R&M the Swiss Structured cabling Specialist introduces Patch Guard, a new technology development designed to enhance security systems for data networks at Gitex KSA

Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 23rd April 06

Reichle & De-Massari (R&M, www.rdm.com), the Swiss structured cabling specialist, expands the security system for data networks with a lock for RJ45 patch cords. The name of this new product is Patch Guard and will be launched in the MEA region at Gitex KSA.

The plug-out protection consists of a plastic clamp with a locking mechanism that can be mounted tool-free at any time. Users can attach and lock it in a few steps onto the cable end. The clamp blocks the unlatching lever of the RJ45 connector. As a result, only authorized people who have the compatible key can open the plug-out protection. This solution closes the last security gap in passive cabling.

"Gitex KSA represents an important platform for us to talk to a wide range of businesses - across industries including governments, telcos, banking, hotels and other enterprise businesses - in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the rest of the region, about their diverse security requirements for their data networks and how we can meet those needs," said Laurent Amestoy, Regional General Manager, R&M Middle East & Africa.

R&M structured cabling solutions are all about quality, security, continuity, innovation & flexibility. R&M structured cabling solutions cater to the growing demand by organizations and enterprise businesses for secure, uninterrupted access to information across their networks. R&M client's list includes: Department of Health & Medical Services, Emirates Bank, Arab Bank, American University of Dubai, UAE University, Telecom Egypt and others.

Patch Guard is the first lockable plug-out protection for RJ45 patch cords on the market. It is compatible with the standard RJ45 patch cords from R&M. In addition, the Patch Guard can be colour coded with coloured clips from the R&M security system in order to avoid erroneous patching.

The plug-out protection with the security lock is appropriate for all data and communications networks with RJ45 patch cords particularly in office, home and industrial cabling.  For corporate networks it can be used together with its peripheral devices from the server room via active network components and distributors to the individual PC workstation.

Wireless LAN access points are more and more frequently installed at publicly accessible points and on networks - a typical application for the Patch Guard. Particular security measures are necessary because entire departments or numerous customers with laptops can be disconnected from the data traffic if an access point is accidentally or wilfully plugged out. This also applies to modern security systems - for example for monitoring cameras with RJ45 data network connections - the Patch Guard contributes to avert manipulations on the connections.

When using power over Ethernet, sudden and accidental plug-outs of the connectors must implicitly be avoided in the running operation to avoid arcs and contact burning signs. In this case, the Patch Guard also provides valuable services.

Industrial concerns are introducing Ethernet with RJ45 network connections to obtain production information in real time. Serious consequences can occur, if the data flow is interrupted. Such consequences can include stopping of machines and financial damages. Patch Guard keeps the RJ45 ports securely locked in manufacturing systems and thus gains importance in quality management, cost control, productivity and operational reliability.

The new product from R&M expands the third step of the modular R&M security system. It features an intelligent plug-out protection, locking mechanism and authorization solution. RJ45 connections can now be locked at the jack as well as on the cable. Additional levels of the R&M security system allow colour and mechanical coding of the network connections and help to avoid erroneous patching.

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About Reichle & De-Massari
As an independent Swiss family business, Reichle & De-Massari AG (R&M), Wetzikon (ZH), have now chalked up more than 40 years' experience in the information and communication technology market. The firm concentrates on the development and manufacture of future-oriented passive structured cabling solutions for communications networks (Layer 1). Outstanding products in the copper and fiber optics domain have won R&M a reputation as leaders in quality who always provide added value. R&M solutions set standards for modularity as well as convenience of installation and maintenance.

R&M have won market leadership in Switzerland, and are present in 16 further countries with their own subsidiaries and agencies so called MOs (marketing organisations). In many other countries around the world, customers are looked after by well qualified marketing partners.

© Press Release 2006