Optimal organization of the network traffic

To select the right supplier is not an easy task, and especially, when the end user demands a 99,99% service availability, wrong decisions could have serious consequences. Streamcore, for example, expects an above average performance from its suppliers because it operates in the centre of the telecommunication industry. Use of TCP/ IP- networks, the existing transfer- and routing-models clearly have to be updated with mechanisms to improve the quality of service for companies. A growing demand for new data flows in networks, which require an extensive broadband, made this more significant.

Teamwork

StreamCore needed a global solution for the cases, in which their innovative systems are assembled. On the basis of references and a good reputation, Schroff was chosen. Schroff has already developed a VME-frame, that was used for Frame Relays and X25-Switches with the company RCE for France Telecom and other distributors in several European countries. RCE, with its headquaters in Paris, is the biggest manufacturer of LAN-equipment in France.
Remi Després, Chairman and CEO, already knew about Schroff and decided to initiate an agreed co-operation. Yves Rovelli explained the decision as follows: Of course there were further strong competitors besides Schroff for this project. Remi Després was convinced of the mechanical Knowhow of the company and its capability to manufacture efficiently, and this is one of the main reasons, why we have continued our business relationship. Another important factor was the great technical knowhow. No other supplier offered a similar specialized knowledge in the areas of electronic, mechanic, backplanes and integration, combined with a global market presence. Because one of the most important targets was to build up contacts in the United States, we needed a global supplier, who could offer us specific integrated solutions, and this was undoubtedly an important factor, why Schroff was chosen.

The challenge

In telecommunication- and Internet-branch delays caused by inefficiency and avoidable mistakes are unacceptable. A high system availability and time are critical factors. To achieve their target, to make customer-networks more efficient, StreamCore have to endeavour to achieve 100% efficiency in their own organization. The special challenge for StreamCore was in creating an integrated system, which requires only a minimum of space, guarantees high availability, contains more CPU and supports HotSwap.
StreamCore will offer a high-efficiency product for a demanding market due to the partnership with Schroff. The product will be able to work with zero-failure tolerance and 24 hours per day without down time. One hundred fully-integrated systems from Schroff present a complete solution, in which active components are changeable, without turning off or restarting the system (Hot Swap).

The Procedure

At the beginning of the project StreamCore provided Schroff with construction specifications. After the technical requirements were reviewed by the desin team, a final detailed document was established for the chassis, power supplies, backplanes and climate control. Basically the aim was to develop a global product, which supports Hot Swap and has sufficient flexibility for further expansion.