Apple Introduces An Easy-to-Use Software Bridge for Connecting LocalTalk to
Ethernet or Token Ring Networks

CUPERTINO, California--December 19, 1994--As part of its continuing
strategy to provide easy-to-use and cost-effective networking solutions,
Apple Computer, Inc. today announced the Apple LocalTalk Bridge. The
LocalTalk Bridge software is designed to allow customers with Macintosh
computers, printers or Newton MessagePad personal digital assistants,
connected on a LocalTalk network, to connect to other computers and
services on Ethernet or Token Ring networks easily and
effectively--without the hassle of switching network connections.

"With the new bridge software, our networking customers can easily upgrade
their Macintosh systems to enjoy the speed benefits from using Ethernet or
Token Ring networking solutions while maintaining a seamless connection to
LocalTalk-based systems and LaserWriter printers," said Karen Quek,
product line manager for Apple Business Systems' Connectivity Division.
"Many of our customers have been looking for an affordable way to extend
the networking reach of their current systems and our LocalTalk Bridge
helps them to do this."

The new software performs AppleTalk-based bridging between the LocalTalk
port and one other selected network connection, such as a built-in
EtherTalk connection. The second network connection can be a built-in
Ethernet port or another network interface card such as an Apple Ethernet
or Token Ring card.

The Apple LocalTalk Bridge, which is as easy to install as dragging a file
into a folder, can be configured to allow "private" or "public" access to
LocalTalk network segment. This allows users to dynamically control access
to devices on the attached LocalTalk segment such as an Apple PowerBook
computer or a LaserWriter printer. At the same time, all users will be
able to connect to the Ethernet- or Token Ring-based network resources
such as file servers, databases and electronic mail.

Apple today also introduced the Apple LaserWriter Bridge, which allows
Macintosh computers on Ethernet or Token Ring networks to print on
LaserWriter printers on a LocalTalk network. Apple intends to make the
LaserWriter Bridge available on its Network Software Installer Disk
(version 1.5), which contains the latest AppleTalk files, and Apple
Ethernet and Apple Token Ring card network software.

Availability and Pricing

The Apple LocalTalk Bridge is expected to be available through Apple
authorized resellers by the end of February. It is Apple priced at $99 in
the U.S. Pricing and availability may vary outside the U.S. Customers can
locate a nearby Apple reseller by calling the Apple Reseller Referral Line
at (800) 538-9696.

The Network Software Installer (version 1.5), including the Apple
LaserWriter Bridge software, is also expected to be available by the end
of February. It will be available free-of-charge on several on- line
services, including AppleLink, eWorld and the Internet (ftp.apple.com).
Requests for the Network Software Installer can also be made by fax to the
Apple Network Information Fax Line at (408) 974-7977. Customers who want
more information on the Apple LocalTalk Bridge or Apple LaserWriter Bridge
can contact the Apple Network Information Line at (408) 862-3385, or by
AppleLink at ABS.NETINFO.

Apple Computer, Inc., a recognized pioneer and innovator in the information
industry, creates powerful solutions based on easy to use personal
computers, servers, peripherals, software, online services, and personal
digital assistants. Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Apple
(NASDAQ:AAPL) develops, manufactures, licenses and markets products,
technologies and services for the business, education, consumer,
scientific & engineering and government markets in over 140 countries.

Apple Computer Inc
20525 Mariana Ave
Cupertino, CA 95014
408-996-1010

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