Taking a harder look
International Fiber Systems Inc. (IFS) has announced the introduction of its EtherNav D7600 Series of managed layer 2 Ethernet switches. A managed Ethernet switch is a device that segments Ethernet network traffic to enhance performance and for better bandwidth allocation. It has become an essential piece of equipment when local-area networks (LAN) are handling multiple devices such as cameras and DVRs. A managed switch allows “virtual local area networks” or (VLANS) to be created that allows networks to be created using software rather than hardware. The IFS EtherNav line will consist of 12 models that have nine individual ports that can be configured with a range from strictly electrical ports to various combinations of electrical, multimode fiber or single-mode fiber ports. An interesting feature of the EtherNav line is the inclusion of a gigabit electrical or optical port in some models. As more and more devices are being integrated onto these Ethernet networks, bandwidth can become an issue. By utilizing a gigabit Ethernet (1 Gbps) port, it provides a significant increase in bandwidth over older Fast Ethernet. This allows devices utilizing EtherNav switches to be easily integrated into larger networks. IFS is one of the first manufacturers to utilize a gigabit Ethernet transmission capability in its initial managed switch product line introduction. The EtherNav Series also features Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (IEE 802.1w) for quick data recovery.
The EtherNav Managed Ethernet Switch has several mechanisms to monitor, configure and manage the VLAN it is tasked to manage. A console interface using a standard RS-232 interface allows for local network control from a standard PC. Alternatively, a web-based graphical user interface (GUI) will allow for remote configuration control from anywhere on an Ethernet-based network.
For higher level system management, the EtherNav line supports Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) Version 2C and is RFC1213 compliant. The benefit of SNMP is that it allows for a standards-based network element management system to be utilized for status monitoring and management of the network.
The EtherNav Managed Ethernet Switch was designed from the ground up to be mechanically and environmentally hardened for use in unconditioned environments. It has passed rigorous tests and meets the Caltrans and NEMA test standards. Many of the current competitive models available are not designed for more demanding outdoor and factory installations. The IFS EtherNav Series can be configured with a redundant power supply for greater reliability and is one of the only managed switches available with that feature.
All models of the EtherNav Series are FCC and CE compliant and have an operating temperature range of -40°C to 74°C.
IFS
203/426-1180
www.ifs.com
Instant message
The instALERT Portable Variable Message Sign is ideal for informing the public of road conditions, accidents and emergencies. This full-size, full-matrix portable electronic message sign can be dispatched from the back of a vehicle and set up by a single person in less than five minutes. Use it to quickly communicate exactly what you need, when you need, where you need. The instALERT can be mounted in a number of ways including the hitch receiver of the vehicle, a portable or stationary post and a trailer. The instALERT weighs just over 40 lb and unfolds from a carrying size only 3 in. deep by 28 in. tall by 30 in. wide to a full matrix display. The flexibility provided by the instALERT ease of dispatch, use and positioning offers the best messaging alternative available. With the ability to store 25 pre-programmed text/graphic messages or customize them on site using a laptop or PDA, the instALERT is a must have tool for anyone who needs to communicate on short notice with the public.
International Road Dynamics Inc.
877/862-6868
www.ird.ca
Tiling the standard
After almost a decade-long moratorium, detectable warning surfaces alerting visually impaired pedestrians to approaching hazards is again required by law. The U.S. Department of Transportation and the Access Board have published guidelines that set the new standards. Under these guidelines, construction work at a street intersection, crosswalk and all adjacent pedestrian areas (whether it involves the sidewalk or not) must be made ADA compliant under the same contract. Compliance means that the surface of the pedestrian approach to a street requires a ramp with a detectable warning surface. This may require retrofitting or replacing newly constructed non-compliant locations. Major cities, small towns and private developers have begun to retrofit crosswalks in order to meet these new requirements. STEP-SAFE polymer concrete tiles have been used for street corner ramps, crosswalks, train/subway station platforms and commercial locations since 1993. STEP-SAFE was designed to meet the requirements of the Public Rights-of-Way Access Advisory Report (Jan. 2001, Part III, Section X02.5). STEP-SAFE tiles are constructed of a special precast polymer concrete matrix, making them high-strength, resistant to wear, weather and corrosion, assuring a long life. The exposed coarse angular sand on the back side of each tile creates a strong bond when placed in fresh concrete or exterior grade tile mortars. STEP-SAFE skid-resistant tiles are available in 300-mm squares (12 in. x 12 in. x .5 in. installed). They are easy to install and require no maintenance. STEP-SAFE was developed by Castek Inc., a Transpo Industries Co.
Transpo Industries Co.
914/636-1000
www.transpo.com
Taking another turn
Transoft Solutions Inc. has just released the newest version of AutoTURN. AutoTURN 5 features an improved interface, powerful new analysis tools and enhancements to popular commands.
Oversteer Corner Path allows designers to evaluate a vehicle’s turn behavior more realistically by allowing definition of entry and exit offsets associated with over-steered conditions. Perhaps the most unique new addition to AutoTURN 5 is the Place Offset Simulation tool, which allows users to draw a vehicle simulation that maintains a constant clearance from a roadway element such as a curb. In essence, the user simply selects an offset distance from the travel way edge, and the software automatically draws the simulation.
More new features include:
- A flexible template generator capable of creating standard or user-defined turning templates;
- Vehicle envelope hatching for improved visual analysis and presentations;
- Dynamic turn radius displays for instant read-outs;
- Hands-on calculator for determining steering lock angles for user-defined vehicles;
- Ability to create simulations using splines;
- Expanded vehicle library; and
- Compatible with AutoCAD 2005 and MicroStation V8 2004 (V8.5).
Transoft Solutions Inc.
604/244-8387
www.transoftsolutions.com
www.optelecom.com
Showing cards
Optelecom announces the release of the 9821 series of optical repeater/converter cards. The cards were developed to provide conversion of multimode to single-mode fiber signals and optical repeater functions in extremely long distance transmission systems. Available in versions that support most of Optelecom’s nine- and 10-bit digital video and data optical transmission cards, the repeater/converter is used to change fiber types or to extend transmission distance without conversion of the signals back into analog for retransmission. The unit also is available in versions supporting SpectraStream CWDM technology, providing conversion of optical signals into CWDM compatible optical signals. The cards operate in Optelecom Series 9000 chassis with versions supporting from two to 18 cards per chassis. Markets include integrators and installers of large security systems or intelligent transportation systems.
Optelecom Inc.
800/293-4237, ext. 276
www.optelecom.com
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