R&M launches port monitoring cables to free infrastructure managers from manual tasks

R&M is introducing Port Monitoring cables into the data center market. The innovation is making interconnect architectures fully transparent for the first time. The solution monitors all fiber optic connections of the switches, servers and storage devices, and enables digitalized management of the networks. The connections between active devices and patch panels can be documented, visualized and checked seamlessly in real time. The solution displays the status, errors and changes centrally at the administrators' workplaces. They no longer have to walk through the rows of cabinets and monitor thousands of connections themselves.

The new development consists of RFID miniature antennas (tags) and two-millimeter OM4 FO cables. The tags are fixed on the ports of the active devices. The cables establish the connection to the automated infrastructure management system R&MinteliPhy. There is no need for additional hardware in the patch panel or network cabinet. 

R&M identifies the connections using uniquely coded tags. It recognizes the status of the active devices and free ports. R&MinteliPhy documents new connections and any exchanged devices in real time. It knows immediately whether patch cords were plugged in or unplugged according to plan and, if necessary, emits an alarm. Sources of error can be localized precisely and patching errors rectified faster than ever before. R&M estimates time savings of at least 30 percent in comparison to the standard administration processes to date.

R&M can generate and standardize assignments for service technicians, display them in the sensor bar at the rack as well as monitor them. The system helps plan and control Moves, Adds & Changes (MAC). Administrators can detect risks and lack of resources at an earlier stage. It takes just a few clicks of the mouse to create proof for audits.

The port monitoring cables harmonize with FO connectors of the type R&M LC-QR. The solution is currently compatible with the Ultra-High Density patch panel R&M Netscale.