TE Enterprise Networks, part of the $14bn TE Connectivity group, has a range of intelligent physical-layer management solutions for communication networks based on new infrastructure configuration management (ICM) software.

There are two hardware options: the AMPTRAC ninth-wire technology products and the new Quareo connection point identification (CPID) technology products.

The said that combined these products ease integration into existing network and data-center infrastructure management systems, and support for IT service management and infrastructure library (ITIL) systems.

“The physical layer - often consisting of many thousands of individual cables and connections - has been one element of the network that has lagged behind in terms of process automation and network visibility”, says Hans-Jürgen Niethammer, Director of Sales Operations & Technical Services, TE Enterprise Networks, EMEA/India/AUS/NZ: “Now, however, TE’s managed connectivity solution delivers full knowledge and visibility of the physical layer. The ICM software integrates seamlessly with users’ existing network management software to give full control and visibility of the complete network – allowing users to truly know their networks.”

Users are promised higher availability through increased automation, improved diagnostics and reduced downtime. 

ITIL (IT Infrastructure Library) process efficiency is  enhanced, the company said through 100% accurate real-time physical location information that can support security and compliance.
Integration of the physical layer and the virtual world though integration with existing NMS (Network Management System) and DCIM (Data Centre Infrastructure Management) software will enhance visibility and control of the whole network.

The company said ICM software sits at the heart of the connectivity system and has the ability to seamlessly communicate with third-party applications. It collects real-time time data from the hardware connectivity and, though its open applications interface, passes that information into the existing network management software.

TE’s AMPTRAC product technology utilizes a ‘ninth wire’ to communicate connection data from the patching field via a hardware analyzer to the ICM software database. A large range of connectivity hardware is available and includes ‘AMPTRAC ready’ options to enable an easy upgrade path to full AMPTRAC functionality as the demands on a network increase.

The Quareo product technology utilizes a chipset that is embedded into the connectors and contains information relating to the connectors and associated cable. A unique identification code applied to these network connection points enables the automatic discovery and mapping of all physical-layer connection points, making important information available to upstream network management systems. With this connection point ID system, real-time physical-layer status is available through the open applications interface of the ICM software for use by a wide range of network management tools, delivering long-term value.

Niethammer said: “TE’s managed connectivity solution enables higher network availability, while lowering network costs, by integrating full visibility of the physical layer into existing network management applications - all the way from the data centre to the desktop