GOVERNMENT

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO -- SANcastle(R) Technologies, Inc., manufacturer of the world's first multi-protocol switch for integrating Fibre Channel and Ethernet networks reports successful completion of SANworks(TM) Data Replication Manager by Compaq Computer Corporation interoperability testing. The SANcastle GFS-8(TM) is a true, multi-protocol, full-function switch that seamlessly integrates disparate networks and protocols and provides seamless bi-directional integration of Fibre Channel and Gigabit Ethernet networks over long distances without disruption or technology changes. It offers multi-point SAN island integration across MANs or WANs and e-port for inter-switch connectivity with other Fibre Channel switches. This allows not only remote connectivity, but also disparate island connectivity for enterprises that have already deployed different configurations for various SAN islands. The unique IP translation capability of the switch enables enterprises to fully realize the benefits of Ethernet and Fibre Channel. "By incorporating the GFS-8 into SANworks Data Replication Manager, Compaq is able to offer additional transport media to its customers," said Mark Sorenson, vice president, Compaq Storage Software and Solutions Division. "This means transparent access to existing network infrastructures for SANcastle and Compaq StorageWorks customers." "Data replication is one of the primary applications that takes advantage of interconnecting disparate FC SANs via IP networks," said Nancy Marrone, senior analyst, The Enterprise Storage Group. "By enabling companies to use existing, lower cost IP infrastructure for data replication purposes, SANcastle and Compaq are providing companies the ability to develop a DR plan that may have been cost prohibitive in the past." "Increasingly, corporate storage assets are being separated by long distances, complicating their accessibility and administration," said Peter Dixon, executive vice president of sales and marketing, SANcastle. "Working jointly with Compaq allows customers to leverage their existing network infrastructures by combining their widely separated resources." For further information visit www.sancastle.com