A large School District in the Northeastern United States was relying on a legacy TDM-based phone system. The School District supports over 200,000 students with more than 18,000 staff members across more than 300 primary, elementary, and high schools. The aging communication system was being used in every location and was becoming increasingly costly and difficult to manage. The School District decided it was time to improve its capabilities while lowering operational costs, turning to ConvergeOne to help them modernize to IP phones.
Many challenges were uncovered during an assessment of the customer’s environment. The legacy phone system was supported with a CAT3 infrastructure and the customer was extremely concerned with the potential for high costs, long deployment times, and the environmental impact of ripping and replacing the existing infrastructure to support the new IP platform. In addition, many schools were operating in older buildings. This would further complicate the upgrade process as the School District would need to obtain permits to make any changes to these buildings. Assuming permits were granted, strict modification guidelines for construction work would result in significantly higher labor costs and extended timelines.
The customer was also challenged with long reach requirements to provide Power over Ethernet (PoE) connections to the new IP phones exactly where they were needed. The School District did not have the required space or budget to install IDF closets to extend connectivity to all areas of the buildings. Reducing deployment time was also extremely important to the customer, as they wanted to ensure minimal disruption to classroom learning and extra-curricular activities.
Modern LAN Innovation
Due to the restrictive nature of the upgrade, ConvergeOne was confident in recommending the NVT Phybridge PoLRE PoE Switch to the customer. The PoLRE switch transforms existing CAT3 cabling infrastructures into robust and secure power-packed IP platforms; capable of supporting IP phones up to 1,200ft (365m) away – that’s 4Xs the reach of standard PoE switches. The customer immediately recognized the value of the solution. However, given the complexity, risk, costs, and disruption associated with ripping and replacing the existing infrastructure, the School District was skeptical that PoLRE would work in their environment. ConvergeOne assisted the customer in organizing a no-obligation proof of concept to test the solution.
The customer tested the PoLRE switch in several of their buildings with great success; the customer was astonished at the simplicity of installation and the robustness of the solution. Thanks to the ConvergeOne team, the School District found the modernization path that best fit their needs; leveraging NVT Phybridge networking solutions to achieve incredible results.
Create a secure and robust local area network – ConvergeOne helped the customer establish a secure and robust PoE backbone for their new communication platform using their existing and reliable voice infrastructure. The PoLRE switch allowed the customer to maintain a separate and secure point-to-point IP network for voice, ensuring zero disruption to the core network and enhancing cybersecurity.
Use new long-reach PoE innovations to maximize ROI – by leveraging the existing CAT3 voice infrastructure, the PoLRE switch allowed the customer to reduce infrastructure costs by over $3 million and accelerate the deployment time by over 80%.
Upgrade to IP using an environmentally responsible framework – The existing and reliable wiring across all locations was reused and transformed to support the new IP communication system; significantly reducing the project’s e-waste. The solution will prevent approximately 8.4 million feet of cable from entering a landfill, equivalent to 85,000 pounds or 42 US tons. The long reach capabilities will also eliminate the need to install new intermediate wiring closets, reduce resource requirements and reduce ongoing energy consumption.
ConvergeOne used Modern LAN design principles to achieve the customer’s IP objectives; helping the School District establish a secure and robust IP backbone for their enhanced communication solution. The School District now plans to quickly and easily deploy over 10,000 new IP phones across all locations thanks to the PoLRE’s repeatable, predictable and scalable deployment methodology.
A Better Return on Investment
ConvergeOne took a proactive approach to find new and better ways to support their customer’s IP modernization objectives in a financially and socially responsible manner; creating better outcomes for them and their customer. The School District was able to satisfy all the necessary infrastructure requirements without compromise, thanks to the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the solution. By applying Modern LAN principles and leveraging innovative technology, ConvergeOne helped the customer:
- Reduce infrastructure costs by over $3 million and reallocate the savings to more IP applications; improving the customer’s ROI
- Eliminate financial and technical risk while avoiding disruption to staff and students
- Reduce the project’s impact on the environment; avoiding over 42 tons of e-waste
- Accelerate the deployment by over 80%
- Build a secure and robust PoE platform for the enhanced IP communications solution
- Find a no-compromise solution that satisfied all the customer’s requirements
Change the Conversation; Improve the Outcome
ConvergeOne and NVT Phybridge have partnered to help more customers replicate the success of this project. NVT Phybridge is committed to helping organizations accelerate digital transformation projects, reduce infrastructure costs, and eliminate risk and complexity; resulting in a better ROI for ConvergeOne customers. Ask your ConvergeOne representative about the program and the many benefits available to support your successful digital transformation project.
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If you have an upcoming IP or IoT modernization project, we would love to help. Book a one-on-one meeting with one of our Digital Transformation Consultants to review your environment and discuss the best options for your organization.
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Juniper Communities Deploys Polycom IP Using NVT Phybridge PoE Switches
Juniper Communities is an assisted living network dedicated to fostering active bodies, engaged minds, and fulfilled spirits for its residents. However, communication was hard for staff as the organization relied on an outdated and unreliable PBX phone system. To continue providing industry-leading services, the organization decided to upgrade to a new Polycom IP communication solution.
Environmental Stewardship
Juniper Communities understands the importance of preserving our natural environment. Their Green Canopy program promotes healthier living for residents, staff, and the community through various environmentally-conscious events and initiatives. Through the Green Canopy program, the organization has helped plant trees in the local community, organized fundraising events to restore fresh waterways in Florida’s coastal region, and cared for gardens of flowers and vegetables every spring. Additionally, the Chatham location was one of the first retirement communities to embrace the green building movement, using LEED standards to design the building.
As Juniper Communities planned their modernization to IP, network infrastructure became a key challenge. Traditional network design philosophy would involve ripping and replacing the existing voice infrastructure with new Ethernet. Along with the extremely adverse environmental impacts, the organization was concerned with the long deployment times and the disruption to their residents that this would cause. Juniper Communities required an innovative solution to overcome their challenges.
Change the Conversation; Improve the Outcome
Given the customer’s needs, Telecom Express recommended the NVT Phybridge PoLRE PoE switch. The PoLRE switch allows organizations to leverage their existing cabling infrastructure, eliminating the disruptive, time-consuming, and costly rip-and-replace requirement. Juniper Communities was impressed and decided to test the solution in their environment. After a few simple setup steps, the PoLRE switch transformed their existing and proven voice network into a secure and robust PoE backbone for their new Polycom IP phones. The PoLRE switch extends PoE up to 1,200ft (365m) – 4 times farther than standard PoE switches – which ensured the customer could easily connect the new IP phones exactly where they were needed. Juniper Communities was able to responsibly modernize to IP, as they were able to:
“Our existing telecom system was aging, unreliable, and becoming a huge liability,” said Don Breneman, Vice President of Risk Management and Business Operations at Juniper Communities. “As we planned the upgrade to IP, saving money while providing a high level of reliability and system management was important to our team. Luckily for us, Mark Janifer from Telecom Express introduced me to the perfect innovation from NVT Phybridge. I would highly recommend the PoLRE solution to any organization upgrading their communication system to IP.”
A Better Return on Investment
Juniper Communities took a proactive approach to find new and better ways to support their IP modernization objectives in a financially and socially responsible manner. The organization was able to satisfy all the necessary infrastructure requirements without compromise, thanks to the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the solution. Juniper Communities used NVT Phybridge PoE switches to:
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If you have an upcoming IP or IoT modernization project, we would love to help. Book a one-on-one meeting with one of our Digital Transformation Consultants to review your environment and discuss the best options for your organization.
BOOK A MEETINGTelecom Express Helps Juniper Communities Modernize to IP Voice Using NVT Phybridge PoE
Juniper Communities is an assisted living network dedicated to fostering active bodies, engaged minds, and fulfilled spirits for its residents. However, communication was hard work for staff as the organization was relying on an outdated and unreliable PBX phone system. To continue providing industry-leading services, the organization decided it was time to upgrade to a new IP communication solution.
Environmental Stewardship
Juniper Communities understands the importance of preserving our natural environment. Their Green Canopy program promotes healthier living for residents, staff, and the community through various environmentally-conscious events and initiatives. Through the Green Canopy program, the organization has helped plant trees in the local community, organized fundraising events to restore fresh waterways in Florida’s coastal region, and cared for gardens of flowers and vegetables every spring. Additionally, the Chatham location was one of the first retirement communities to embrace the green building movement; using LEED standards to design the building.
As Juniper Communities planned their modernization to IP, network infrastructure became a key challenge. Traditional network design philosophy would involve ripping and replacing the existing voice infrastructure with new Ethernet. Along with the extremely negative environmental impacts, the organization was concerned with the long deployment times and the disruption to their residents that this would cause. Juniper Communities required an innovative solution to overcome their challenges.
Change the Conversation; Improve the Outcome
Given the customer’s needs, Telecom Express was confident in recommending Modern LAN design – and introduced the customer to the NVT Phybridge PoLRE PoE switch. The PoLRE switch allows organizations to leverage their existing infrastructure, eliminating the disruptive, time-consuming, and costly rip-and-replace requirement. Juniper Communities was impressed and decided to test the solution in their environment. After a few simple setup steps, the PoLRE switch transformed their existing and proven voice network into a secure and robust PoE backbone for their new Polycom IP phones. The PoLRE switch extends PoE up to 1,200ft (365m) – 4 times farther than standard PoE switches – which ensured the customer could easily connect the new IP phones exactly where they were needed. Juniper Communities was able to responsibly modernize to IP, as they were able to:
“Our existing telecom system was aging, unreliable and becoming a huge liability”, said Don Breneman, Vice President of Risk Management and Business Operations at Juniper Communities. “As we planned the upgrade to IP, saving money while providing a high level of reliability and system management was important to our team. Luckily for us, Mark Janifer from Telecom Express introduced me to the perfect innovation from NVT Phybridge. I would highly recommend the PoLRE solution to any organization upgrading their communication system to IP.”
A Better Outcome for Juniper Communities and Telecom Express
Juniper Communities took a proactive approach to find new and better ways to support their IP modernization objectives in a financially and socially responsible manner. The organization was able to satisfy all the necessary infrastructure requirements without compromise, thanks to the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the solution. By applying Modern LAN principles and leveraging innovative switch technology, Juniper Communities was able to:
Additionally, Telecom Express used NVT Phybridge PoE innovations to:
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If you have an upcoming IP or IoT modernization project, we would love to help. Book a one-on-one meeting with one of our Digital Transformation Consultants to review your environment and discuss the best options for your organization.
BOOK A MEETINGJuniper Communities Prevents Over 650 Pounds of E-Waste During IP Voice Modernization
Assisted Living Center Deploys Poly IP Phones Without High Costs, Complexity, or Disruption
Juniper Communities is an assisted living network dedicated to fostering active bodies, engaged minds, and fulfilled spirits for its residents. However, communication was hard work for staff as the organization was relying on an outdated and unreliable PBX phone system. To continue providing industry-leading services, the organization decided it was time to modernize to a new IP communication solution.
Environmental Stewardship
Juniper Communities understands the importance of preserving our natural environment. Their Green Canopy program promotes healthier living for residents, staff, and the community through various environmentally conscious events and initiatives. Through the Green Canopy program, the organization has helped plant trees in the local community, organized fundraising events to restore fresh waterways in Florida’s coastal region, and cared for gardens of flowers and vegetables every spring. Additionally, the Chatham location was one of the first retirement communities to embrace the green building movement, using LEED standards to design the facility.
As Juniper Communities planned their modernization to IP, network infrastructure became a key challenge. Traditional network design philosophy would involve ripping and replacing the existing voice infrastructure with new Ethernet. Along with the extremely negative environmental impacts, the organization was concerned with the long deployment times and the disruption to their residents that this would cause. Juniper Communities required an innovative solution to overcome their challenges.
Change the Conversation; Improve the Outcome
Given the customer’s needs, the reseller partner was confident in recommending Modern LAN design – and introduced the customer to the NVT Phybridge PoLRE switch. The PoLRE switch enables Modern LAN principles and allows organizations to leverage their existing infrastructure, eliminating the disruptive, time-consuming, and costly rip-and-replace requirement. Juniper Communities was impressed and decided to test the solution in their environment. After a few simple setup steps, the PoLRE switch transformed their existing and proven voice network into a secure and robust Power over Ethernet (PoE) backbone for the new Poly IP phones. The PoLRE switch extends PoE up to 1,200ft (365m) – 4 times farther than standard PoE switches – ensuring the customer could easily connect the new IP phones exactly where they were needed. Juniper Communities was able to responsibly modernize to IP, as they were able to:
“Our existing telecom system was aging, unreliable and becoming a huge liability”, said Don Breneman, Vice President of Risk Management and Business Operations at Juniper Communities. “As we planned the upgrade to IP, saving money while providing a high level of reliability and system management was important to our team. Luckily for us, we discovered the perfect innovation from NVT Phybridge. I would highly recommend the PoLRE solution to any organization upgrading their communication system to IP.”
A Better Return on Investment
Juniper Communities took a proactive approach to find new and better ways to support their IP modernization objectives in a financially and socially responsible manner. The organization was able to satisfy all the necessary infrastructure requirements without compromise, thanks to the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the solution. By applying Modern LAN principles and leveraging innovative technology, Juniper Communities was able to:
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If you have an upcoming IP or IoT modernization project, we would love to help. Book a one-on-one meeting with one of our Digital Transformation Consultants to review your environment and discuss the best options for your organization.
BOOK A MEETINGThe Modern LAN: Why Segregating the Network Just Makes Sense
Why Segregating the Network Just Makes Sense
GUEST BLOG: Roopashree Honnachari, Industry Director for Business Communication Services & Cloud Computing at Frost & Sullivan
In our ongoing research here are Frost & Sullivan, we tend to think about Ethernet and Internet Protocol (IP) in terms of watershed moments: The two standards came together to replace the disparate networks businesses once relied on to enable communications and data transfer. Before Ethernet and IP, the communications network (phones connected to a central call control unit or PBX), the security network (cameras and access control connected to a dedicated system) and the data network were delivered over their own dedicated infrastructure and cabling. Ethernet and IP offered the promise of a single network on which all systems can interoperate, while also delivering the economies of scale that come with a shared infrastructure.
Unfortunately, several unintended consequences have taken some of the shine off the idea of an integrated network. Rather than serving as a beacon of interoperability, today’s business networks can quickly add to the workload and stress of network administrators. Each of the once-discrete networks comes with its own unique set of requirements, which are often at odds with one another. In dealing with conflicts, many admins find themselves tweaking and readjusting network settings or creating a complex set of virtual LAN (vLAN) policies. As the name suggests, the vLAN approach divides the physical network into a series of logical ones; it’s an administrator-intensive effort, devices often land in the wrong place, slowing performance, as well as increasing costs and network complexity.
In addition, ongoing cyber threats to the entire network remain, meaning that rogue apps, malware or denial of service attacks have the potential to take down not only PCs and business applications but also critical security and communications devices. Likewise, with more and more IoT endpoints connected to the network, new attack vectors are available to hackers to disrupt all of a business’ connected devices.
As Frost & Sullivan analysts across several research practices came together to develop a new set of best practices for local area networks, we factored both ongoing security threats as well as network simplification into what we call the “Modern LAN principles.” To address both the opportunity and challenges of network convergence, we included this recommendation:
When possible, construct physically separate but functionally integrated IP network paths for different and dedicated applications, ensuring mission-critical platforms are not impacted by disruptions or intrusions of the primary business network. By doing so, organizations have the option to create separate networks or connect them on site or in the cloud with a single cable.
So, what does a “physically separate but functionally integrated” network look like? In the diagram below, you will notice that the IP camera and IPTV in the upper right corner are physically separated from the PC network in the center and the IoT sensors on the left. This has two advantages. First, management of the throughput, power and configuration needs of the camera can be managed separately from the PC network, largely eliminating the need for vLAN configurations. Second, in the event of a cyber attack on the IoT or PC network, the security network is protected by its own firewall. And if a rapid response is needed, it can be unplugged from the rest of the network and operated independently. The PC and IoT networks can also operate in an independent but integrated fashion as needed.
“Physically separate but functionally integrated” is just one of several design best practices incorporated in the Modern LAN. To learn more, read the whitepaper “The Modern LAN: Rethinking Network Design for the Modern Age”, available at www.themodernlan.org
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BOOK A MEETINGEdward Colton – Regional Manager at Cornerstone Detention
Congratulations to Edward Colton of Cornerstone Detention for winning the IoT Pioneer Award!
Edward has helped several correctional institutions and government agencies leverage Modern LAN principles and NVT Phybridge PoE innovations to ensure a simple, secure, and cost-effective modernization to IP and the Internet of Things. Thanks to Edward’s trailblazing leadership, he continues to help organizations reduce infrastructure costs, deployment times, risk, complexity, disruption, and cybersecurity concerns.
Change the Conversation and Improve the Outcome for You and Your Customers
Edward Colton took a proactive approach to find new and better ways to support his customer’s IP modernization objectives in a financially and socially responsible manner. Our partners are using Frost & Sullivan’s Modern LAN principles to increase & accelerate revenue recognition, collapse sales & deployment cycles, and eliminate infrastructure barriers for their customers as they modernize to IP.
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If you have an upcoming IP or IoT modernization project, we would love to help. Book a one-on-one meeting with one of our Digital Transformation Consultants to review your environment and discuss the best options for your organization.
BOOK A MEETINGConvergeOne Modernizes School District Using NVT Phybridge PoE
A large School District in the Northeastern United States was relying on a legacy TDM-based phone system. The School District supports over 200,000 students with more than 18,000 staff members across more than 300 primary, elementary, and high schools. The aging communication system was being used in every location and was becoming increasingly costly and difficult to manage. The School District decided it was time to improve its capabilities while lowering operational costs, turning to ConvergeOne to help them modernize to IP phones.
Many challenges were uncovered during an assessment of the customer’s environment. The legacy phone system was supported with a CAT3 infrastructure and the customer was extremely concerned with the potential for high costs, long deployment times, and the environmental impact of ripping and replacing the existing infrastructure to support the new IP platform. In addition, many schools were operating in older buildings. This would further complicate the upgrade process as the School District would need to obtain permits to make any changes to these buildings. Assuming permits were granted, strict modification guidelines for construction work would result in significantly higher labor costs and extended timelines.
The customer was also challenged with long reach requirements to provide Power over Ethernet (PoE) connections to the new IP phones exactly where they were needed. The School District did not have the required space or budget to install IDF closets to extend connectivity to all areas of the buildings. Reducing deployment time was also extremely important to the customer, as they wanted to ensure minimal disruption to classroom learning and extra-curricular activities.
Modern LAN Innovation
Due to the restrictive nature of the upgrade, ConvergeOne was confident in recommending the NVT Phybridge PoLRE PoE Switch to the customer. The PoLRE switch transforms existing CAT3 cabling infrastructures into robust and secure power-packed IP platforms; capable of supporting IP phones up to 1,200ft (365m) away – that’s 4Xs the reach of standard PoE switches. The customer immediately recognized the value of the solution. However, given the complexity, risk, costs, and disruption associated with ripping and replacing the existing infrastructure, the School District was skeptical that PoLRE would work in their environment. ConvergeOne assisted the customer in organizing a no-obligation proof of concept to test the solution.
The customer tested the PoLRE switch in several of their buildings with great success; the customer was astonished at the simplicity of installation and the robustness of the solution. Thanks to the ConvergeOne team, the School District found the modernization path that best fit their needs; leveraging NVT Phybridge networking solutions to achieve incredible results.
Create a secure and robust local area network – ConvergeOne helped the customer establish a secure and robust PoE backbone for their new communication platform using their existing and reliable voice infrastructure. The PoLRE switch allowed the customer to maintain a separate and secure point-to-point IP network for voice, ensuring zero disruption to the core network and enhancing cybersecurity.
Use new long-reach PoE innovations to maximize ROI – by leveraging the existing CAT3 voice infrastructure, the PoLRE switch allowed the customer to reduce infrastructure costs by over $3 million and accelerate the deployment time by over 80%.
Upgrade to IP using an environmentally responsible framework – The existing and reliable wiring across all locations was reused and transformed to support the new IP communication system; significantly reducing the project’s e-waste. The solution will prevent approximately 8.4 million feet of cable from entering a landfill, equivalent to 85,000 pounds or 42 US tons. The long reach capabilities will also eliminate the need to install new intermediate wiring closets, reduce resource requirements and reduce ongoing energy consumption.
ConvergeOne used Modern LAN design principles to achieve the customer’s IP objectives; helping the School District establish a secure and robust IP backbone for their enhanced communication solution. The School District now plans to quickly and easily deploy over 10,000 new IP phones across all locations thanks to the PoLRE’s repeatable, predictable and scalable deployment methodology.
A Better Return on Investment
ConvergeOne took a proactive approach to find new and better ways to support their customer’s IP modernization objectives in a financially and socially responsible manner; creating better outcomes for them and their customer. The School District was able to satisfy all the necessary infrastructure requirements without compromise, thanks to the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the solution. By applying Modern LAN principles and leveraging innovative technology, ConvergeOne helped the customer:
Change the Conversation; Improve the Outcome
ConvergeOne and NVT Phybridge have partnered to help more customers replicate the success of this project. NVT Phybridge is committed to helping organizations accelerate digital transformation projects, reduce infrastructure costs, and eliminate risk and complexity; resulting in a better ROI for ConvergeOne customers. Ask your ConvergeOne representative about the program and the many benefits available to support your successful digital transformation project.
Book a Meeting
If you have an upcoming IP or IoT modernization project, we would love to help. Book a one-on-one meeting with one of our Digital Transformation Consultants to review your environment and discuss the best options for your organization.
BOOK A MEETINGColombian Army Saves Over $50,000 Using the NVT Phybridge CLEER Switch Innovation
NVT Phybridge Case Study: Colombian Army
Colombian Army Deploys IP Surveillance System Throughout Its New Aviation Logistics Center
In early 2017, the Colombian Army finished construction on its state-of-the-art Army Aviation Logistics Center (Spanish acronym, CLAVE). Designed and built by the U.S Army Corps of Engineers, CLAVE is an over 9,000 square meter facility designed to provide support for the transportation, storage, distribution, and security of the Colombian Army’s aeronautical equipment. To comply with international standards for aeronautical logistical activities, the Colombian Government needed to implement a high-level security system. The facility required an IP surveillance system of over 100 cameras to monitor the entire facility and its surroundings.
Challenge
The Colombian Army had previously installed a Coax-based infrastructure to support an IP security system. However, the agency struggled to extend Power over Ethernet (PoE) to support the new IP cameras in all areas of the building. The 328ft (100m) reach limitation of standard PoE switches meant that they would need to install multiple IDF closets, which would be extremely costly and increase network complexity. CLAVE was unsatisfied with the traditional approach to network design, turning to project partners to help find an innovative solution.
Solution
Given the customer’s infrastructure challenges, Colombian distributor SAC was confident in recommending the NVT Phybridge CLEER24 EoC (Ethernet over Coax) managed switch. The award-winning CLEER24 enterprise-grade switch provides Ethernet and PoE+ over Coax with up to 6,000ft (1,830m) reach – 18 times farther than standard PoE switches.
In just a few simple setup steps, the CLEER24 transformed the Coax cabling into the power-packed IP platform needed to support the new IP cameras while eliminating the need to install costly IDF closets. “In our case where distance limitations were a critical issue, NVT Phybridge made all the difference when other solutions on the market could not,” said Paula Rosana Murillo, Business Development Coordinator at SAC. “Not only did the NVT Phybridge solution take the signal and transmit it through the Coax wiring to extremely far distances, but it also provided power to the IP cameras.”
Result
The Colombian Army was able to quickly and easily deploy over 100 IP cameras throughout the entire facility with virtually no disruption to operations. For the integrator, this was a professionally enriching experience. “NVT Phybridge, through its Colombian distributor SAC, facilitated access to technical training and support to ensure the proper usage of these products. This allowed the integrator to have greater confidence in the implementation of the technology,” commented Oscar Triviño, Project Manager in charge of the CLAVE facility construction. “The NVT Phybridge CLEER24 solution generated savings of more than $56,000 USD in wiring, electrical infrastructure, and manpower while connecting all cameras to the power source in the most effective way possible.”
The Colombian Government used the CLEER24 switch to implement Modern LAN principles and fast-track the modernization to IP while eliminating risk and creating a robust IP platform. The solution removed all infrastructure barriers, service outages, security risks, network complexities, and wasted budgets. “The NVT Phybridge solution provides exceptional video quality. The Colombian Army is now able to take full advantage of its high-quality, state-of-the-art IP cameras and is incredibly satisfied with the project’s results.”
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If you have an upcoming IP or IoT modernization project, we would love to help. Book a one-on-one meeting with one of our Digital Transformation Consultants to review your environment and discuss the best options for your organization.
BOOK A MEETINGThe Modern LAN: Treating Exceptions as the Norm
Treating Exceptions as the Norm
GUEST BLOG: Melanie Turek, Vice President of Research, Connected Work, Frost & Sullivan
Ask most network architects about the local area networks they manage, and they will likely regale you with a clear list of their preferred networking vendors and products for each of their environments. One thing that rarely comes up: the exceptions that lurk within every corporate LAN.
Exceptions are the one-offs, such as that IP phone on the loading dock that is just a little too far away from the nearest wiring closet to connect via standard Ethernet, or using dongles and an existing coaxial cable to plug a security camera into the network. All but the most generic of local area networks contain these dirty little secrets; the network administrators and architects I’ve spoken to will admit to them only grudgingly, with a wink and a nod.
The challenge, however, is that with the convergence of technologies on the LAN—including not only communications and security devices, but a whole fleet of IoT sensors and endpoints—the risks posed by seemingly benign one-off exceptions are all too real. That casual wink and nod could easily turn into a look of dread as more and more networked devices require non-standard equipment to work as desired—and blow up any semblance of network optimization, performance and security in the process. What’s more, administrators could find themselves dealing with scores of unique fixes, without relying on the rigorous processes that are foundational to any successful IT operation.
Helping companies deal with such exceptions is just one of several challenges Frost & Sullivan’s analyst team aimed to mitigate as we developed a new set of best practices for local area networks, which we are calling the “Modern LAN.” The solution: When it comes to dealing with exceptions, it is time to stop treating them as exceptions.
As non-traditional devices become the norm, network architects simply must come to terms with the fact that solutions such as Long-Reach Power over Ethernet (LRPoE) switches must be included as part of the approved network architecture, even if that means deploying new network design techniques and technologies. It also means being open to the possibility of including new suppliers and certifying new products as part of corporate-approved solutions. Incorporating and supporting a wider array of compatible network infrastructure gear gives both architects and the administrators in the field a fresh set of tools to deploy networks reflective of the devices that are making their way into corporate offices, shop floors and remote sites.
“Dealing with Exceptions” is just one of several design best practices incorporated in the Modern LAN. To learn more, read the whitepaper “The Modern LAN: Rethinking Network Design for the Modern Age”, available at www.themodernlan.org
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If you have an upcoming IP or IoT modernization project, we would love to help. Book a one-on-one meeting with one of our Digital Transformation Consultants to review your environment and discuss the best options for your organization.
BOOK A MEETINGFederal Agency Saves $1.2 Million While Modernizing to IP Phones
NVT Phybridge Case Study: Federal Agency
One of the largest US Federal Government Agencies was using a variety of outdated PBX solutions, from various vendors, across multiple locations. The Agency wanted to consolidate all sites to a single IP-based VoIP solution from a single vendor. The plan was to deploy a cloud-based solution and connect all locations to it, allowing them to improve management efficiency, reduce cost and complexity, and centralize monitoring, management, and updating requirements. However, the local area network infrastructure was not ready and would require a significant overhaul.
Challenge
With no appropriate LAN infrastructure in place, the Agency realized the project would be financially prohibitive, complex, and disruptive. The organization would need to rip-and-replace the existing wiring infrastructure, establish a Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch fabric to power the phones, and address IDF closet requirements – including power availability, backup power, cooling, and rack space – at every location. These requirements posed a significant barrier to deploying the new solution. The customer needed a simplistic and robust solution to allow for a more graceful upgrade.
Solution
The customer discovered the NVT Phybridge PoLRE® (Power over Long Reach Ethernet) switch and engaged with a digital transformation consultant to learn more. The PoLRE switch delivers power and data over any new or existing single-pair UTP (CAT3) infrastructure, with up to 1,200ft (365m) reach – that’s four times farther than standard PoE switches. The customer was impressed with the technology and arranged for a proof-of-concept to test the solution in a live environment. After just a few simple setup steps, the PoLRE switch transformed the customer’s existing voice infrastructure into a secure and robust IP backbone with more than enough reach and bandwidth to support IP phones exactly where they were needed.
Result
The NVT Phybridge PoLRE solution immediately solved the customer’s problems, allowing the Agency to quickly and easily modernize to IP without disruption. Rob Wynn, Operations Manager at Optivor, said, “there was literally no disruption. Employees left work one day and returned the next day to a new IP phone.” Wynn continues by explaining that “NVT Phybridge eliminated many of the risks associated with the massive upgrade and allowed the Agency to centralize call control and move to an all IP platform with the same repeatable, predictable, and scalable deployment experience across all locations.” Wynn also commented that since the installation, there had been no quality of service issues.
High network costs were also a pain point for the customer while planning the modernization. However, “the customer saved over $1.2 million in infrastructure cost savings thanks to the PoLRE switch,” said Wynn. “PoLRE significantly reduced the cost to establish a robust PoE backbone to support the IP phones, allowing the Agency to improve ROI by allocating more of its budget to IP applications and devices.”
By leveraging NVT Phybridge technology, each location, regardless of size, was able to quickly and easily move to IP without risk, disruption, network complexity, or high costs. Additionally, the Agency was able to establish a robust and secure PoE backbone in an environmentally responsible manner, repurposing the existing and proven infrastructure to reduce e-waste substantially.
“I was expecting issues like we usually see with larger deployments, but when there were none, I was pleasantly surprised,” Wynn commented. “In addition to no day-two LAN issues, we were able to fast-track the IP modernization given the simplicity, repeatability, and effectiveness of the PoLRE switch offering.”
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If you have an upcoming IP or IoT modernization project, we would love to help. Book a one-on-one meeting with one of our Digital Transformation Consultants to review your environment and discuss the best options for your organization.
BOOK A MEETINGGovernment Agency Deploys over 8,000 Hanwha IP Cameras Using CLEER24
Massive Surveillance Upgrade for Government Agency Aimed at Generating Benefits Beyond Security
A Government Agency was relying on an outdated analog surveillance system and wanted to upgrade to a comprehensive IP solution. The massive surveillance upgrade would take place across 360 customs offices and border crossing locations, with the objective of increasing their ability to identify risks and reducing response time to threats. The Agency was also looking to improve efficiency by automating most of the processing of imports and exports coming in and out of the country, with the objective of increasing economic growth and foreign trade.
However, planning an upgrade of this immense scale presented critical obstacles. The Agency determined that over 8,000 existing analog devices needed to be modernized to Hanwha IP cameras. The first system integrator (SI) proposed a traditional approach which would have involved ripping and replacing the existing Coax-based infrastructure, along with installing hundreds of new IDF closets to accommodate the long-reach requirements. The customer was unsatisfied with this solution as they were extremely concerned with:
Given the massive size of the project, the SI was concerned with:
Change the Conversation; Improve the Outcome
Unsatisfied with the proposed upgrade plan, the Government Agency turned to another SI to help find a better solution. The SI searched for a better approach and discovered the Modern LAN design principles, recognizing the opportunity to change the conversation by introducing new innovation and Power over Ethernet technology. The customer was immediately impressed with the innovative approach but was skeptical that the methodology would work in their environment.
The SI introduced the customer to NVT Phybridge Ethernet over Coax technology. Due to the success of past installations, the SI recommended the NVT Phybridge Ethernet over Coax (EoC) solution. The customer engaged in a no-obligation proof of concept to test the solution in their environment. After a few simple setup steps, the CLEER24 Ethernet over Coax switch transformed the existing and reliable Coax infrastructure into a power-packed IP/PoE backbone, capable of supporting the new Hanwha IP cameras with up to 6,000ft (1,830m) reach – 18 times farther than standard Ethernet switches. Given the Agency’s existing point-to-point topology of the coax-based infrastructure in every location, the SI was able to apply a repeatable, predictable, and scalable deployment methodology in all 360 locations; eliminating risk and fast-tracking the digital transformation for the Agency.
The NVT Phybridge CLEER24 switch helped the Agency transform its existing and reliable Coax-based infrastructure into a power-packed IP platform; completely eliminating the need to rip-and-replace the existing infrastructure. The Agency was confident that NVT Phybridge would deliver a simple, secure, and cost-effective upgrade to IP surveillance.
Create a secure and robust local area network – The Agency established a secure and robust Power over Ethernet backbone for their new IP surveillance system by leveraging the existing and reliable Coax-based infrastructure. The CLEER24 EoC switch allowed the customer to maintain a physically separate and cyber-secure point-to-point IP network for surveillance, ensuring zero disruption and risk to the core network.
Use new long-reach PoE innovations to maximize ROI – by leveraging the existing surveillance infrastructure, the SI helped the customer reduce infrastructure costs by over $3 million and accelerate the deployment time by 80%.
Modernize to IP using an environmentally responsible framework – by avoiding the traditional rip-and-replace upgrade model, the Government Agency prevented over 60 tons of e-waste from their digital transformation. The Agency also avoided installing a single IDF closet thanks to CLEER24’s long reach capabilities; greatly reducing the organization’s ongoing energy consumption. The Government Agency has received the highest rating, 5-stars, for its exceptional transformation.
The customer’s new IP surveillance system, now consisting of over 8,000 new Hanwha IP cameras, delivers high-resolution viewing and recording capabilities; providing officials with better recognition and identification of potential safety threats at over 360 key customs and border crossing locations. The Agency was also able to leverage new business intelligence and technology to implement a new automated customs process. The integration of QR readers within the import and export locations has allowed the Agency to:
A Better Outcome for the Reseller and the Customer
The SI took a proactive approach to find new and better ways to support their customer’s digital transformation objectives to achieve incredible results.
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