprise solution based on an extended version of
Windows NT that provides mobile computing capabilities through a wireless
multi-user applications server. Available now, the new MultiCruise
solution offers locally-mobile workers remote, real-time access to the
virtually unlimited power and functionality of a server using the
CruisePAD interface, ZDS' award-winning wireless device. With a strong
suite of wireless network and device management tools, MultiCruise
provides unprecedented centralized control over mobile computing,
simplifying support and reducing costs. 

MultiCruise allows multiple CruisePADs to remotely control multiple
Windows-based sessions running concurrently on a standard ZDS server.
Unlike proprietary and Pen Windows-based mobile systems, MultiCruise
utilizes an organization's existing software and standard MS-DOS (text),
Windows 3 X Windows 95 and Windows NT-based applications, so no special
training or system conversion is required. The completely scalable system
offers easy expansion and upgrades, plus unparalleled flexibility in a
mobile solution. 

"Our new MultiCruise is a truly revolutionary, smart approach that cuts the
compromises and enhances the rewards of mobilizing a work force," said
Alan Soucy, vice president of mobile and advanced portable systems at ZDS.
"It is the first system to combine the IS management benefits of
centralized computing, standard Windows applications of a PC, and the
mobility of a hand-held. There simply isn't anything remotely like our
MultiCruise in the market.

"Microsoft is excited about ZDS' MultiCruise system," said Rich Tong,
general manager, business systems division, Microsoft Corp. "Windows NT is
our enterprise computing solution, and with MultiCruise, ZDS has extended
to mobile users the robustness, diagnostic tools, and 32-bit applications
support of Windows NT. This is a strong platform for locally-mobile
enterprise computing applications." 

Mobility, manageability and power

With such an unusual combination of exceptional components and unparalleled
capabilities, MultiCruise does not fit into traditional categories and
defies direct comparison with other mobile products. Beginning with the
system's implementation of mobility through its support features and
versatility, MultiCruise offers benefits that answer real business needs.


Mobility and well-designed simplicity: The industry-leading CruisePAD
wireless remote interface supplies the mobility aspect of the MultiCruise
solution. It enables locally-mobile users to work whenever and wherever
they need to - while walking or standing. The convenient touch-sensitive
display gives workers freedom to roam throughout a building or complex
with seamless access to the full computing resources of a networked
server. 

CruisePAD has won an impressive array of awards and recognition since its
introduction in 1994, and ZDS currently has a record-breaking 17 patents
pending on the innovative technology. CruisePAD successfully overcomes the
size versus functionality trade-offs of typical mobile alternatives
running proprietary pen systems with limited on-board power. Since all
data and software is centrally stored on the MultiCruise server, the
CruisePAD interface also eliminates data synchronization problems and the
threat of data theft, damage and loss. 

Designed to be comfortably held in one hand and operated with the touch of
a finger or pen, the rugged wireless device weighs only about three
pounds, measures 9.8 x 10.6 inches, yet features a full-size 8.5-inch 640
x 480 backlit display for easy viewing of full Windows screens. 

Centralized IS management simplifies support and reduces costs: The
MultiCruise solution offers IS managers unprecedented centralized control
over mobile computing with powerful wireless network and device management
tools. Network administrators can access all system utilities for event
logging, messaging and performance monitoring either at the
administrators' workstation or while locally mobile with a wireless
CruisePAD device. 

MultiCruise also makes software and hardware upgrades a snap. Centralized
on the system server, upgrades are performed locally and only once for all
CruisePADs. 

"The unwieldy logistics of upgrading a mobile work force often prevents an
organization from providing users with the benefits of the latest software
version or taking advantage of technology performance breakthroughs,"
explained Soucy. "Imagine the productivity lost and inefficiency involved
with physically collecting 120 mobile devices from workers and manually
installing an upgrade. Not with MultiCruise - one installation per server
instantly updates everyone's capabilities." 

The MultiCruise solution can also drastically reduce support costs
throughout the life cycle of the system. Robust remote diagnostic and
trouble-shooting capabilities provide full support and analysis of
CruisePAD interface operations. System administrators can help users on
the go with system and application questions, and solve problems remotely
without interrupting productivity. 

Virtually unlimited power and scalability: Rather than compromising
performance by miniaturizing the elements of a desktop PC into a costly
hand-held, MultiCruise wirelessly links locally-mobile workers to the
complete capacity, capabilities and functionality of a networked server.
From Internet access and 32-bit applications, to an expanded CD-ROM
library and error correcting RAM, every CruisePAD user can immediately
access and benefit from all network resources as they roam throughout the
workplace. 

Investment protection is built into MultiCruise with infinite expandability
and flexibility to adapt and grow with an organization's changing needs.
The MultiCruise system can host up to 60 CruisePAD users from one server
that can be configured with a single processor or scaled up to a quad
Pentium processor-based system, equipped with 32MB RAM to 768MB of
error-correcting RAM, an 850MB to a 24GB HDD, one CD-ROM drive or a CD
jukebox. A multitude of bus slots and drive bays provide ample room for
more expansion and storage. 

Target markets

MultiCruise is an intelligent mobile solution for a variety of
information-intensive fields. It is the answer for today's "locally
mobile" professionals who spend much of their workday away from a desk
roaming throughout a building or complex and need access to unlimited
computer resources wherever their work is, while walking or standing. 

Healthcare is a primary market for MultiCruise because professionals' tasks
are typically performed in examination rooms or bedside. With MultiCruise,
everyone on the medical team gets real-time access to patient information
stored on the network and can view up-to-date patient records anytime and
anyplace. 

"Our new MultiCruise specifically addresses the unique economic and
mission-critical demands of the healthcare industry," commented Soucy.
"MultiCruise can efficiently and inexpensively bring full network
resources to the point of care where it is needed most." 

Vehicle service is another target application for MultiCruise. Currently
installed beta sites in the vehicle service industry are already
benefiting from MultiCruise by saving personnel the time and energy wasted
in walking to and from a stationary computer. MultiCruise puts parts and
labor pricing, shop manual data and technical specifications at the
fingertips of tecnicians where they are working, or talking with a
customer. It helps make estimates more accurate, inspections more
consistent, and repair work more precise. 

Likewise, the applications tor MultiCruise in retail and manufacturing are
evident. Through the CruisePAD interface, the MultiCruise system brings
inventory information and real-time sales data to where it is needed most
-- in the warehouse, to the store showroom or production line at the
factory. Education is another target market for MultiCruise which would
enable students to tap into reference information and assignments from
anywhere on campus, or be used as a dynamic administrative tool for staff.


MultiCruise sample configuration, pricing and availability

The cost-effective MultiCruise solution is completely scalable to allow
buyers to build a custom solution that meets their current needs and
budget. It can be set up to host up to 60 concurrent CruisePADs from one
ZDS server. 

For example, a typical 30-user configuration of the MultiCruise system
would include: a dual 120 MHz Pentium processor-based ZDS server with a
1.44MB FDD, 1GB HDD, 136MB RAM, CD-ROM, 30 CruisePADs, 30-user MultiCruise
licenses, MultiCruise system software, Ethernet card, color monitor,
keyboard, and mouse for the system administrator. Total system list price:
approximately $68,575, which equates to a per user cost of only $2,286.
(Estimated price does not include variable number of wireless bridge
devices required.) 

The MultiCruise system is available now only through CruisePAD authorized
resellers certified by Zenith Data Systems. 

Technical support

Zenith Data Systems offers 24-hour, seven-days-a-week toll-free customer
assistance and product support. Customers may also connect with the ZDS
Internet World Wide Web home page at http://www.zds.com for technical
information. 

About Zenith Data Systems

Zenith Data Systems, a Bull company, offers a full line of personal
computer products ranging from high-performance servers and desktops to
its award-winning line of notebook computers and wireless mobile products.
With sales locations in more than 30 countries, ZDS markets its products
to business, education and government. The company is headquartered in
Buffalo Grove, Ill., with engineering facilities in Santa Clara, Calif.,
Billerica, Mass. and Buffalo Grove; and manufacturing facilities in St.
Joseph, Mich. 

Zenith Data Systems, 2150 East Lake Cook Road, Buffalo Grove, 171, 60089,
(708) 808-5000, Fax (708) 8084434, Internet http://www.zds.com. (After
1/20/96, area code will be 847.) 

Reader inquiries to (800) 533-0331. 

Prices quoted are ZDS prices in US. dollars. Reseller prices may vary.
Resellers determine their own pricing which may be higher or lower than
Zenith Data Systems' prices.
 
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