Sun Unveils Software Allowing Servers to Run Windows NT

Sun Microsystems Inc., which makes computers that run Internet sites, unveiled new products that will work with Microsoft Corp.’s rival operating system, Windows NT, a move that pushed Sun’s shares up 7.6%.

Sun Chief Executive Scott McNealy has openly downplayed the capabilities of Microsoft’s Windows NT, used to run corporate computer networks. Still, analysts had expected Sun eventually would make some software and parts work with the rival system to profit from Windows NT’s sales growth.

“They are trying to open more doors,” said analyst Daniel Kunstler of J.P. Morgan Securities. “It’s good in terms of helping them satisfy a customer requirement.”

Palo Alto-based Sun introduced software that lets its servers that power computer networks work with Windows NT.

In addition, Sun’s high-powered workstations, used by designers and engineers, can run Windows NT applications with a new card that can be inserted into the machine.

The company said its Stor-Edge storage systems are now compatible with Windows NT.

Sun had been the only workstation maker that didn’t make an NT-compatible machine.

Sun shares jumped $10.63 to close at $140.63 on the Nasdaq.