Alacritech Revolutionizes Network Performance with SLIC Technology

Strategic Insights -

Alacritech, Inc. has announced a groundbreaking technology called SLIC (session layer interface card), designed to significantly improve server performance in the Internet, corporate networks, and network-based applications. Founded by industry leader Larry Boucher, inventor of the SCSI interface, Alacritech aims to provide high-performance server adapters that deliver 800% performance improvements in server CPU performance and network throughput.

Key Takeaways:

  • Alacritech's SLIC Technology boasts 800% performance improvements in server CPU performance and network throughput.
  • The technology offloads protocol processing from the host CPU to a custom Internet Protocol Processor (IPP), freeing up CPU resources and improving server efficiency.
  • Alacritech's server adapters are available in two- and four-port 10/100 configurations, targeted at enterprise users, system integrators, and computer system OEMs.
  • The multi-port design supports aggregation of multiple ports to deliver Gigabit performance, making it easier for customers to upgrade their systems without significant expense or time.
  • Alacritech's products are compatible with legacy network adapters, Ethernet, TCP/IP, and standard PC hardware and software, ensuring seamless integration.
  • Independent tests by ZD Labs showed that Alacritech adapters outperformed Intel adapters in every NetBench 6.0 test, with significant improvements in aggregate throughput, response time, and CPU utilization.
  • Alacritech's products feature a P/E Index ratio that demonstrates an 812% advantage over Intel's in certain tests.
  • The company will market its products through a direct sales force and a network of international distributors, with pricing starting at $299 for the Alacritech 100x2 Dual-Port Server Adapter and $599 for the Alacritech 100x4 Quad-Port Server Adapter.

Statistics:

  • Alacritech's SLIC Technology delivers 800% performance improvements in server CPU performance and network throughput.
  • The technology offloads protocol processing from the host CPU to a custom Internet Protocol Processor (IPP), freeing up CPU resources and improving server efficiency by up to 97% (compared to Intel's 100% utilization).
  • Independent tests showed that Alacritech adapters outperformed Intel adapters in every NetBench 6.0 test, with aggregate throughput improvements of up to 873 Mbits/sec (compared to 425 Mbits/sec for Intel's adapters).
  • Alacritech's products achieved response time advantages of up to 50% over Intel's adapters.
  • Alacritech's P/E Index Ratio was up to 812% better than Intel's in certain tests.
  • Pricing for the Alacritech 100x2 Dual-Port Server Adapter starts at $299, and the Alacritech 100x4 Quad-Port Server Adapter starts at $599.

Sources:

  • BUSINESS WIRE, "Alacritech Introduces SLIC Technology to Revolutionize Network Performance" (April 10, 2000)
  • Alacritech, Inc. website, www.alacritech.com
  • ZD Labs website, www.zdlabs.com
  • ZD Labs test report, www.alacritech.com/benchmarks.html
  • Intel PRO/100+ server adapter specifications
  • Alacritech, Inc. press releases (April 10, 2000)