03 July 2008
The Global 2U 48 port panel for LANs and data centers provides high capacity and security in the rack - tool-free installation

Dubai, UAE - The Swiss cabling specialist R&M (www.rdm.com) has developed a new generation of patch panels for distributors in enterprise networks and data centers: the Global 2U 48-port panel. The market launch took place in June, coinciding with the celebrations marking the 25th anniversary of the German subsidiary in Cologne. CEO Martin Reichle gave the starting signal personally, emphasizing that: "the best protection against errors and faults, and thus network failures, is a cabling solution that leaves no room for ambiguity and is clear and easy to handle. With the new, compact Global patch panel, R&M has made an innovative contribution to greater security and availability for LANs and data centers.

With space for up to 48 ports split over two height units, the new patch panel provides standard connection density with greater security in 19-inch racks. Security has both a technical and a human aspect. Technical security in distributors for LANs and data centers is governed by the space available. In order to guarantee the reliability of the connections and to keep electromagnetic fields within limits, the port density cannot be increased indefinitely. This also has a bearing on the human aspect: the best way to prevent mistakes is to avoid ambiguity and provide clarity. These aspects had a decisive influence on the development of the Global 2U 48-port panel.

The patch panel expands the R&Mfreenet cabling system. Two height units can accommodate 16 connection module holders each with three RJ45 modules. Up to 48 connections - shielded or unshielded - have space in the panel. This corresponds to the standard industry port density of 24 per height unit.

Integrated security system and R&M has still succeeded in integrating its complete security system. The Smartholes built into the frame allow each security level to be implemented with just a few steps - from distinct color coding with clips through mechanical coding with adapters, up to intelligent plug-in and plug-out protection with locking mechanism and authorization. R&M's security system supports error-free patching and thus maximum availability of the network. Moreover, labeling is integrated from the word go.

A current white paper published by R&M with the title "Influence of Cabling Systems on the Availability of Data Centers" describes how data centers can be planned, wired and operated securely and cost-effectively. It can be downloaded by visiting www.rdm.com .

Tool-free installation

Even the installation of the Global 2U 48-port panel itself requires no tools. Tried and tested construction techniques make it possible to assemble and secure the components in just a few operations. A new feature is the integrated strain relief on the connection module holder. This makes additional cable tie shelves unnecessary. The holder is designed for pre-assembly and is constructed in such a way that the connection modules can be conveniently prepared in advance. They are simply clicked into place on site. The connection modules and cable can be secured directly using cable ties. Automatic grounding ensures that reliable shielding is in place.

An optional patch cord guide can be mounted to the side of the panel. This effectively eliminates the need for the horizontal 19-inch cable management panels that would otherwise occupy valuable space in the cabinet. Distinct configuration.

Three connections on a connection module holder are ideal for companies that regularly equip their work places with three connections, e.g. two for data and one for the phone. The configuration of the patch panel is thus unequivocal: each connection module holder incorporates the connections for exactly one workstation, and always in the same sequence. This configuration works equally well in the data center where often servers have three ports. In the same way, each connection module holder would then correspond to one server.

"In view of the fact that servers are continually getting smaller and more powerful, security in a confined space is the challenge that planners and operators of data centers have to come to terms with.  This group of users will be especially grateful for the compact Global 2U solution that offers the complete security program", stated Martin Reichle. It is just not possible to keep making patch panels, connectors and cables smaller in the same way as servers and integrated circuits. Excessive density would have a negative impact on data transmission and network security. Thus R&M has developed a solution with the Global 2U 48-port panel that takes all requirements into account. Principles: quality, high-end, modular, forward-looking
R&M is convinced that only a qualitatively high-end and flexible cabling system can meet today's challenges in data centers. In the view of R&M, it must be able to cope easily with constant changes and capacity upgrades whilst ensuring maximum availability.

R&Mfreenet complete solution

R&Mfreenet can be incorporated in data centers as the complete solution for structured cabling. It fulfils the requirements of the main distribution area up to and including the storage area. The generic cabling system is based on a modular design. Among other things, modularity means that horizontal cabling and patch panels can be flexibly and successively adapted to requirements. All components are standardized and universally compatible with one another. For the backbone (up to 300 meters long) and for storage areas, R&Mfreenet offers VISION fiber optic components with OM3 cabling. STAR Real 10 components with flexible Class EA. copper cabling are appropriate for horizontal cabling of switch and server racks up to 100 meters long. These components already met the transmission requirements for 10 Gigabit Ethernet in accordance with today's standards - particularly based on 360° shielding against alien crosstalk (Alien NEXT) - on their market introduction in 2000.
 
Proven connector systems and manageable packing densities in the patch panel support the user in his usual mode of operation - crucial factors in minimizing network downtimes. The Global 3U patch panel is equipped for up to 60 ports or 15 four-channel modules over 3 height units and supports copper as well as fiber optic connections, and can also be enhanced with R&M's security system.

-Ends-

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.

For more information, please contact:
Mohamed Tawil
PR Consultant
Active PR, Dubai, UAE
Tel : +9714-3900825
Fax : + 9714-3904656
Email : mohd@activepr.biz

© Press Release 2008