Generally HOBLink X11, V.4.6. was made to match the latest standard X Window System 6.4. and the display of color detph was improved remarkably. Besides a color depth of 8bit, also HighColor (16 Bit) and TrueColor (24 Bit) are supported. Additionally HOBLink X11 allows replaying video files (AVI and MPG files) and displaying them with high resolution, which according to HOB is to make HOBLink X11 outstanding from competitors' software.

As usual HOB focused on easy and comfortable user handling to reduce user errors to a minimum. Klaus Brandstätter, Chief of the Development department and founder comments: "All necessary options are logically structured and verbally clearly identified. The user does not need to select from a vast range of settings, which frequently turn out to be incomprehensible. This cuts training times drastically and allows users to work efficiently within little time.

HOBLink X11 Version 4.6. comes equipped with a macro recorder, which records frequently used key combinations and allows saving them to be ready on call. A macro editor supports creating and editing the required scripts. Another stand alone feature according to HOB is an integrated TCP/IP Tracer, tracing the data traffic between Client and Server, which ensures quick diagnoses in case errors occur.

Another function enhancement is the Euro compatibility, LBX support (Low Bandwidth X), an option introduced with the X11 Release 6.3 to accelerate the X11 protocol when transferring data via low bandwidths such as telephone wires with modem.

The FTP Client was also improved and now has adapted to "Look and Feel" of Microsoft's Explorer.

For cost effective administration HOB's additional product "HOBLink Distribution" allows preconfiguring single clients simply and fast including subsequent distribution of the software within the organization.

HOBLink X11 V.4.6 for Windows 95/98, Windows NT and Windows 2000 is available in German, English and French versions. The software distribution is based on the purchase of software licenses. Five software licenses for the application are priced at approximately US $ 500. A single license costs approximately US $ 310 including VAT. The software is marketed by HOB's wide spread net of distributors.

HOBLink X11 - Wanted

Besides the classic use in the field of CAD, HOBLink X11 contributes to return on investment of existing hardware. By supporting Windows NT implementations such as WinDD by Tektronix, Wincenter Pro by NCD and Hydra by Microsoft "Low-End PCs" can be easily intergrated into Multi-User NT-networks.

The major component is the "Multiple X Server" function. It allows simultaneous processing several graphic applications stored on different hosts (X Clients) running parallel with classic Windows applications as well as data exchange between X Windows System and Microsoft Windows. Apart from that X Client sessions already launched can be run on different network nodes with the heterogeneous environment appearing to the PC as a uniform system.

To monitor the host sessions the integrated X server functions support three display modes: Multiple Window Mode, Single Window Mode and Full Screen Mode. For window management HOBLink X11 supports HOBLink X11 Desktop Window Manager, Common Desktop Environment (CDE), Motif, Open Look and others.

The application considers four methods to establish multiple sessions with various hosts. Connections can be made via the provided Telnet Telnet terminal emulation HOBLink VT525, via the XDisplay Manager Control Protocol (XDMCP), via the REXEC protocol or via RSH protocol. Interactive installation and configuration tools allow maximum customization of the software to match the respective environment. The procedure of launching a session can be entirely automated using HOBLink X11 Startup. Icons with stored scripts can be enabled and assigned to any program folder for easy handling. In the meantime the user may take advantage of the Windows-like "Look and Feel" of FTP to transfer data.