Review of: |
| Quarterdeck's Procomm Connections claims to be the most reliable 32-bit
PC to Host connections. It connects to a variety of mini/mainframe systems
with 35 terminal emulations for fast, dependable remote access, includes
keyboard remapping to adding new command keys, acts as a centralized system
for all of your connections, includes 11 file transfer protocols, Telnet
and FTP clients, includes ASPECT scripting language to automate frequent
tasks, logons and to customize configuration options. You can use your
PC to send and receive information with unattended Host Mode, or print
from a remote host using a dedicated printer. It supports cross platform
Windows 95/NT4.0, TCP/IP, TAPI and is Year 2000 compliant.
This is my first experience since using a similar product, Delrina WinComm Pro, a few years back. Since that time, for the most part, ISP providers and access through the World Wide Web have fulfilled most of my communication needs. That may be why Quarterdeck's target market for this software program is information systems professionals, corporate application developers, corporate resellers, VARs and system integrators. The software installed effortlessly, automatically determined the type of modem I use, assisted in configuring the program for my ISP connection, and immediately attempted an FTP connection to Quarterdeck where I (with "drag and drop" ease) downloaded several patches and updates. Although none of my downloads was interrupted, Quarterdeck claims that it will pick up where it left off if interrupted. I used Procomm Connections terminal emulation to access the Alamo PC bulletin board and downloaded its navigator program. The manual also included simulations instructing you how to connect in various ways and also included a tutorial on its ASPECT scripting language which facilitates automating frequent tasks and setting up unattended sessions. Minimum requirements are Intel compatible PC running Windows 95 or NT 4.0, VGA or better display, CD-ROM drive for installation, 8 MB of RAM for Windows 95 (16 MB RAM recommended), 16 MB RAM for Windows NT 4.0 (32 MB RAM recommended), and 25 MB disk space for full installation. ProComm Connections supports TAPI-compliant modems (14,400 bps or better recommended), direct serial connections, and Winsock 1.1-compliant dial-up or network TCP/IP. This program can be ordered directly from Quarterdeck and at some of the local retailers for about $120 and a 10-user pack costs about $1079. The Connection Directory is useful for storing all types of connection information for any one source; for example, Quarterdeck's listing included all the information required to connect to via FTP, terminal emulation, telnet or voice. All in all, if you require a program that centralizes a number of connections for various sources, this program is more than adequate to handle the task. For its ease of use and number of features, I heartily recommend this software program if you are interested in setting up your own bulletin board or if you are responsible some type of network system. However, if you are a casual user of FTP and bulletin boards, the cost of this software product may not justify the cost. Quarterdeck Corporation, 13160 Mindanao Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292 can be contacted at (800) 683-6696 or (800) 354-3329 (FAX), email: info@quarterdeck.com, online store: http://www.quarterdeck.com/qdeck/howbuy; web site: http:/www.quarterdeck.com/ Cynthia Burris is an attorney residing and practicing law in Lytle, Texas and can be reached at CynBurris@aol.com. |