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From: cwd@cuae2.UUCP (Chris Donahue)
Newsgroups: net.micro.att
Subject: Re: Open architecture of AT&T computers?
Message-ID: <378@cuae2.UUCP>
Date: Mon, 22-Jul-85 17:05:31 EDT
Article-I.D.: cuae2.378
Posted: Mon Jul 22 17:05:31 1985
Date-Received: Thu, 25-Jul-85 05:11:02 EDT
References: <1701@ecsvax.UUCP>
Reply-To: cwd@cuae2.UUCP (Chris Donahue)
Organization: AT&T-IS, /app/eng, Lisle, IL
Lines: 41
Keywords: OEM/VAR
Summary:  Open Architecture is ...

I have replied by mail to this question a few times but this time
I will post to everyone.

AT&T supports "Open Architecture" for the 3B2 and 3B5 Computers. When we
get the info. the UNIX PC will be added to the list.

What do we define as "Open Architecture"? The ability to assist/support the
development of additional hardware in the form of add-ons or replacements
for parts we supply (such as disk drives). Also included in this is the
development of new device drivers and system modules.

Who is eligible? OEM and VAR customers of AT&T.

Why? Detailed system schematics and access to all system source code
(including most firmware) is done under non-disclosure with companies
that have source licenses. In some cases the source license is not
necessary. OEMs and VARs have the expertise to do this type of development
without massive support and public domain publishing of design documents.
Besides, that's how they earn their keep and how AT&T can enter markets
that VARs understand.

What do we offer? Courses and documentation on how to write device drivers
and design I/O cards. Documentation on low level development tools is
available also. My group provides consultation to VARs and OEMs. We
answer their questions, provide needed items, and do what needs to be done
to assist in their developments.

Today's emphasis? The 3B2 family. We have all the aforementioned items
available for the 3B2. The 3B5 comes second but there are difficulties
supporting the product due to the nature of the I/O card design.
(We produce special gate arrays that exist on each card). The UNIX PC
will have similar documentation and courses available in the future.
(Yes, I wish we were ready now).

I hope that answers your question. By the way, Ducommun Data Systems and
UNICORE (two of our master VARs) provide similar support for their
VARs.

Chris Donahue
AT&T Info. Sys.
Application Engineering