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ReachOut 5.0 for Windows & DOS

review by Jeff Zubricky, Alamo PC

Would you like to have "Complete Remote Access" while you are away from your home or office computer? ReachOut 5.0 for Windows & DOS promises to give you everything you need. You can access and control a remote computer just as if you were sitting there. You can edit documents, check your e-mail, run programs, update spreadsheets and databases, transfer files, and share resources. The program is ideal for Telecommuters, Home Office Workers, Mobile Executives, Road Warriors, Technical Support and Network Help Desks.

ReachOut comes with a printed manual which I found very helpful and informative, the on-line help within the program was easily accessible. I recommend that you read the first two chapters of the manual before you begin the installation, you will need to be prepared to fill in some information during the installation of the software. Installation was performed with the help of ReachOut's Setup Pilot, which walks you all the way through the setup process. This program is so full featured, I suggest that you take the time to read the manual completely before, during, or after installation.

 The ReachOut program needs to be installed on a "Viewer" and a "Host" computer. The computer Connection Types available to you are:
 
 

  1. Modem ReachOut handles hundreds of different modem types. You can even define a new modem if yours isn't listed.
  2. Network ReachOut handles the most common networks, including Novell's Netware, Microsoft LAN, Manager's NetBIOS, Banyan VINES, Windows Sockets, and FTP TCP/IP networks.
  3. Modem Pool/ACS ReachOut handles common ACS arrangements for sharing modems.
  4. Direct Connect Cable ReachOut lets you control a computer connected by a null modem cable to your computer through the COM ports.
  5. Internet ReachOut sets you up to use Windows Sockets network protocol.
  6. Remote Node ReachOut lets you connect over a network that you joined using remote node software.
  7. Cellular Modem ReachOut lets you choose a cellular modem.
  8. ISDN Modem ReachOut lets you choose a modem attached to an ISDN line.
Test driving ReachOut was a blast, to have control over a computer that you are remotely connected to gives you a real since of power and control. I used a Hayes Compatible 14400 bps modem for my tests, the program will run with a 2400 bps modem but a 9600 bps or higher modem is recommended. The file-transfer performance is excellent due to Stac's LZS compression. ReachOut's security was impressive, providing password aging, time-limited connection times, individual audit logs, in addition to the basic security features. ReachOut's anti-virus can automatically scan for infected files when you copy them from a host PC. Configuration of the program is not a problem, you can personalize ReachOut to fit your specific needs.

 I tried to "un-install" ReachOut by using the un-install icon within the program group, and I must say I was happy to see it worked very well. The program cleaned up after itself nicely; it would be a lot easier on PC users if software companies would put a reliable un-install function in the software they release.
 
 

System Requirements:

Product support is provided from a number of sources including Stac Fax, the Internet, CompuServe, America Online, and the Stac Bulletin Board. Phone Support is provided free for 90 days after the date of your first call, an industry standard. Stac Premier 900 service is available at a charge $2.50 a minute. Stac maintains a nice web site that contains software patches, a configuration guide, a list of major companies now using ReachOut and, best of all, a test drive package, good for 30 days, that you can download from their site for free.

 The suggested retail price is $109.95 directly from Stac at 1-800-677-6232, typical street price is $99.98 .
 
 

(Dave’s Note:) Alamo PC Member Special Price! Get it NOW by calling 1-800-522-7822 ext. U111 and it’s yours for $49.95 plus $5.50 shipping. This is a special user group member only offer direct from Stac.