You are here: Perle Index > AS/400 Controllers > Model 3i

Model 3i Controllers

The Perle Model 3i is a flexible, cost-effective ASCII workstation controller that connects ASCII devices, such as dial-in PCs printers and terminals to the IBM AS/400.

On the host side, the Perle Model 3i attaches to a twinax port. On the network side, by attaching low-cost PC modems to the RS-232 ports on the Model 3i, users with a wide variety of PCs, terminals and printers can dial-in and connect to the host. Dial-in users just need an inexpensive PC-type (asynchronous) modem and 5250 terminal emulation software, such as PerleTALK; no emulation cards are needed, resulting in both cost and space savings in the PC. The Perle Model 3i is available with 1, 3, 5 or 7 ports, depending on the number of concurrent users required. Ports not required for dial-up access can be used for direct-attach devices such as LaserJet printers or ASCII terminals. The Model 3i has many benefits for both the dial-in user and the system administrator. For dial-in users the Model 3i speeds connection to applications using an automated sign-on feature. Users also save time when the Model 3i's dynamic port configuration is combined with the phone company's hunt-group feature allowing the dial-in user to be connected to the first free port with no redialing required.

For the system administrator the number of ports and phone lines for dial-in users can be reduced as ports do not have to be allocated for each type of device dialing-in. Additionally, the Model 3i enables remote terminals or PCs to emulate a local terminal, so a system administrator's tasks can be managed from a remote PC or terminal, if needed.

Features and Benefits:

• Supports 5250 terminal emulation packages including PerleTALK for Windows or DOS. PerleTALK is optimized to provide many useful productivity features when used in conjunction with the Perle Model 3i.
• ASCII impact or laser printers, such as the HP LaserJet (for DisplayWrite or OfficeVision applications) are supported as auxiliary printers on remote PCs, or can be directly-connected to the Perle Model 3i without the need for twinax emulation boards.
• Built-in multi-session support, which allows a single user to access up to seven sessions concurrently, without needing to log off and on to change applications.
• Easy to use and manage

Extended Feature List

• Password-protected Master Configuration: Prevents unauthorized changes to Perle Model 3i Master Configuration file
• Increased password security: Adds to existing host security by preventing unauthorized users from accessing the Perle Model 3i
• File transfer supported with appropriate PC and host software: Makes PCs more productive by bringing host data into PC for processing/analysis
• Flexible keyboard remapping: Increases user productivity by configuring keyboard to match application
• Front-panel LEDs display host and device status on all ports: Speeds installation and problem diagnosis
• 132-column support using PerleTALK 5250 emulation software: Increases productivity with applications that can take advantage of 132 columns
• DTE/DCE (modem/direct attach) switch-selectable for each port: Simplifies installation - no adapter cables required
• On-line 5250-style configuration available from any port: Improves uptime and flexibility by allowing an authorized user to reconfigure the ASCII network from any terminal
• International language support: Configuration and operational screens are available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish
• Reconnect timer: Keeps session active even if poor quality lines cause disconnect - using a reconnect password user can dial-back in and regain their session
• Inactivity timer: Disconnects terminal if not used for a specified period of time, freeing port for other users and reduces connection charges
• Group name support: User can decide at connect time whether to select a printer - optimizes use of available addresses
• Screen optimization: For faster data response times