Introduction

Network communications are a vital part of the day-to-day operations within an organization. The communication’s infrastructure is even more critical today as organizations continue to invest in the latest advancements in computers, high-speed networks, and cabling systems. As the complexity and speed of the networking infrastructure increase, so does the importance of reducing down time due to LAN failures and moves, adds, and changes (MACs) of network users.
 

To minimize LAN down time and streamline the MAC process, an effective management system that documents the cable plant has become a critical addition to the physical layer infrastructure.
 

To provide this infrastructure management system, AMP NETCONNECT, along with software partner iTRACS, has developed an intelligent structured cabling management solution called AMPTRAC. This system uses network equipment and AMP NETCONNECT patch panels that contain or have been retrofitted with sensor pads above each RJ45 port, standard patch cord with an external 9th conductor, analyzers, which are active hardware components connected to the sensor pads via I/O cables, and the iTRACS software. In basic terms, the system monitors the patch cord connection between two patch panels or between a patch panel and network switch for each cable drop in the network by real-time monitoring of the continuity of the ninth conductor pin to the sensor pads.
 

This joint intelligent structured cabling solution enables enterprise customers to minimize network downtime, reduce staff workload, and reduce MAC time by automating the management of the physical layer. The system will also provide security as well as complete up-to-date documentation for troubleshooting and disaster recovery preparedness.
 

History

Several documentation methods are currently being used today to manage the cabling infrastructure. These methods continue to evolve as the size and complexity of networks continue to increase.
 

• Handwritten Documentation
   

  Early documentation methods depended on handwritten ledgers maintained by network administrators. This method is still used today for smaller companies with few changes. The accuracy of this method relies on the administrator documenting changes and additions in a clear, consistent, and timely manner.
   

• Spreadsheet
   

  The use of a company spreadsheet for medium to large networks has been adapted as a more effective means of administration and documentation. These spreadsheets provide greater flexibility and reporting capabilities over handwritten documentation. The accuracy of this method remains with the administrator documenting changes in a timely manner.
   

• Cable Management Software
   

  Cable management software was developed as an upgrade from the company spreadsheet. This software package is specifically designed to organize and simplify the management of an organization’s network infrastructure. Although used successfully within many large organizations, cable management software continues to have the drawback of manual updates, possibilities of erroneous entries, and delayed reporting. Also, there is no reliable way of knowing that the network changes have been correctly implemented without an audit of the cabling system.
   

• Next Generation Cable Management Software
   

  Moving beyond just a software solution, the next generation cable management system has been combined with connecting hardware to provide network administrators with accurate and automated solutions to document and manage the complete physical layer in real-time from their desktop and any offsite location. This next generation solution removes the manual updating of data for MAC's and delivers the administrator with accurate, up-to-date connectivity status and automatic documentation of the network. These next generation features are now available with AMP NETCONNECT’s AMPTRAC infrastructure management solution.