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Complete listing of June 1996 reviews
By Rich Castagna
Anyone who's used a remote control program knows the feeling. A couple of rings and you wonder if the host machine is still running and ready. The Power On/Off+Aux, a modem-sized box, can erase those doubts and give you the power to control-the power. The Power On/Off+Aux lets you control not only what the host PC does, but also when it operates by letting you turn its power on and off.
When setting up the unit, you create a mare's nest of wires. Phone lines run from your wall jack to the box, and from the box to your modem. Another line-a special "Y" connector supplied with the unit-connects to the box, to the plug adapter, and to a serial or parallel port on the host PC.
To put the setup in a ready mode, push the adapter switch to the "0" position and power up the host. Lights flash on the box for a few seconds, then-voilˆ!-the system comes to life. When the remote session is concluded and the software disconnects the modem, the Power On/Off+Aux reverses the process and shuts the system down. The serial/parallel port connection, along with a tiny applet, ensures that Windows 95 shuts down appropriately.
The "+Aux" part of Power On/Off+Aux indicates it can also hook up to a fax or answering machine. If one of these devices is connected, you use a two-call routine to help the Power On/Off+Aux determine how to route the call.
The Power On/Off+Aux is a simple solution that can trim your electric bill and provide an extra measure of security for unattended hosts.
Info File
Server Technology Power On/Off+Aux
Price: $169.95
Pros: Ease of use; security; saves energy
Cons: Documentation; requires serial or parallel port
Platforms: Windows 95, 3.1x
Server Technology
800-835-1515, 408-745-0300
WinMag Box Score: 3.5
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