Epoch Integration Releases NeedTEXT Monitor version 2.5 with Roundtrip Message Verification for BlackBerry Enterprise Server

18 January 2006

r> TORONTO, Jan. 16 - Epoch Integration Inc., a leading provider of software solutions that enhance the capabilities of organizations responsible for the support of the BlackBerry(R) wireless platform, developed by Research In Motion (RIM) (Nasdaq: RIMM; TSX: RIM), today announced the release of version 2.5 of its NeedTEXT Monitor for BlackBerry Enterprise Server(TM).

The latest version of NeedTEXT Monitor adds, among other features, the ability to monitor and test the latency of email messages and Mobile Data Service data to and from BlackBerry Wireless Handhelds(TM).

NeedTEXT Monitor is a network management solution specifically designed to monitor BlackBerry Enterprise Server and BlackBerry Wireless Handhelds within enterprise organizations. The product has been adopted by many companies, such as BASF, Albertsons and Hyatt Hotels, looking to maximize the availability of their BlackBerry solution to handheld users. By providing automated, 24/7 monitoring, NeedTEXT Monitor proactively identifies system issues or events that could cause an interruption in BlackBerry service and sends detailed alerts to system administration staff. The software also gathers key performance metrics for the BlackBerry Enterprise Server and BlackBerry users, enabling reports and charts for use in everyday management of the BlackBerry deployment within the organization. For example, administrators can report on message activity across all of their BlackBerry Enterprise Servers simultaneously and use the resulting data for load balancing and capacity planning initiatives.

Version 2.5 of NeedTEXT Monitor responds to customer feedback by implementing Roundtrip Message Verification features, making it the first application management solution for BlackBerry Enterprise Server to provide latency monitoring to and from BlackBerry Wireless Handhelds. Administrators and other IT personnel now have the ability to monitor specific handheld users and verify that they can receive email messages and Mobile Data Service data to their handhelds. In addition, a new set of on-demand tests, including device ping, allow further diagnosis of handheld performance, enabling IT staff to more effectively troubleshoot support calls from handheld users. These features, combined with role-based web access to the NeedTEXT Monitor console, also allow customers to enable their help desk employees to troubleshoot handheld user issues.

Additional features added in version 2.5 of NeedTEXT Monitor include Network Management Framework Integration and SMS Alert Notifications. Network Management Framework Integration gives customers the ability to integrate NeedTEXT Monitor's alerts to other enterprise third-party network management solutions, such as Microsoft(R) Operations Manager, IBM Tivoli(R) and HP OpenView(R). SMS Alert Notifications enables IT staff to receive NeedTEXT Monitor's alerts via SMS or text messaging, directly from the NeedTEXT Monitor application and completely out of band from the enterprise email system.

Version 2.5 of NeedTEXT Monitor for BlackBerry Enterprise Server is available immediately, with support for Microsoft Exchange, IBM Lotus Domino and Novell GroupWise platforms. Customers should contact Epoch Integration Sales for more information or to obtain a free evaluation. Visit http://www.needtext.net/besmon.

About Epoch Integration

Epoch Integration Inc. is a leading developer of enterprise software for businesses using the BlackBerry wireless platform, developed by Research In Motion. The company's products, including the popular NeedTEXT suite, are focused on enhancing the capabilities of organizations responsible for the implementation, management and support of BlackBerry solutions. The company currently provides network management solutions to such high-profile customers as TD Securities, Walmart.com and the U.S. Army, in addition to small and medium-sized businesses around the globe. Founded in 1997, Epoch Integration is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Visit http://www.epochintegration.com.

The BlackBerry and RIM families of related marks, images and symbols are the exclusive properties and trademarks of Research In Motion Limited. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Source: prnewswire