SAN JOSE, Calif.---Aug. 25, 1997--Sun Microsystems Inc. today announced the JavaEngine 1 reference platform, a bundled hardware/software product that enables Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to broaden the use of thin client systems within the enterprise computing marketplace.
The JavaEngine 1 contains all the elements necessary for an OEM to immediately enter the market, including a cost-efficient motherboard or design kit coupled with the JavaOS operating system, technical training, application references and network server technology.
"Sun has led the development of Java computing since its inception, and the JavaEngine 1 platform builds on this broad industry momentum," said Chet Silvestri, president of Sun's Microelectronics Division."With JavaEngine 1, we are offering an end-to-end solution that is expected to boost the growth of the enterprise thin client Java computing market.JavaEngine 1 will give our customers a strong foundation to build a business on the explosive growth of Java."
Java Computing Deployment
IDC expects the Java-enabled enterprise thin client market to exceed seven million units by the year 2000.The JavaEngine 1 platform is currently being leveraged by PC vendors, UNIX systems suppliers and special purpose platform manufacturers who want to enter the market rapidly to take advantage of the tremendous growth opportunities.JavaEngine 1 allows PC vendors to provide end users a full range of thin client products.
When combined with software from Insignia Solutions, customers can easily transition from PC computing to Java computing.The second target market, UNIX suppliers, is using its network knowledge along with the JavaEngine 1 to address the demand for enterprise thin client Java computing in markets such as finance, education and retail.Finally, special purpose vendors are using JavaEngine 1 to address the growing demand for networked information access in point-of-sale applications, kiosks and dedicated devices.
"Sun's JavaEngine 1 has made Java computing a reality for GTE," said Tom Pasierb, Systems Engineer for GTE."GTE selected Sun and the JavaEngine 1 because of its cost-effective Java-ready processor and its end-to-end product portfolio, which enabled us to deploy a highly portable, rugged client terminal."
End-to-End Java Computing Solutions
System vendors looking to provide comprehensive client/server solutions can build entire Java computing product lines based on end-to-end solutions from Sun: customers can build thin clients based on JavaEngine 1 and servers based on the Ultra AX board.In planning Java-based product lines, system vendors can count on full software and hardware support from Sun.Technical training consists of a formal course on the platform, consulting services for unique requirements and applications support.
Java Engine 1 Reference Platform Specifics
Sun offers several options for OEMs.The JavaEngine 1 board provides the mechanism for the most rapid market entry, while a design kit allows system vendors the ability to customize the design. In many cases vendors will use both approaches, getting to market rapidly with boards and then targeting specific applications, through use of the design kit.The JavaEngine 1 platform is powered by the microSPARC-IIep processor, and offered in a 100 MHz version.High-performance 10/100 Base-T Ethernet provides the bandwidth for the most demanding Java applications.
Other features of the platform include: color graphics (1024 x 768), 16-bit stereo audio, memory expansion from 8 to 64 MB, and the JavaOS desktop user environment in binary form.At 7" x 7", the board enables very small form factor systems.References for power supplies and enclosures are also available to speed time to market.The operating system has been optimized to exploit the high bandwidth PCI bus integral to the microSPARC-IIep and the high- speed networking inherent in the JavaEngine 1.The "Java Powered" brand is also included allowing OEMs to benefit from the market recognition of Java.
Price and Availability
JavaEngine 1 will sample in September and volume shipments are expected in Q4, 1997.In quantities of 10,000, the JavaEngine 1 is $385.
About Sun Microsystems Inc.
Since its inception in 1982, a singular vision, "The Network Is The Computer,"has propelled Sun Microsystems Inc. (NASDAQ:"SUNW") to its position as a leading provider of hardware, software and services for establishing enterprise-wide intranets and expanding the power of the Internet.With more than $8 billion in annual revenues, Sun can be found in more than 150 countries and on the World Wide Web at http://www.sun.com .-0-
Note to Editors: Sun, Sun Microsystems, the Sun Logo, Java Engine, Java, JavaOS, Ultra and The Network Is The Computer are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sun Microsystems Inc. in the United States and other countries.All SPARC trademarks are used under license and are trademarks or registered trademarks of SPARC international Inc. in the United States and other countries. Products bearing SPARC trademarks are based upon an architecture developed by Sun Microsystems Inc.UNIX is a registered trademark in the United States and other countries exclusively licensed through X/Open Company, Ltd.