NERD ON THE STREET

Jerusalem-based Ericom Software has released the Powerterm Java terminal emulation package for Java-based Web browser-to-host connectivity to a variety of platforms including IBM mainframe and AS/400 systems as well as Unix, Hewlett-Packard and Compaq Computer/Digital environments. Powerterm Java runs against the Microsoft Windows NT, '98 and '95 platforms. The Java applet that the Ericom package is based upon is less that less than 100 kilobytes. Powerterm Java works in a client/server environment and makes use of Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS) standards. More information is available via Ericom's Web home page at http://www.ericom.com.

A new alliance between Singapore Telecom (Singtel) and Cisco Systems is hoped to bring new Internet networking capabilities to Singapore. Singtel and Cisco will be able to provide IP-aware and IP/Virtual Private Network (VPN) services, a local Frame Relay network, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) technology, and next-generation multi-service networks that integrate data, voice and video. Singtel will also work towards certifying its services under the Cisco Powered Network program and designate Cisco Systems as its preferred vendor for internetworking products and technologies.

New, higher-speed Internet service will become available for the New York area from Bell Atlantic through its Infospeed DSL, Bell's offering for state-of-the-art Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) access technology. Bell is promising Internet access as high as 126 times 56 Kilobits per second (Kbps), depending upon the Infospeed package.