Networking & Network Support

Expert staff employed by SES Computing undertake investigations for the realization of diverse networking requirements.

Firstly, SES staff consult fully with the client, to determine exact requirements, and carry out a site survey. The Network Configuration, full or part, is then designed specifically to satisfy the need, with the necessary levels of performance, capacity, and fault tolerance.

During the system design phase, advances in technology are always taken account of, but only incorporated if it is considered that overall system reliability will not be compromised. It is SES policy to specify components and equipment from manufacturers known by SES to supply products that have a high level of functionality and reliability.

Factors taken into consideration for configuring any network include:

1. The number of users, and the performance, ie bandwidth, needed by each user.
2. The nature of the site, in particular the design and disposition of buildings.
3. Delivery of data and telephony requirements.
4. Specified user functionality requirements.
5. Security of system and data.
6. Reliability and availability.
7. Special links and interfaces, to equipment such as machine tools, storage systems, measuring equipment, etc.
8. External links and interfaces.
9. Possible future requirements.
10. Costings.

Consideration of these factors will determine the nature of the NETWORK INFRASTRUCTURE, including the selection of DATA SWITCHES, TELEPHONE SWITCHES, ROUTERS, FIREWALLS, WIRELESS ACCESS POINTS, CONNECTORS, PATCH PANELS, CABLES, INTERFACES, etc. Configurations for FILE SERVERS will be specified, and appropriate DATA STORAGE and BACK-UP solutions selected. Suitable WORKSTATIONS and PERIPHERALS will also be chosen.

Following the design assessment, a quotation is produced, incorporating the recommended solution, possible alternatives, and costings. All solutions are bespoke, and take full account of both current needs and possible future requirements.

Basic principles cover:

• Local Area Networks (LANs), that enable network connectivity, ie data sharing, for computer Users situated within one site, which may comprise one or more buildings. The connectivity is based on Ethernet principles, and is implemented using Network Infrastructure (link). Generally, LANs are based on 'thick' client principles, whereby the processing is carried out by each Workstation, and the File Server controls access and stores all of the the data. However, LANs can also operate on 'thin' client principles, or a mixture of both.
• Wide Area Networks (WANs) enable network connectivity for computer Users to share data at different geographical locations. Depending on the nature of the requirement, the Network Infrastructure (link) may be connected via Internet Broadband or Leased-line links. Point-to-point, line-of-site links over limited distances can be achieved using Wireless; Laser, Microwave, or Fibre-optic Cable. WANs may be based on 'thin' client principles, especially where Users at a number of widespread locations are to be linked. In a Thin Client system, powerful centralized File Servers do the processing, and simple terminals enable users to communicate with the Servers for the inputting of data and display of results. WANs may also operate on 'thick' client principles, particularly where LANs have to be linked, or even a mixture of both.
• Virtual Private Network (VPN) and Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) operation enable Users at remote locations to access LAN and WAN Networks, using Broadband or GPMS. This is particularly useful for staff who need to access and process data, using Laptops and PDAs, when they are away from the office.
• Telephone services can be integrated by SES into the structure of both LANs and WANs, or cabled independently. Such facilities may include Analogue, ISDN, or Voice-over-Internet Protocol (VoIP).

Elements of Network Infrastructure that are provided by SES Computing to achieve the objectives include:

• Copper Cabling. Structured cabling suitable for Data and Telephony applications (1 Gbit or more) is implemented using Category 5e and Category 6 cables and connectors. Either shielded or unshielded components may be used, depending on environmental and security considerations. One end of each cable is terminated at an RJ45 socket on a Patch Panel, and the other end is terminated at a corresponding RJ45 Wall Socket. These sockets may be mounted in dado trunking, flush-mounted, or surface-mounted. Where possible the cables are run out of site, in voids. If this is not possible, surface-mount trunking may be used. Cabling for secure networks may be run fully using surface-mount conduit. On completion of installation, every cable link is labelled and its performance validated. SES staff have the requsite experience, components, tools and test equipment for all aspects of work on copper cables.
• Fibre-optic Cabling. Structured fibre cabling is generally used for backbone links between Switches in large networks. Fibre may also be used for external links between buildings, either underground or using an overhead catenary. It may also be used for very secure links to Workstations, or where high data transfer rates are required. Multi-core loose- or tight-buffered fibre cable is used, with appropriate ST or SC terminations to suit the equipment involved and application. On completion of installation, every cable core is labeled and its performance validated. SES staff have the requisite experience, components, tools and test equipment for all all aspects of work on fibre cables.
• Hardware. Hardware elements are selected from a range of:
1. Data Switches, taking account of requirements regarding Data Rates, Number and Type of Ports, Internal Interfaces, Management capability.
2. Telephone Switch, taking account of requirements regarding choice of analogue or digital (ISDN), number of lines in, number of handsets, and other facilities such as direct dial, voice mail, access control, public address, etc.
3. Routers and Firewalls, taking account of application, security needs, data rates, ADSL, SDSL, etc.
4. Wireless Access Points, specified and positioned to suit application.
5. 5 Wall- or floor-mount cabinet to carry all required elements of the Network Infrastructure, including the elements specified under Network Configuration, plus power hardware.

Following acceptance by the client of fixed-price bid proposals from SES Computers, our staff will commence implementation of the project, starting with procurement, manufacture and initial integration. During installation, every endeavour is made to work flexibly to minimise any possible disruption to the client's business activities, and to meet agreed timescales. All installation work is carried out by SES staff, who work to the highest professional standards, and follow appropriate regulations and guidance, thus ensuring safe working practices, and the best system functionality, whilst paying due regard to aesthetic factors.

All installations are fully tested, prior to being set-to-work. Full functionality of the system is then demonstrated to users, at which time basic training on operation of the network can be given, and questions answered. Further support for the solution of any problems is subsequently available by telephone, by site visit or by remote access. More formalised training is available, if required.