R&M simplifies monitoring of fibre optic networks

Technologies and Products

Reichle & De-Massari (R&M) has announced it has developed Traffic Access Points (TAP) modules for the high-density distribution platform Netscale 120. They facilitate the monitoring of fibre optic networks in datacentres. The new monitoring instrument can be completely integrated into the structured MPO and LC Duplex cabling. The TAP modules are situated like distribution trays directly in the Netscale housing. They do not need their own space in the rack. Trays and ports can be integrated, exchanged as well as patched on the front and back in a flash during operation.

Netscale 120 TAP modules work with the technology of passive splitters. They monitor the incoming and outgoing data streams in parallel in real-time without influencing network performance. The splitters are fixed in the TAP trays.

Dr. Thomas Wellinger, market manager datacentre, R&M commented, “Netscale 120 TAP modules are an infrastructure insurance policy. Network managers can use them to prove, both within the company and to customers, that they adhere to the agreed service quality and that company-critical applications can run smoothly. What’s more, datacentres use the racks to full capacity. When fully assembled, Netscale 120 TAP modules can monitor up to 240 LC ports on three height units – a record.” The R&M range also includes a variant for the Cisco BiDi operation.

R&M recommends installing TAP modules proactively and initially using them as a standard module for structured cabling. Wellinger says, “Assembling in a new property is less expensive than installing at a later date which in some cases could result in critical failures. If necessary, the monitoring equipment can be inserted into the tapped ports during operation.”

A TAP (Traffic Access Point) consists of a passive fibre optic splitter. In a fully bi-directional network, it takes an identical copy of the optical signals from the fibre without causing additional latency or packet loss. One of the two data streams flows on with the data traffic; the other is used for tapping. Using the tapped data traffic, measuring equipment can illustrate data on failure, performance and use in real-time.

R&M says that its TAP solutions unite the Traffic Access Point and the tapping of the physical layer in a tray. Conventional solutions are usually integrated into a network as separate components. R&M’s integrated approach makes it possible to add and remove ports for tapping data traffic without having to interrupt operation. TAPs also support data protection and network security. The passive splitter technology prevents any hacking attacks from outside. Only authorised people get anywhere near the TAP modules providing access controls correspond to the standards. The spatial streams can be monitored in compliance with data protection regulations.

For more information, visit www.rdm.com