Delving Deeper into Open Architecture- with Hitachi Cable

In the previous article on open architecture, we learned that the term 'open architecture' refers to the use of standards-compliant cable and connective hardware in the design of the network. Why open architecture? The first of many reasons is that open architecture benefits the user in many ways, for example: the end user has the ability to choose from more products to fit their needs and goals.  In this post, we will delve deeper into the importance of open architecture with Hitachi Cable America. 

There are different levels of quality and performance when it comes to architecture infrastructure. Hitachi Cable America believes in selecting products for infrastructure by evaluating performance, warranty and overall value that individual components of the system offer. Hitachi says "an open architecture solution offers users the freedom to choose the materials that best meet their needs..." Open architecture systems provice flexibility for the end-user, as well as some of the highest-ranking performance ratings. 

When it comes to performance, studies have indicated that approximately 50% of network problems are related to infrastructure. Third-party studies of Hitachi Cable HCM brand Category 6 Plus copper cable and connectivity show performance values greater than those established in ANSI/TIA standards. Hitachi Cable's open architecture solutions can be a better value and offer equal or better electrical performance than closed architecture solutions. 

What about closed solutions? 

Closed solutions, ones in which a specific cable and connectivity manufacturer must be used in order to obtain a warranty, are typically marketed as providing better performance than standards-based solutions... however, this is not always the case. Few companies actually make both the cable and connective hardware themselves, so a connectivity manufacturer aligns with a cable manufacturer. Most closed solutions offer a 15-25 year warranty carried by one of the companies in the solution, usually the connectivity manufacturer, and it covers the entire solution. These warranties are only available through certified installers.

Comparitively speaking, Hitachi Cable America offers a lifetime warranty through it's network of certified installers. This warranty lasts as long as the owner occupies the facility. Hitachi Cable America, however, also permits the warranty to be transferred to a new owner. Testing of the network is required, but the ability to transfer the warranty can be of great value to a company that may choose to lease out their current space. 

What about performance? 

When trying to obtain the best value for the investment, it is very important to select high quality, high performance products. Recently, Hitachi Cable America obtained third-party testing of its HCM™ brand Category 6 Plus™ copper cable (30025-8) and the Category 6 connectivity provided by six well-known manufacturers. The data indicates that when the PLUS™ cable is mated to the connectivity shown, the resulting permanent link (a circuit including cable and connectors at each end) provides performance in excess of the parameters established in the ANSI /TIA-568-C.1 standard. For example, both ACRN and PSACRN demonstrate that there is significant margin over the limits in the Category 6 standard.

To view a graph of the results, click here. 
ACRN (Attenuation-to-Crosstalk Ratio Near-end) is the relationship between a signal on a conductor and associated noise emanating from an adjacent conductor. Near-end indicates it is at the tester end of the link being tested. ACRN is calculated from attenuation and NEXT (crosstalk) measurements. PSACRN is the difference between a twisted pair’s attenuation and combined crosstalk from adjacent pairs. Both ACRN and PSACRN are key performance indicators in a permanent link. If noise overcomes a signal on a conductor, the signal will become corrupted. Higher ACRN and PSACRN vales are the most beneficial. 

Choosing an open architecture solution that includes the PLUS™ Category 6 cable from Hitachi Cable America, will provide you with a solution that will support all applications intended for Category 6. 

If you are seeking the best value for your infrastructure investment, an open architecture solution featuring cables from Hitachi Cable America will perform as well as if not better than closed solutions, along with a better warranty, and is backed by a company with over a quarter century experience making communication cables. All in all, open architecture solutions can be a better value and offer better electrical performance than closed solutions.

To learn more and compare open architecture and closed architecture solutions, view the entire study overview or contact your local Accu-Tech sales representative.