Avaya Inc, a global leader in business communications solutions and services, recently announced the iPatch monitoring system; an intelligent system that broadens cable network management monitoring capabilities. The iPatch system gives real-time status of voice and data port connections, and speeds and improves accuracy of patch cord installations.
Through a combination of software and electronically-enabled hardware, the iPatch system increases productivity and precision in maintaining networks by continuously monitoring and recording the status of port connections at the patch panel. The iPatch system tracks the location, availability and use of ports and creates a connectivity map showing patch cord links between the network equipment and user voice and data workstation outlets. The connectivity map can be viewed at any time from a remote PC or from the iPatch system equipment in the telecommunications room. The iPatch system automatically updates the map every time a port change occurs, helping to assure that system administrators always have an accurate picture of their status. System administrators can use their computer to easily schedule work orders, track their fulfilment and receive immediate alerts when unauthorized port connections or disconnections occur.
"Most businesses today rely on paper records or electronic spread sheets to keep track of changes to port connections," said George Brooks, iPatch system product manager, Avaya. "Over time, the records can get out of sync with the reality. The only way to confirm the actual status may be to physically go to the telecommunications room and trace patch cord connections by hand - a time-consuming task with uncertain consequences. Incorrect information can trigger costly mistakes that disrupt business.
The iPatch system eliminates questionable records, making it easier to quickly and accurately perform patch cord moves, adds and changes and thus minimizing the risk of unnecessary downtime." The iPatch system guides technicians with visual and audio prompts as they make patch cord connections. iPatch system panels are equipped with trace buttons and LEDs above each port. The panels communicate with iPatch system Rack Managers outfitted with LCD displays. When system administrators generate work orders for moves, adds and changes, the Rack Managers display the involved ports on the LCD, and the LEDs above both of the ports are lit. Technicians can also identify and display both ends of installed patch cords using one-button tracing. An audible "positive" or "negative" sound informs technicians if a connection is properly completed.
The iPatch system accommodates a standard modular patch cord, and consists of iPatch System Manager Software, iPatch Network Manager, iPatch Rack Managers and iPatch Panels. The iPatch Panel is built on the SYSTIMAX1100 panel design and is available in 24 or 48 port configurations for SYSTIMAX GigaSPEED or SYSTIMAX Power Sum applications. A typical configuration includes a single Network Manager supporting up to 99 iPatch Rack Managers, which support up to 40 iPatch 24-port panels.
The iPatch system will be available for ordering globally beginning April 2, 2001, through Avaya`s worldwide network of authorized Connectivity Solutions BusinessPartners. To find BusinessPartners serving a specific region, go to http://connectivity.avaya.com and use the "contact us" feature.
The iPatch system will be demonstrated at CeBIT in Hanover, Germany, on March 22-28, Telecommunications Hall (16), Booth#D08.
Avaya`s SYSTIMAX Structured Connectivity Solutions, the company`s premier structured cabling system for commercial applications, are available worldwide through authorized BusinessPartners. SYSTIMAX is an open, modular cabling solution, capable of simultaneously carrying data, voice, video and intelligent building management applications. The SYSTIMAX family of products, including the SYSTIMAX GigaSPEED copper solution as well as OptiSPEED and LazrSPEED fibre solutions are backed by an industry-leading product warranty and applications assurance guarantee. More information about Avaya`s Connectivity Solutions can be found at the web site, http://connectivity.avaya.com.
Share
Avaya
Avaya, headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., USA, is a leading provider of communications systems for enterprises, including businesses, government agencies and other organizations. Avaya offers converged voice and data, customer relationship management, messaging, voice multi-service networking and structured cabling products and services. Avaya is a worldwide leader in sales of messaging and structured cabling systems and a U.S. leader in sales of enterprise voice communications and call centre systems. Avaya intends to use its leadership positions in enterprise communications systems and software, its broad portfolio of products and services, and strategic alliances with other technology and consulting services leaders to offer its customers comprehensive eBusiness solutions.
For more information about Avaya, visit its Web site at http://www.avaya.com.