Mapping in a snap, Combined Database, CAD technologies simplify network topology management

A software system initially aimed at helping network operators document the network devices they deploy can also allow carriers to generate maps of their network topologies, detailed down to the individual device.

The Command Enterprise Network Documentation System combines an easily constructed and maintained database of network components and connections with a computer-aided design-based graphics system to generate accurate maps of central offices, customer premises and other facilities.

Although the system was designed to meet business needs such as relocations, mergers and acquisitions, network outsourcing, backup and disaster recovery planning and tax reporting, carriers can also use the software to help field service engineers pinpoint the precise locations of failed components, said Tammy Fennell, director of product marketing at Santa Ana, Calif.-based Cambio Networks.

"The assets [of Command] are increasingly important to keep track of as their potential value increases. Command is an easy way to maintain a logical view of those networks and ensure that those views are up to date," said Fennell.

The system is a set of integrated applications with both Hewlett-Packard and Sun Unix client and server elements and a newly developed Windows 95/NT client. The Windows client provides access to a centralized repository of network information based on a documentation model unique to the Command system, which resides within database platforms from Oracle, Sybase or Informix.

The Windows client in the latest software version increases management control over network assets by providing network information to technicians, Help Desk personnel and other front-line support personnel, who often work from distributed sites. The new client functions as a data entry and search and analysis tool to enhance usage and streamline data loading tasks. This allows existing networks to be inventoried and mapped quickly and guarantees that changes made in the field will be updated as they happen.

"Updating [other systems] for changes made in the field has been difficult," said Fennell. "The Windows client gives service personnel a familiar environment to work in, and they can remotely enter information as the changes are made.

The Windows client provides navigation aids to streamline the task of loading network component information into the system. Once this data is entered, a graphical interface dynamically links the network information captured by the Windows client to graphical models of network equipment, network drawings and maps.

When the system is linked to network monitoring tools, through an API that allows third-party network management and work flow products to communicate and exchange data with Command and its database, components suffering from performance problems appear as flashing red icons on the maps.

"This allows our customers to take advantage of the best management system for their situations, whether they're using HP OpenView, SunNetManager, Cabletron Spectrum or OSI NetExpert," said Fennell.

"Cambio's system allows decisions to be made more efficiently by integrating tightly with other network management applications and providing an account of all physical attributes related to the network," said John Morency, director of the Network Industry Practice for The Registry Inc., a Newton, Mass.-based consulting firm.