ABOUT CABLESOLVE
What is CableSolve?
CableSolve is an advanced enterprise-ready Connectivity and Infrastructure Management System that provides portable, end to end management and documentation of the network connectivity and physical infrastructure of companies with medium to very large enterprise voice and data networks.
CableSolve is based on the latest portable Pocket PC and client/server Microsoft Windows .NET technology, backed up by MS SQL server and Pocket PC barcode scanning technology to provide desktop and portable platforms for managing the physical cabling and connectivity as well as the IT assets of companies. Portability makes CableSolve ideal for instantly recording changes as well as for troubleshooting.
How does CableSolve work?
CableSolve consists of three software components: an application that runs on a Pocket PC (with or without barcode scanner), a desktop and server component.
The Pocket PC handheld scanner provides the portability to collect and record information on equipment and connections around the facility for total mobility and flexibility.
The desktop is used for reporting and planning purposes as well as providing end to end management, reporting and control.
The server provides access to CableSolve data from multiple clients and to provide a destination to which the Pocket PC device database is synchronised. Synchronisation can be via a cradle (USB / Serial / Ethernet) or wirelessly. The server is able to query the network equipment using SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) and together with Windows SNMP enabled devices, can help keep the CableSolve database up to date in a more automated manner. SNMP also enables automated tracking of connectivity of IP enabled devices as well as to acquire information on the software and hardware profile of the IP devices. See CableSolve Overview.
CableSolve does not just concentrate on managing the patch panels but also manages the entire physical infrastructure from the structured cabling to the switches, routers, and PABX's all the way to the outlets, desktop PCs and telephones, infact the entire physical infrastructure.
At its simplest, CableSolve can be used without any changes to the installed cabling infrastructure. However, for maximum functionality, convenience and usability, CableSolve uses barcode labels to identify spaces, equipment and cables. However, there is no need to barcode everything.
CableSolve is completely independent of cabling brand, type or performance category and can be easily configured to manage systems designed for either inter-connect or cross-connect, all using the existing infrastructure components (particularly standard existing patch cords). CableSolve does not require any additional electronics to interface to and uses industry standard work practices to use the software.
How is CableSolve different from other Cabling Management Systems in the market today?
Cabling Mangement Systems in the market today are generally hardware based or purely desktop software based systems.
CableSolve is different from other software systems because other software systems are just desktop-based. They do not provide work-area availability of network records wherever you are. This makes other software based systems seem like an improved version of a Microsoft Excel® spreadsheet. CableSolve provides central and on-site availability of network infrastructure information through its desktop/server and handheld clients.
Hardware Cabling Management Systems have too many system components (the patch panel, the patch cord, the analyser, and the software) that will require the regular purchase and upgrade of additional hardware making them less cost effective.
Intelligent Cable Management Systems (ICMS) or Active Patching Systems work well but only at the patch panel. The big issue with most ICMS' is that apart from the patch panel, they do not help the user manage the remote end. It is a common sight to find a network administrator do very well in making several patches at the patch panel but eventually find himself lost and not knowing where to find cables and ports when he is in the office space area. This scenario usually becomes worse because the network administrator does not have the network records with him.
FEATURES
Is the user interface easy to navigate? Is the information shown logically laid out and complete without being confusing? Does the system show the whole channel of connectivity in a clear logical way? Is it easy to use?
Yes, CableSolve uses the familiar and logical MS® Explorer style tree view to show the whole channel or end to end connectivity. It is easy to use and learn. Our existing customers can attest to the significant time and effort they saved after implementing CableSolve.
Can CableSolve detect changes in network connectivity automatically?
Yes. CableSolve discovers new equipment as it is added and removed from the network and provides alerts when these changes occur. It can automatically update the location of an asset based on SNMP and stored connectivity information.
Can it show port and equipment locations? Can it locate any device in the facility?
Yes, CableSolve can show port and equipment locations through the MS® Explorer style tree view and through imported CAD floor plans in both desktop and handheld clients.
A simple scan of anything in the system with a barcode will take you directly to the component. Alternativley CableSolve can do a quick search for any device by asset number, serial number, application, customer, IP address or any other criteria.
Can CableSolve manage tasks and projects and assign work orders?
Yes. Work orders are created in the desktop or imported and are syncronised to the Pocket PC. The work order in the Pocket PC guides the user through the changes to be made and immediately records the changes made. Management of work orders in CableSolve is easy because they can be tracked until the tasks are completed.
Does CableSolve manage software assets too?
Yes. CableSolve manages not only hardware assets but also installed software. It discovers newly installed software and tracks all changes made to the installed software as they occur. It tracks used and available licenses and provides alerts when licenses are exceeded.
Is CableSolve capable of audits?
Yes. CableSolve audit is as simple as scanning a barcode or tapping a Pocket PC screen. It is able to deternine and report on discrepancies between the infrastructure recorded in CableSolve and the actual physical assets in the facility.
Different types of audits can be conducted on assets and infrastructure recorded in the database, and/or on connectivity records. Audits can be pre-scheduled and assigned to specific staff members if required.
Is CableSolve a network manager like HP Openview?
No, CableSolve is not a network manager. It manages the physical layer but it can integrate with the leading Network Management Systems.
Can CableSolve interface with other asset management and graphics software like CAD or Visio?
Yes, CableSolve can integrate with asset management systems. It can import and configure floor plans from major CAD systems.
Is CableSolve Real Time?
Yes and No.
No in the sense that CableSolve does not instantly detect a change in a patch panel patch. However it does have automation, and it is active management in the sense that it automatically discovers IP network changes and provides alerts to Engineers through its SNMP module.
Yes in the sense that changes are recorded as you make them using the Pocket PC. Making any change made anywhere updated in the database as it is made.
Through the Auto Sync process, there is also an assurance that information from both the handheld and desktop databases are synchronised with one other, resulting in identical sets of databases.
Does CableSolve meet and work with industry standards?
CableSolve software supports compliance with ANSI/TIA/EIA 606A, EN 50174 PT2, and ISO 14763. Warnings are also generated whenever connections are not compliant to NSI/TIA/EIA 568B, ISO/IEC 11801, and CENELEC EN 50173.
Is CableSolve proprietary? Can it retrofit to existing installations?
CableSolve is not proprietary. It can be used with any type of patch panel, cabling connectivity system and absolutely any IT asset. It is not locked into one vendor's cabling system. CableSolve runs on an open platform that can support any type of connectivity and any infrastructure configuration or asset type.
CableSolve supports any type of structured cabling system, including 110 or 210, modular, fibre and legacy cabling. Implementation of CableSolve involves adding barcodes to key components, including communications equipment, peripheral equipment, patch panels and patch cords. Because of this, CableSolve can manage all aspects of the IT infrastructure rather than just the structured cabling components.
CableSolve works in WAN, MAN and LAN environments.
Can CableSolve be accessed via the internet or intranet?
CableSolve can be accessed via customers' intranet or VPN.
Does it support cross-connect or inter-connect, modular or pair manageable environments?
Yes. CableSolve supports any type of structured cabling system, including 110 or 210, modular, fiber and legacy cabling.
Can the system import cabling test records and export records for use in reporting or other systems you may have?
Yes. CableSolve allows records to be imported from or exported to Excel spreadsheets or asset management systems and cabling testing devices for detailed customised reports.
TECHNICAL
Is there a limit to the number of ports CableSolve can manage?
CableSolve uses Microsoft® SQL server to store and manage the connectivity infrastructure data.
This means that there are no practical limits to the size of installations that can be managed by CableSolve.
Does CableSolve support LAN and WAN environments?
Yes. The architecture of CableSolve is designed to support LAN and WAN environments, including GPRS, etc. It is also possible to run desktop and Pocket PC systems remotely from the main server. Only an IP connection is required.
SUPPORT
Will there be network downtime while CableSolve is being installed and configured?
There is no need for down time to install CableSolve.
Will installing CableSolve void my existing manufacturer warranties?
No. CableSolve can be implemented without affecting any equipment warranties.
What training is avaliable?
There are two CableSolve training courses available: User training and the Installation and Implementation training. Both are provided by Authorised CableSolve Channel Partners.
Who carries out CableSolve's technical support?
Initial technical support will be provided by the Authorised Channel Partner who installed the product. CableSolve users are automatically entitled to full access of our web support pages and patch releases. In addition, Cormant Technologies offers a maintenance program (available through our resellers), which provides access to functional enhancements. Direct technical support by email or by simply dialing a toll free number, 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year is also available.
INVESTMENT
How does CableSolve compare in price with other cable management software solutions?
CableSolve is significantly cheaper to purchase, install and maintain than traditional ICMS'.
Does the system provide scalability & flexibility, will it meet my needs in three years time?
Yes. CableSolve is developed on a Microsoft ® .NET® framework for reliability, scalability, and ease of use and is designed to meet your needs several years into the future.
How many handheld scanners do I need?
The number of handheld scanners depends upon the requirements of the user.
What is the ROI(Return on Investment)?
Typically it is 8 to 15 months, however this varies according to the size of each customer's organisation. CableSolve provides an ROI calculator for your specific ROI to be determined based on your own working parameters.
Is the cost of CableSolve based on the performance level of my cabling system?
No. The cost of CableSolve is calculated based on the number of ports or devices that the installed software is to manage, regardless of cabling performance and rating.
Who will audit my site to price my network for CableSolve application?
The initial site audit can be carried out by your preferred Authorised CableSolve Channel Partner or yourself if you prefer.
REFERENCE SITES
Who are your current customers?
See this link to our existing customers
What existing reference sites do you have?
Reference site information is readily available upon request.
Finally, where can I purchase CableSolve?
You may purchase CableSolve through our Authorised Channel Partners. Please refer to the Channel Partners Section of this website or contact us by sending an email to sales@cormant.com so we can get you in touch with a CableSolve Representative.
Other Relevant FAQs:
TECHNICAL
What type of platform does CableSolve run on?
CableSolve has both desktop and handheld components.
The desktop component can run on Windows® 2000/2003 and Windows® XP and includes a stand-alone database engine to store connectivity infrastructure details. Alternatively, CableSolve can utilise a Microsoft® SQL server database, which allows several users to manage the infrastructure simultaneously.
The handheld component runs on any Pocket PC® (version 2002 or 2003), but for best results requires a barcode reader to instantly record information. We recommend Symbol® MC 50 ruggedised devices. You can use other Pocket PC devices and if required add barcode scanning capabilities by means of the Socket Communications CF scanners for devices with Compact Flash expansion slots.
How much memory does the Windows CE device require to run CableSolve?
For CableSolve to run sites of up to 300,000 ports effectively, at least 64MB RAM is recommended. Bigger sites are supported using Flash memory and are effectively unlimited in size
Does CableSolve slow down or interfere with my data communications?
CableSolve does not directly interface with the connectivity infrastructure to record data, infrastructure engineers record and manage moves, adds and changes with the use of portable scanners and barcode identifications on ports and cables. The proper use of CableSolve's audit module ensures that cabling and infrastructure records are always up to date.
SUPPORT
Do I need a certified CableSolve reseller to install CableSolve? Can I install CableSolve myself?
Cormant is convinced that maximum benefit can be gained from having the system installed by a CableSolve Authorised Reseller. However, it is possible to fully install and configure the system independently.
Is it necessary to formally train my staff or implement new procedures?
No it is not "necessary", however it is highly recommended. Training is an investment of time. It is an investment in your staff and this comes back to the company in the form of improved productivity, for not only your staff, but also the clients, the end users. The implementation of new procedures goes hand-in-hand with the adoption of CableSolve's new streamlined functions.
In cases such as this, you may ask your reseller to contact us to become an Authorised CableSolve Channel Partner or we will also put you in touch with our current pool of Channel Partners.
Does CableSolve come with a warranty?
CableSolve comes with a warranty against defects in workmanship of materials. In accordance with industry-wide practice, the software itself is not under warranty. However, purchase of the software provides 60 days of free e-mail and phone technical support. Cormant also offers downloading of patches for the particular version purchased, as well as access to exclusive customer or partner web support pages.
Who supplies the Symbol Windows CE Scanner for CableSolve?
Scanners are normally supplied by your CableSolve Channel Partner. Your local Cormant Technologies representative will be happy to assist in the event scanners are not available from your CableSolve Channel Partner.
Who provides the technical support for the Symbol Scanner?
The Symbol Scanner's authorised dealer/reseller. Symbol Technologies is the world's largest vendor of scanning engines and enjoys corresponding product support in most countries. Each scanner purchased will be enrolled in the Symbol maintenance program for the first year.
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