R&M develops Service Package for Network Monitoring  

R&M, the globally active Swiss developer and provider of cabling systems for high-end, powerful network infrastructures, is supporting Data Centres with a new service package. Customers and users of the automated infrastructure management system R&MinteliPhy receive comprehensive support from the planning stage through to the ongoing operation of the system. Trained and certified service partners provide first level support on site, on demand, and round the clock. The R&MinteliPhy Competence Centre at the R&M headquarters in Wetzikon is responsible for providing second level support.

Before the automated infrastructure management system R&MinteliPhy is installed, an inventory of the building or Data Centre’s cabling system is carried out by the service partner. Results of this survey and other current network documentation if available can then be transferred to the R&MinteliPhy database. "As part of the service package, our service partners ensure a precise and fast migration," explains R&M Product Manager Reinhard Burkert. R&M creates customized libraries and model templates for customers, enabling them to document and manage the entire infrastructure on the R&MinteliPhy server. Layout of networks, distributors, computer rooms, or company networks can be visualized and then combined with building plans or geographical site information. R&MinteliPhy automatically generates up-to-date connection plans if computers are integrated or patch connections are changed.

The service package includes installation and commissioning, and function and acceptance tests, as well as end user training and hardware maintenance. If required, R&M and the service partners organize the exchange of R&MinteliPhy devices or updating of software. Experts are also on call, providing any necessary support via e-mail and telephone, via a dedicated support website, or via remote access to the customer's R&MinteliPhy server. Customers are therefore guaranteed round-the-clock support once their network is up and running. "We want to ensure correct planning and installation and reliable operation for all R&MinteliPhy installations. We and our service partners do not leave customers alone operating their automated infrastructure management system," stresses Reinhard Burkert.

R&MinteliPhy is a system for automated infrastructure management (AIM) in Data Centres and local data networks. Every link can be monitored continually. A central server records the cabling status from a distance and at remote locations too. Its functions include the management, analysis, and planning of the cabling. The information obtained by R&MinteliPhy from a network improves the way in which the infrastructure is used. Unused patch panels and free active device ports can be detected immediately. R&MinteliPhy also supports the planning of work procedures. Parts lists for cabling or for network expansion can be generated automatically, as can work orders for installers or cable labels according to a predefined labelling scheme.