Thursday, November 11, 2010

Cisco introduces 5940 Embedded Services Router for mobile network


Cisco has introduced the 5940 Embedded Services Router (ESR), a ruggedised router optimised for mobile and embedded networks that require IP routing and services.

The new router extends organisational resources with a high degree of security to employees in the field within the public safety, transportation, construction, mining and defense markets.

The company said that the new router establishes a scalable mobile network in first-responder vehicles, armoured vehicles, and passenger and freight rail trains.

The 5940 ESR is designed for use in harsh environments offering reliable operation in extreme temperatures and under shock and vibration conditions typical for mobile applications in rugged terrain.

In addition, 5940 ESR compact form factor is complemented by the company's IOS Software and Mobile Ready Net capabilities, that provide secure data, voice and video communications to stationary and mobile network nodes across wired and wireless links.

Cisco research & advanced development senior vice president Brad Boston said the 5940 router is a key element of the offering architecture that defines the company's vision for the mobile network of the future, a network that continuously adapts, enabling people to connect and communicate how, when and where they need to.

"Without relying on predefined fixed infrastructure, the 5940 can deliver versatile, military-qualified mobile networking designed specifically for the most demanding conditions," Boston said.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Siemens Industry Automation Division launches new network management software


The Siemens Industry Automation Division has developed new network management software, which is designed to monitor and visualise the topology, availability and performance of industrial Ethernet networks.

The company said that the Sinema Server (Simatic Network Manager) software automatically recognises changes in the network and helps to identify and clear malfunctions.

The new offering documents the utilisation and availability of a network over any chosen period.

At regular specified intervals, the software recognises any change to the network, including all components within the network from whatever manufacturer (autodiscovery) and displays the current topology and any changes.

An extended, detailed diagnosis is available for Scalance network components.

The firm said several users can access the Sinema Server data simultaneously from any location using a Web browser and the display can be personalised for each user.

The content can be displayed on monitors in the production facility using HMI (Human Machine Interface) or Scada (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems.

The software supports protocols such as OPC, SNMP, LLDP, DCP and "Ping".