Java platform offers cost-effective
solution for future networks

The JavaEngine 1, from Sun Microsystems (Palo Alto, CA), is a densely integrated system board targeted for the future demands of network computing, where size, cost, and total compatibility factors are already crucial and promise to become even more so. Corporate computing appears to be moving away from complete, standalone PC workstations (fat clients) and toward minimal, monitor-and-keyboard-only workstations (thin clients). In fact, International Data Corp. (San Francisco, CA) predicts the thin-client market will exceed 7 million units by the year 2000.

The JavaEngine 1 is driven by the microSparc-IIep processor that integrates external functions in order to reduce chip count and board size. Features include a 32-entry translation-lookaside-buffer memory-management unit, a direct interface to flash memory, a direct program-mable DRAM interface, a 16-Kbyte instruction cache, and an 8-Kbyte data cache. The board also integrates a 32-bit PCI local-bus interface that supports up to four PCI slots, Ethernet accelerators, and color graphics. The entire board measures 7 (L) x 7 (W) in.

Dedicated to the Java computing platform, the JavaEngine 1 system
board provides full Internet, intranet, infranet, and networking capabilities.

Motherboard features include two 64-bit 168-pin DIMM slots supporting up to 64-Mbytes of DRAM, a 10/100Base-TX Ethernet interface, up to 2 Mbytes of EDO video memory, and 1 Mbyte of flash PROM. An additional 8 Mbytes of NAND flash memory for the local JavaOS operating system and Java applications is optional. The use of VGA and mini-DIN connectors allows the implementation of low-cost standard peripherals.

Implementation of the JavaEngine 1 can be accomplished one of two ways. Using the board alone will be the quickest way for vendors to get to market. Alternatively, Sun Microsystems' design kit can be used in conjunction with the JavaEngine 1 to customize systems to specific applications. In many cases, vendors will use both approaches, getting to market rapidly with boards and then targeting specific applications through the use of the design kit.

Java applications are compatible with a wide range of platforms, from Unix servers to PCs and telephones. Software included with the JavaEn- gine 1 are JavaOS and HotJava Views, which includes a Web browser, e-mail, a calendar, and a name directory.

The JavaEngine 1 is expected to be available this quarter and will be priced at $385 in quantities of 10,000. For more information, contact Caroline Phillips of Sun Microsystems at 408-544-0288 or visit http://sun.com.