AMP Net Connect AMPTRAC Whitepage

8/2/2019 AMP Net Connect AMPTRAC Whitepage

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AMPNETCONNECT

AMPTRACCABLING

MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Real-Time, Real Smart Cabling Management


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS.......................................................................................................... 2INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................... 3HOW THE SYSTEM WORKS.................................................................................................. 4THE AMPTRAC SYSTEM....................................................................................................... 5ANALYZER ............................................................................................................................. 6PATCH CORDS....................................................................................................................... 7INPUT/OUTPUT (I/O) CABLES (24 PORT) ............................................................................ 8INPUT/OUTPUT (I/O) CABLES (LESS THAN 24 PORTS) .................................................... 8REFERENCE CABLE.............................................................................................................. 9SENSOR PEN .......................................................................................................................10SENSOR STRIPS.................................................................................................................. 10AMP NETCONNECT UTP PATCH PANELS........................................................................11AMP NETCONNECT SHIELDED TWISTED-PAIR PATCH PANELS................................... 12AMP NETCONNECT MRJ21 PATCH PANELS.................................................................... 13AMP NETCONNECT OPTICAL FIBER PATCH PANELS .................................................... 13IM SOFTWARE ..................................................................................................................... 14DESIGN CONFIGURATION .................................................................................................. 16CONCLUSION....................................................................................................................... 18


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INTRODUCTION

Network communications are a vital part of the day-to-day operations within an organization.The cabling infrastructure is an even more critical portion today, as organizations continue to

invest in the latest advancements in computers, high-speed networks, and cabling systems.

As the complexity and speed of the networking infrastructure increase, so does the

importance of reducing down time. To minimize down time, and to streamline the moves,

adds and changes (MAC) process, an effective cabling management system that documents

the cable plant is a critical addition to the physical layer infrastructure.

To respond to these needs, Tyco Electronics AMP NETCONNECT along with software

partner iTRACS have created an intelligent structured cabling management solution called

The AMP NETCONNECT AMPTRAC Cabling Management System. In basic terms, the

system monitors patch cord connections between ports by monitoring the continuity between

sensor pads. Network equipment and AMPTRAC-enabled AMP NETCONNECT patch

panels have sensor pads above each port. Analyzers, which are active hardware

components connected to the sensor pads via input/output (I/O) cables, detect when the

AMPTRAC conductor in an AMPTRAC patch cord completes a circuit between two sensor

pads. The Analyzer communicates that information and the iTRACS Infrastructure Manager

Software takes action based on that information.

This integrated, intelligent, structured cabling solution automates the management of the

physical layer, which minimizes network downtime, reduces staff workload, reduces MAC

implementation, and improves MAC accuracy. The system will also provide security benefits

as well as complete up-to-date documentation for troubleshooting and disaster recovery

preparedness.


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HOW THE SYSTEM WORKS

When an AMPTRAC patch cord is inserted into a monitored port, a

spring-loaded pin (located in the boot of the patch cord plug)

touches the sensor strip (see photo on right). That spring-loaded

pin is connected to the spring-loaded pin in the boot of the other

plug by a conductive wire. When the other plug of this patch cord is inserted into another

monitored port, a closed electrical circuit is established between the two sensor strip pads.

Similarly, when either plug of the patch cord is disconnected, that electrical circuit is broken

(see figures below).

The AMPTRAC Analyzer detects this closing or opening of each electrical circuit as well as

the exact port identifiers (sensor pads) and communicates this information to the iTRACS IM

Analyzer

Port #1

Port #2

I/O Cable

Sensor Pad

Sensor Pad

Open Circuit

(no connected patch cord)

Analyzer

Port #1

Port #2

I/O Cable

Sensor Pad

Sensor Pad

Closed Circuit

(connected patch cord)

Patch Cord

Analyzer

Port #1

Port #2

I/O Cable

Sensor Pad

Sensor Pad

Open Circuit

(disconnected patch cord)

Patch Cord


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software over a TCP/IP network connection. It is important to note that these AMPTRAC

circuits are constructed outside of the normal data path, so there is no impact on data flow,

system integrity, or network performance.

THE AMPTRAC SYSTEM

A typical AMPTRAC system includes analyzers, AMPTRAC-enabled patch panels, sensor

strips (placed on LAN switches), Input/Output (I/O) cables from the sensor pads to the

analyzer, and AMPTRAC patch cords in each monitored location. The Analyzers and the

LAN2LAN3StatusPower

AMPTRACAnalyzer

TCP/IP Network

LAN2LAN3StatusPower

AMPTRACAnalyzer

AMPTRAC Server iTRACS SecureProtocol

Switch LED Status Switch LED Status

Switch LED StatusSwitch LED Status

AMPTRAC

I/O Cable

Ethernet

Analyzer

AMPTRAC

Patch Panel

Switch with Sensor Strip


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AMPTRAC Server (where the iTRACS IM software resides) are connected to a TCP/IP

network. These components are described further in the following paragraphs.

ANALYZER

When a patch cord is inserted or removed from a

port, the Analyzer discovers the connection or

disconnection and communicates the identification of

the ports to the iTRACS software over a TCP/IP

connection. The sensory circuit immediately notifies

the iTRACS database software to update and

document the connectivity change. This provides

network administrators with vital time saving, up-to-

the minute information about the status of their network from the hardware layer up, anytime,

anywhere. Any change in connectivity can be checked and authorization verified, and if

appropriate, action taken if the connect/disconnect is unauthorized. Since the whole system

is scalable, LAN administrators responsible for small networks or even large multi-site

networks can realize these benefits.

Analyzer Features:

For use in office buildings, data centers, and remote/branch offices

Sold with a license to the iTRACS IM software

Two analyzers available: 336-ports or 168-ports

Secured, keyed, reliable DB25 connection for I/O cables

Shallow depth of only 6.25 inches (16 cm)

Front

Rear


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Suitable for stand-alone (shelf) or for 19 rack or cabinet mounting

Large 4-line LCD display provides interactive communications with the database

Connection ports for PDAs, electronic tablets, or computers Three 10/100BASE-T Ethernet ports for connections to LAN and server

No added concerns over heat management in rack or cabinet

PATCH CORDS

AMPTRAC twisted-pair patch cords are standards-

compliant, although they dont look like a common patch

cord. The patch cords have that spring-loaded pin built

into the plug boots of the cord, which is connected to the

AMPTRAC conductor, a 9th

wire in a four-pair cable

assembly. The spring-loaded pin on each end of the cord

is designed to contact the sensor pad simply by mating

the connector no additional step is necessary. The

circuit is created when the patch cord is connected!

Similarly, AMPTRAC optical fiber patch cords feature

standards-compliant MT-RJ, LC, and SC connectors. The

AMPTRAC conductor is incorporated into the cable

assembly, and the spring-loaded pins are built onto the fiber

plugs. With optical fiber patch cords, the circuit is also

created when the patch cord is connected.


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INPUT/OUTPUT (I/O) CABLES (24 PORT)

The Input/Output cables provide the connection from the sensor strip pads to the Analyzer.

There are several I/O cable versions available.

Analyzer DB25-to-IDC punch down use with AMPTRAC-enabled Patch Panels (UTP,

MT-RJ or Duplex LC)

Analyzer DB25-to-110 Connector quick connection to AMPTRAC-enabled Patch

Panels(UTP, MT-RJ or Duplex LC)

Analyzer DB25-to-2.0mm connector use with PCB style sensor strips and AMPTRAC-

enabled shielded patch panels

Analyzer DB25-to-HD22 connector use with AMPTRAC-enabled MRJ21 Patch Panels

INPUT/OUTPUT (I/O) CABLES (LESS THAN 24 PORTS)

For optical fiber snap-in-adapters, MPO cassettes, and other sensor strips less than

24 ports, the I/O cable end on the Analyzer side is a 2.0mm connector. This 2.0mm


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connector plugs into a DB25-to-2.0mm adapter. The adapter allows for side-by-side

connections of multiple 2.0mm I/O connectors. These I/O cables are also available in

several constructions. 2.0mm-to-RJ11 - use with AMPTRAC MPO cassettes with MT-RJ or duplex LC

2.0mm-to-MTE - use with AMPTRAC Duplex SC adapter plates and AMPTRAC MPO

cassettes with SC duplex

2.0mm-to-2.0mm connector use with sensor strips less than 24 ports

REFERENCE CABLE

The analyzers transmit a unique signal for

each I/O port. When this signal is received on

another I/O port (when the circuit is closed),

the analyzer establishes that a connection has

been made. These signals are based on a

reference voltage.

When the two affected I/O ports belong to the same analyzer, these ports can be identified

internally. However, if the connected I/O ports are from different analyzers in the same zone

(TR), the reference voltages must be communicated between a reference port on each

analyzer. So, all analyzers that form a patch zone must be interconnected via a reference

cable, which is provided with each Analyzer. Longer reference cables, if needed, can be

easily made from 22 AWG cable terminated to 2 mm banana-type plugs.

Reference Cable


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SENSOR PEN

The Sensor Pen is used to map ports, identify

cord connections, and troubleshoot sensor strip

pads and analyzer cable connections. The pen

plugs into the Analyzers RJ11 modular jack

(located on the left side of the front panel).

Touching the pen to any ports sensor pad while

holding down the button on the pen will display

the port ID. For sensor pads with a connected patch cord, both ends of the patch cord will

be identified in the Analyzer LCD display.

SENSOR STRIPS

Sensor strips are available for most standard network

equipment and structured cabling components such as patch

panels, routers, switches, and hubs. AMPTRAC-enabled patch

panels and cassettes have the sensor strip built into the panel.

If necessary, sensor strips can be manufactured if a compatible

strip is not available.


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AMP NETCONNECT UTP PATCH PANELS

The AMPTRAC-enabled twisted-pair patch panel has sensorpads incorporated within the panel for enhanced protection,

appearance, and reliability. I/O connections are made via a

110 IDC punch down or with the 110 plug and play cable

assembly. Panels are available in standard versions and in

angled versions using Cat 5e and 6 SL series modular jacks.

Panel (6 Pack) with110 IDC I/O Cable

Panel with 110 Plugand Play I/O Cable


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SL Series

AMP NETCONNECT SHIELDED TWISTED-PAIR PATCH PANELS

AMPTRAC-enabled shielded 110Connect patch panels are Category 6, 10-gigabit ready and

AMPTRAC ready patch panels. These patch panels incorporate fully integrated sensor pads

for enhanced protection, appearance, and reliability.

AMPTRAC Ready patch panel versions are also available. These patch panels are easily

upgraded to AMPTRAC-enabled with a field-installed upgrade kit.

AMPTRAC-enabled SL series shielded

patch panels accept SL series shielded

jacks and utilize a 2.0mm I/O connection in

the rear of the panel or an HD22 connection

in the front of the panel.

Upgrade Kit

AMPTRAC-enabled

AMPTRAC Ready


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Rear

Front

AMP NETCONNECT MRJ21 PATCH PANELS

The AMPTRAC system is also compatible with thehigh-density and high performance AMP

NETCONNECT MRJ21 Cabling System. The

AMPTRAC MRJ21 panels provide high-density

MRJ21 ports in the rear and RJ45 ports in the

front. These panels utilize the HD22 style I/O

connector in the rear of the panel.

AMP NETCONNECT OPTICAL FIBER PATCH PANELS

1U and 4U AMPTRAC fiber enclosures accept MT-RJ jacks or SL series LC adapters. They

also accept AMPTRAC MPO cassettes (those without snap-in pins). The SL series six packs

utilize the 110 IDC or the plug and play I/O cable; the MPO cassettes utilize the 2.0mm-to-

RJ11 I/O cable.

1U AMPTRAC Enclosure

4U AMPTRAC Enclosure

MT-RJ Six Pack


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Standard AMP NETCONNECT fiber panels are used with AMPTRAC Duplex SC

connectivity. The 1U, 2U, 3U and 4U rack-mount designs accept from three (1U) to twelve

(4U) AMPTRAC Duplex SC snap-in adapter plates or AMPTRAC Duplex SC/MPO cassettes.

These adapter plates and cassettes utilize the 2.0mm-to-MTE I/O cable.

IM SOFTWARE

iTRACS IM software is designed to work

with the AMPTRAC Connectivity Manage-

ment Hardware. Together they create an

automated, accurate, real-time physical

layer management system. This combined

system proactively responds to changes in

connectivity and intelligently records your

cabling system and its devices with

accurate documentation. Eliminating a

time-consuming manual work order processes with an automated process simplifies the

procedure and provides timely and accurate notification of completed work. The software

2U Rack-mountEnclosure

AMPTRAC SCSnap-in Adapter

Plate

AMPTRAC MPO

Cassette


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can also generate utilization reports to assist efforts to maximize your existing network

investment by identifying under-utilized assets.

Software Features:

Real-Time monitoring automates the process of discovering, documenting, and

managing the physical network connections and its devices

Automatically updates the database with any detected change

Self-discover patching discovers all AMPTRAC-enabled port connectivity

Creates a log entry for every detected connectivity change

Reports authorized or unauthorized changes in real time

Automated work order process provides an automated work order system to be

shared by the Help Desk, network managers, and technicians - each user works from

a simple user interface that is unique to their task

Terminal service allows access via terminal service, allowing full functionality and

viewing by remote users

Security features distinguishes unauthorized changes from authorized ones then

issues alerts via email containing a pre-defined message

Detailed reports provide a library of detailed reports of cable, port, and asset

utilization for network administrators and asset managers

iTRACS IM software is ideally suited to customers with complex data/telecom networks and

critical applications such as financial institutions, insurance providers, data centers, high-

security government facilities, military defense facilities, airports, medical centers,

universities, and corporate headquarters. These customers and clients share the difficult

management of complicated networks, requiring accurate record-keeping, high security, and

frequent MACs.


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DESIGN CONFIGURATION

The AMP NETCONNECT AMPTRAC Cabling Management System can accommodate any

network infrastructure, including those with single and multiple floors and multi-building

campus network designs.

The AMPTRAC bills of materials, which include the Analyzers, I/O cables, Sensor Strips,

patch cords, and patch panels are based on the number and type of monitored ports at each

location. For each telecommunications room (TR), for example, add the number of

monitored patch panel and LAN electronic ports to get a monitored port count.

Next, determine the number of 336 and 168 port Analyzers that are required. Rooms with

large port counts may require multiple analyzers. This is accomplished by establishing a

Master Analyzer

HorizontalCable toOutlet

Analyzer to Sensor StripConnections on the Patch

Panel and Network Equipmentvia AMPTRAC I/O Cables

Network

Switch

Patch Panel

Analyzer to

NetworkConnection usesStandard Patch

Cord

Sensor

Strips onPatch Panel

and

NetworkEquipment

AMPTRACPatch Cord

LAN2LAN3StatusPower

AMPTRACAnalyzer

SwitcLED Slave

Reference Cable

Daisy Chain LAN Cable


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Master Analyzer then connecting multiple Slave Analyzers to the Master Analyzer. The

Analyzers are physically the same, but are simply configured as either the Master or as a

Slave Analyzer. Both ends of a physical connection to be monitored, typically the patchpanel and the LAN electronics, must be routed to the same Patch Zone (Master and Slaves).

For this reason, it is advisable to have only one Master analyzer per telecommunications

room. Remember to consider future expansion of monitored ports when determining the

Analyzer size or number of analyzers.

Then, determine the correct I/O cables and remaining components depending on the type of

panel or equipment port to be monitored.

Remember, there are no LAN backbone connections between the Analyzers in different

locations. The Master and Slave Analyzers have a unique IP address and communicate

through a TCP/IP network to each other. Only Master Analyzers communicate to the

iTRACS Server. Up to 195 individual analyzers can be connected together, providing a

maximum of 65520 monitored ports in a single patching zone.

The complete cable drop path to a work area outlet passes through two monitored ports, the

network equipment (switch) and the patch panel. Therefore, the number of cable drops is

half the number of ports monitored.

Additional information on design guidelines can be found in the AMPTRAC Hardware

Manual.


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CONCLUSION

The AMP NETCONNECT AMPTRAC Cabling Management System is an intelligent, real-

time structured cabling management solution that reduces the costs of running the network

infrastructure by minimizing network downtime, reducing staff workload, and streamlining the

moves, adds, and changes process by automating the management of the physical layer.

The solution provides a new level of security to the physical layer by providing real-time

centralized monitoring of critical network connections. These features make the AMPTRAC

solution a strategic enhancement tool for the network infrastructure system. Look no further

than Tyco Electronics for your cabling and cabling management solutions.

Documents

AMP Net Connect AMPTRAC Whitepage