ImageStream Internet Solutions this week introduced a low-cost access router, one that can be rack-mounted and can support more ports than previous models.

I have to admit, I'm not very familiar with ImageStream. Network World rarely writes about the company or its products, but it does show up in our buyer's guides on access routers and enterprise core routers. Plus, an ImageStream router was reviewed as part of this 2003 test.

ImageStream is based outside of Indianapolis. It was founded in 1995 and has focused on Linux-based routers and firewalls. It has built up much of its business (39%, according to its Web site) on OEM deals, which helps to explain its low profile.

If you have experience with ImageStream products, let me know.

The new product is called the Envoy 1U, a low-cost router for small and medium-sized business and ISPs. ImageStream says the device routes two T-1/E-1 or synchronous serial interfaces at line speed. As the name suggests, it fits into one rack-unit. It can support up to two HD26 connectors for synchronous serial ports, and up to three LAN or WAN modules that use modular connectors such as RJ-48 for T1/E1 and RJ-45 for Ethernet.

The base router includes a 266-MHz CPU, 128 MB of RAM, two ports of 10/100Mbps Ethernet, support for ImageStream's line of T1/E1 and synchronous serial WAN cards, and, of course, ImageStream's Linux router distribution.

The base unit costs $799, and can be bundled with one T-1/E-1 or sync serial port for $999, or two T-1/E-1 or sync serial ports for $1,299.

Jeff Caruso is site editor at Network World.