Cisco this week unveiled an enhanced third-party application module for its branch office routers that offers increased memory and performance over previous versions.

The Linux-based AXP Network Module 502 runs on the company's 2800 and 3800 Series Integrated Services Routers (ISR). (Compare access routers.)  

The module supports an emulated application development blade that uses VMware Player, which is client software that lets developers  build applications on their PCs and port them onto AXP modules. This lets developers write applications for the AXP without having to purchase and receive from shipment the actual module, Cisco says.

Cisco also announced two AXP third-party application partners: Global Protocols, which writes satellite communications applications; and Tiani Spirit, which develops healthcare imaging software.

Cisco rolled out its first AXP module in April. It is intended to offer tighter integration between the branch office network and business applications.

Cisco this week also is launching a competition for AXP developers. In the "Think Inside the Box" developer contest, entrants develop a proposal to build AXP applications for a $50,000 first prize, $30,000 second prize and $20,000 third prize.

The contest opens Oct. 14. The first phase involving proposal submission ends on Jan. 12, 2009, after which as many as 10 finalists will be chosen to enter the second phase to develop applications on the AXP platform. Winners will be announced in May 2009.

Entrants can go to www.cisco.com/go/thinkinside for judging criteria and terms and conditions.