HP e3000 sites delivering mission-critical data using the system’s ODBCLink/SE software can extend their database connectivity with an upgrade from ODBCLink’s creators.

MB Foster is offering its MBF-UDALink, with functions to support certified Java connectivity, native TurboIMAGE access, Microsoft’s .NET standards and remote procedure calls, provides a pathway for data with flexibility for a multiple-host environment. “Changes in HP’s 3000 strategy have made the connectivity of MBF-UDALink more critical than ever” said MB Foster’s founder Birket

“ODBCLink/SE was a great starter kit, and that was our whole idea in providing it to HP for use in the IMAGE/SQL and Allbase databases” Foster said. “But staying with ODBCLink/SE won’t prepare you for the data exchange in many of situations that will appear in a changing HP e3000 environment.”

HP’s announcement of an end of 3000 support in 2006 means other platforms will be hosting the 3000’s data. MBF-UDALink provides the means to move data between many more environments with full functionality.

“If you’re going to innovate before you migrate — something we think every HP 3000 customer should be considering — you want get the same kind of data access functionality on both your HP 3000 and your new platforms,” Foster said. “MBF-UDALink and its add-on modules make you ready for the future, no matter where you choose to take your data.”

MBF-UDALink provides access to HP e3000 KSAM and MPE data files and PowerHouse files, as well as direct support of TurboIMAGE without relying on SQL database environment files. But the software also offers secure SSL transfer through its ODBC driver, a Java-certified J2EE module, support for multiple sockets and remote procedure calls. All are functions that carry data to platforms where ODBCLink/SE isn’t able to go.

MB Foster is also offering a “Take It With You” program that transfers HP e3000 editions of UDALink to UNIX platforms when a customer chooses to migrate away from the HP e3000. MBF-UDALink’s powerful batch reporting capabilities also include generating output in XML format, Microsoft’s designated default for all data in the Office Suite and other Microsoft applications.

The MB Foster software is the latest generation of technology that’s at the heart of HP’s database connectivity. Integrated with MPE/iX in 1997, ODBCLink/SE is designed and maintained by MB Foster’s labs, providing data access for thousands of HP e3000 servers throughout the world.

“This protects your investment in a data access tool that thousands of HP sites have come to rely upon,” Foster said. For information on MBF-UDALink upgrade packages tailored for ODBCLink/SE customers, contact MB Foster at 800.ANSWERS (267-9377).

About MB Foster

MB Foster, a provider of data access and delivery solutions to the Hewlett-Packard community for over 30 years, is a selected HP Platinum Migration Partner. The company provides migration planning, services and tools to assist HP e3000 customers in their move to other platforms, as well as proven data access solutions which drive mission-critical IT operations around the world. As a Certified Microsoft developer, an Oracle Partner, an IBM Business partner, and a Sun Development partner, MB Foster has a wealth of knowledge specifically focused on data – where all business logic and critical information resides.

The company is headquartered in Chesterville, Canada with offices in Texas, Washington, Ontario and British Columbia. For information on its distributors, products and services, visit www.mbfoster.com