CONNECTIONS 66

Specialist magazine Reichle & De-Massari AG | April 2024

050.7408

60 Years of R&M
A Story that Connects
RSI Ticino
Multimedia Data Center
Freenet Superior
One Cabinet for Everything
Connecting the Planet
Sustainability Strategy Further Developed
Editorial

Shaping the World of

Communication –
for 60 Years
050.7409

Dear Business Partners

In 1964, it was impossible to foresee how and companies around the world. In this Infrastructures for data communication
profoundly our everyday lives would change issue’s focus article, CEO Michel Riva takes and thus Internet access are now among
as a result of digitalization and thus also the you on a journey through time that tells the the basic needs of society. However, the
world of communications and data networks story of the transformation from the «Reichle connected world is by no means a foregone
in the decades that followed. But the young connectors» to the digital era. conclusion and can only function with secure
R&M company founders and technical ex- and future-proof connectivity solutions. In
perts Hans Reichle and Renato De-Massari All-in-one solutions as a order for people and companies to be able to
already knew back then: You need reliable success factor communicate without restrictions, sophisti-
infrastructures to connect people and com- In the Gigabit age, connectivity has become cated residential and business wiring, efficient
panies, and thus improve communication. much more complex. Accordingly, R&M has data centers, stable and resilient outdoor
They founded their company in the spring evolved from a component manufacturer to networks, well-connected mobile commu-
of 1964 under the simplest conditions, a provider of complete system solutions. The nication antennas, aerial deployment and
initially to make life easier for installers with value-added chain is being systematically ex- much more are needed. We want to connect
a revolutionary telephone outlet. panded, as was recently the case at the cable people and companies responsibly with our
plant in Děčín (more on this on pages 16+17). solutions along our entire value-added chain.
Since then, R&M has developed into a Such holistic offers are in demand: A clear This attitude has been a key component of our
globally active company with an established reference example can be found on pages sustainable business activities for 60 years.
reputation in the industry. We are privileged 8+9, where you can read how Bern University
to have been able to support some clients Hospital benefits from an integrated data We are proud of 60 years of company history
since the very beginning. And at their core, center infrastructure solution including ser- and we would like to thank everyone who has
our vision and corporate values have re- vices from R&M. In addition, we once again contributed to this. Our company is ready to
mained the same. Every day, our employees report on numerous R&M innovations and face the future – we look forward to many
do their best to meet the highest standards of trends from the industry. new projects that we can carry out for our
quality, innovation, customer orientation, and valued business partners around the world.
sustainability – with the aim of breaking down
boundaries and reliably connecting people Thank you for the trust you have placed in us
and for the valuable collaboration.

I hope you enjoy reading our latest specialist

magazine.
«We provide network infrastructure
for unlimited communication.»
Martin Reichle, Co-Owner

2 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
Contents

Focus Success Corporate

4 32
60 Years of R&M Inselspital Bern, Switzerland Significant Relief:

8
A Story that Connects Data Center for the The Service Program as an Option
Digital Future of Medicine
Connecting the Planet:

14 34
RSI, Switzerland Sustainability Strategy

News Multimedia Data Center for Ticino Further Developed

23
Sistema Fecomércio Bahia, Brazil
New LAN Solution

10
29
When Wind Farms go Online Pullman Hotel Sydney
Sleeping Better in Penrith

13
SYNO S-500:
The Space Sensation

Fiber Optic Cables

for Harsh Environments 16 Trends
19
400 and 800G:

12
The Changing Network Landscape TCO:
Total Costs Under Control

20
18
SPE Overall Solution
Highspeed Wireless Networks

24
Aerial Deployment:

22
A Sustainable Option
Seamless Connectivity

26
inteliPhy net:
Architect of the Data Center

UniRack 2 optimized 28
30
Freenet Superior:
One Cabinet for Everything

Publication details: Publisher: Layout: KplusH, CHE-Amden, Markus Kuhn

Reichle & De-Massari AG, Binzstrasse 32,
CONNECTIONS 66 | April 2024 CHE-8620 Wetzikon, Switzerland
Printing: Ostschweiz Druck AG, CHE-Wittenbach
www.rdm.com Print run: 6, 000 copies
Cover picture: R&M blog portal: https://www.rdm.com/blog/
An R&M LAN solution was installed at the head- CONNECTIONS is printed twice a year and can be
quarters of Sistema Fecomércio Bahia, an important Editorial team: ordered from the publisher. Reproduction allowed
business organization in Brazil. Erica Monti (Editor-in-Chief), with permission from the editorial team.
[email protected],
Bernward Damm, Robert Merki,
Andreas Rüsseler, Ines Stotz
SC2021042104

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 3
Focus

A Story
that Connects
R&M has been on the market for 60 years – a good time to take a look at
where the company stands today. Back then, it was all about installing
telephone outlets. But the future belongs to complete network infrastructures
for the digital era.

The past six decades have been shaped by icant intermediate step on the way to today’s Many highlights demonstrate the technolog-
rapid technological change as hardly ever modern fiber optic distribution technology. ical strengths and pioneering achievements
before. When Hans Reichle and Renato of the company. R&M was involved in stan-
De-Massari founded their company in the R&M continuously helped the telecom- dardization processes early on and became
spring of 1964, the focus was on analog tele- munications industry to supply customers a leading manufacturer of RJ45 connectivity
phone outlets with a few copper wires. They faster and with more connections, and new for structured cabling and computer net-
made life easier for installers with a modular, epochs in the world of communication were
two-pin terminal clamp and developed the constantly emerging.
first connectors with insulation displacement
contacting. The solutions quickly established Revolutions from IT to AI
themselves and R&M became the leader in Computers, the Internet, and cell phones
its home market of Switzerland. To this day, spread rapidly, and each revolutionized
many installers and fitters still talk about communication methods – accompanied by
«Reichle connectors». digitalization and, today, by artificial intelli-
gence (AI). These changes were and are only
The market launch of the VS Modular distri- possible thanks to ever more, ever faster and
bution system a few years later was a further ever better network connections.
decisive step. With the solderless connection
module strip system, R&M set standards for Over time, R&M developed into a globally
the rapid setup and expansion of high-density active company with innovations for plug
telephone distribution centers in Switzerland connections and communications networks – 050.5863

and abroad. This new technology was a signif- all supported by a sustainable business model. The R&M company founders Hans Reichle
and Renato De-Massari

4 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
«We provide network infrastructure for unlimited communication.»

works. The company made its international

breakthrough in the 1980s as a supplier of
the IBM/ACS cabling system. The RJ range
was completed over decades and is still suc-
cessfully marketed around the world today.

Ingenious quick mounting

With the RJ45 module, which can be wired
tool-free, R&M also positioned itself as a
pioneer in installation-friendly connectivity
technology. From then on, two steps were Technological successes have continued
sufficient to contact eight wires concurrently seamlessly to this day: Over time, a multi-
in IDC insulation displacement. At the time, tude of modular distributor and high-density
this was a great relief for installers and a leap solutions for FTTx fiber optic networks, the
forward for LAN cabling. first commercially available Cat. 8.1 and
Single Pair Ethernet systems for the LAN
As early as 1987, R&M started working market and also the HEC optical connector
with innovative fiber optic technology and for weatherproof outdoor applications were
developed a fiber optic cable termination for made ready for series production. In R&M,
050.5869
the telecommunications market. Making the customers will always find a supplier who
use of fiber optics more reliable has always offers sophisticated connectivity for the next RJ45 connection module (3rd decade)
been a priority. Ethernet generation.

At the end of the fourth decade, this The ability to industrialize is another strength What’s on in the anniversary year
was followed by the Mini-MPO, the first of R&M. It all started with the series produc-
LAN
field-mountable fiber optic connector. tion of copper terminal strips. 1988 saw the – Network cabinets will expand the LAN
Shortly before the turn of the millennium, commissioning of the first fully automatic portfolio
R&M achieved a breakthrough in the market production plant for the manufacture of – RJ45 module family to be further
for fiber optic connectors with the innovative outlet inserts. At the turn of the millennium, harmonized
E-2000 connectors manufactured under R&M was the first manufacturer to produce – Single Pair Ethernet to be established
license. R&M built a fiber optic ecosystem and fully test RJ45 connection modules globally
around these connector types over 25 years. of the Cat. 5 and Cat. 6 generations fully Data Centers
Many assembly companies still purchase the automatically. This was later followed by the – Upgrade of the Netscale platform for VSFF
E-2000™ from R&M. innovative and powerful Cat 6A ISO module. connectors
– inteliPhy net integrates cabinet planning
– Expansion of the «Integrated Infrastructure»
approach with Freenet and BladeShelter
racks from Tecnosteel and racks from Du-
rack for the markets Europe, META
and APAC

Public Networks
– Expanded global cultivation of the FTTx
market
– R&M to become an established partner for
wireless roll-outs
– Entry into the OEM business with 5G
equipment suppliers
– Aerial solutions with innovative plug
connectors
010.3262 010.3244
– Cabling solutions for the renewable
Analog telephone outlet (1 decade)
st
System integration in R&M VS distributors energies industry to be expanded
(2nd decade)

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 5
Focus

From components to solutions radically modernized and brought up to the

The components business and innovative latest state of the art.
individual products shaped the first four
decades of R&M history. The focus at the R&M also continuously built up the in-
time was on copper connectivity for the ternational sales regions. Early on, R&M
telecom and LAN market segments. Since followed the concept of local, customer-ori-
the beginning of the fifth decade, R&M has ented centers of excellence with their own
increasingly positioned itself as a global and engineering departments. The promising
future-oriented solution provider for the gi- Data Center market segment really gained
gabit era. Over the past ten years, all products momentum in 2015. With the newly devel-
041.0729
have also been put to the test, in some cases oped Netscale cabling system, R&M met the

demand for network infrastructures driven by

60 years of R&M: the most important success factors growing data traffic. Its development focused
on systems for high-speed data transmission
Expertise: The R&M employees Investments: R&M invests in office buildings, data centers and for
have continuously developed their continuously and extensively in exhaustive fiber optic broadband supply.
expertise and understanding of the further development of the
customers’ infrastructure needs company, the further training A challenge in the Data Center sector:
and applications. With their skills, of employees and in new
Networks are becoming more complex.
they are proficient in network-rele- technologies and portfolios for
They need to support more applications and
vant topics. This enables R&M to the three target markets. The
be a global provider of state-of- know-how is pooled in compe-
enable faster migrations to future Ethernet
the-art solutions. tence centers. generations. More complex installations re-
quire smarter network management, together
with extensive documentation, so R&M
Engineering: Application-specific Supply chain: The global ap-
and custom-made or local adapta- proach is being systematically
began to develop solutions for infrastructure
tions of the products and solutions expanded in terms of sales re- management. For example, the range for data
can be implemented quickly in the gions, manufacturing capacities center operators has been expanded with the
decentralized R&M organization. and logistics. The international innovative inteliPhy system.
Complementary products are manufacturing facilities, supply
integrated on demand. In all strate- chain networks and logistics Global supply chain
gic segments, R&M can implement hubs form a strong, well-es- From the beginning of the fifth decade,
holistic solutions for the construc- tablished network and promote R&M also used acquisitions to build up a
tion of network infrastructures. independence and customer global production network which today has
focus.
a number of international sites. Its own wire
Customer orientation: A cross- manufacturer in the Czech Republic and rack
generation success factor. Digitalization: Customers production in Italy and China make R&M a
Technically savvy R&M teams are benefit from the online shop, full-range supplier with extended vertical
at home in all sales regions. An BIM models, Measurement
integration. Today, the largest production
understanding of local systems Data on Demand services
sites are located in Sofia, Bulgaria, and India.
coupled with local engineering, and DCIM software. Internal
custom-made solutions, pre- processes are mapped using
Holistic, competitive offers can be placed and
termination, training, and delivery state-of-the-art digital tools. delivered on all continents.
capability underpin customer
confidence. Sustainability: Corporate Future: Infrastructures
responsibility for people, the The momentum of the digital era is generat-
environment, climate, re- ing additional needs. New approaches and a
sources, quality, ethics and the heightened understanding of the design of
supply chain is anchored in the network and non-compute infrastructures as
sustainability strategy of the well as the ability to integrate complementary
independent family business.
solutions are now more in demand than
Dedicated, globally applicable
ever before. The days in which the focus
targets define the way forward.
was on the performance and features of
innovative individual products are definitely
over. Providers must be able to comprehend
and serve the complex requirements in the

6 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
 030.8667 050.7410

All-in-one solutions for network infrastructures: «We are driven by the creation of infrastructure solutions that bring sustainable added value
and enable unlimited communication.»

infrastructure environment in a holistic way In all three strategic market segments, the tion platforms, network technology, racks
that goes beyond connectivity. And they focus continues to shift to the systems and enclosures manufactured in-house. The
need advanced system expertise, because business. Focal points include: latest technologies and products, such as
customers want effective support when – FTTx for broadband, 5G and WiFi expan- those for high density, power distribution,
planning, setting up and expanding their sion, and for smart cities sensors, airflow and cooling, are integrated
systems and networks. – Extended LAN and All IP solutions for smart in the racks. Strategic partnerships integrate
buildings complementary technologies and infra-
Consequently, R&M planned its strategic – «Integrated data center infrastructure structure components.
step towards becoming a provider of holistic solutions» for the complete equipment of
infrastructure solutions at an early stage. computer rooms. R&M has cabling, distribu- The R&M Group intends to use this business
model to develop further over the next
decade. The driving force is the vision of
«unlimited communication», which is based
Up-to-date
on holistic solutions for connectivity and
To mark its 60th anniversary, R&M has portfolio to complete the range for data network infrastructures. Networks should
brought its products and solutions up to centers, especially green data centers
be available globally so that people and
date to correspond with state-of-the-art – Onboarding of miscellaneous interna-
companies can connect at all times without
technology and market requirements. Some tional partners to complete infrastructu-
highlights: re solutions for data centers
limits and interruption.

LAN Public Networks Sixty years of R&M: Our valued business part-
– Cat. 6A EL module and quick installation – New PRIME ODF for main distributors ners are part of this success story. We owe a
solution for LAN cabling, increasingly with high density of fiber optic connec- big thank you to them and to our employees
replacing the existing Cat. 5e/Cat. 6 tivity in particular. R&M has made a solid start to
generation – Fiber optic connectivity: LC with Push- the anniversary year and is working on the
– Standardization of RJ45 platforms Pull plug-in mechanism enables higher stories of tomorrow.
– Cabling systems for Single Pair Ethernet packing density in the patch panel
(SPE) and Cat. 8.1 – Expansion of outside plant cabling
– New generation of field-mountable FM45 systems for fast FTTx, aerial deployment
connectors, now with PushPull mechanism and underground cabling: SYNO dome
closures with gel cold sealing, ZOONA
Data Centers splice closures with mechanical seal
– Development and expansion of the – Polaris, new generation of wall boxes for
innovative fiber optic Netscale distribution customer premises
platform with varying characteristics and – HEC, the outdoor connector family for
densities above-ground network expansion and
– Intelligent port detection with sensor bars 5G applications
for infrastructure management – Modular system for Fiber to the Anten-
– Development of its own multifunctional na for the 5G/mobile market
DCIM software for the documentation – Manufacture of high-end fiber optic
and monitoring of complex network cables, construction of customer-
infrastructures specific cable types
– Revision and expansion of the popular 050.7214
Varioline fiber optic cable system family Michel Riva | CEO
– Integration of the BladeShelter cabinet [email protected]

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 7
Success

050.7411

Data Center for The integrated R&M solution

the Digital Future

for the hospital data center
– HD copper and FO patch panels
– Ready-to-connect singlemode MPO cabling
– Pre-terminated copper cabling using thin-

of Medicine
compact trunk cables
– 88 ready-to-install, assembled 19" server racks
in 48U design
– Two intelligent connector strips (PDUs) per
rack with C14/C20 combination sockets, incl.
Medicine is becoming increasingly digital. Bern University network interface
– Rack locking systems with RFID authentication
Hospital is integrating this trend into everyday clinical – Six cold aisles with electric sliding doors
practice in a holistic way. The «digital heart» is beating in the (Wirecenter and five cubes)
– Raceway cable guides
data center of the new main building. Its infrastructure was – Modular overhead conductor rail solution

also developed using a holistic approach.

In its 670-year history, Bern University Hos- AI in medicine
pital has often implemented groundbreaking The Anna Seiler building is fully geared toward
infrastructure plans, as is the case with the state-of-the-art patient care and is com-
Anna Seiler building. The new main building pletely digitized for this purpose. The clinic
was opened in September 2023 after six information system plays a central role. It has
years of construction. It is part of a long-term to manage the data and diagnostic findings
050.7412
transformation and infrastructure program of several thousand people per day. Around
of Insel Gruppe AG. The Group wants to
continue to guarantee high-quality services in
medicine, teaching and research in the future.
«That was a very courageous path we took.
And digitalization is a key factor. But we saw great potential right from the start.»
Reto Vital, Head of Real Estate and Operations at Insel Gruppe,
on the integral application of Building Information Modeling (BIM)

8 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
«As a project manager, we can optimally coordinate the various trades
thanks to the fully equipped, ready-to-use racks.»
Peter Hofer and André Nyfeler, electrical planners at Bering AG

every patient bed there are interfaces to the

communications, clinic and data network. Bern University Hospital
As a university hospital, the Inselspital plays At the heart of Insel Gruppe AG’s infrastructure
Analysis devices, life-sustaining machines and
an important role in the Swiss healthcare development is the Anna Seiler building, which
surgical robots now only work in a network.
system. It is a center of medical expertise, opened in September 2023. It is named after the
high-tech and knowledge with a good founder of the hospital.
In March 2024, the Insel Group introduced reputation internationally. As owner and
a new clinic information and control system The new building cost CHF 670 million and has
operator, the Inselspital Foundation dates
that sets new standards and decisively ad- 18 floors, 2,243 rooms, 11 clinics and institutes,
back to its founding in 1354.
and 532 patient beds. Around 1,200 patients are
vances digital medicine. Epic’s fully integrated
The University Hospital clinics offer highly attended to and supported every day.
all-in-one solution has replaced some fifty
specialized tertiary medical services,
systems and connects the entire Insel Group
including transplantation medicine, with a
across disciplines and professions. pronounced interdisciplinarity. Each year,
they attend to around 59,000 inpatients and
Digitized construction 920,000 outpatients. With around 11,000
The heart of digital hospital operations is a employees, the University Hospital is one of
data center in the basement of the new build- the largest employers in the region.
ing. Insel Gruppe AG and the general planner
had looked for an overall, easily integrable,
all-in-one solution in the data center. Together with the electrical planning engineer
Bering AG, R&M was able to incorporate
Like other modules, it had to be possible to specific knowledge from numerous previous
integrate the data center into the design at data center projects into the design phase.
the click of a mouse, as the construction proj- The R&M service team designed and coordi-
ect was primarily developed and controlled nated the complex project with a wealth of 050.7413

digitally. experience and know-how. The Anna Seiler building at Bern University Hospital
is completely geared toward the digital world.
R&M approach convincing
The approach of the integrated data center
solution from R&M was convincing thanks
to the technically sophisticated documenta-
tion down to the last detail. The all-in-one
solution from R&M includes a raised floor
construction, defined pre-assembled server
racks, intelligent connector strips (PDUs),
six cold aisle enclosures, busbars, specified
FO and copper cabling including raceway
channel and top-of-rack cabling.

As an all-in-one solution provider, R&M took 050.7414 050.7415 050.7416

care of the services from rack assembly, deliv-
As an all-in-one solution provider, R&M took care of the services from rack assembly, delivery,
ery, coordination, construction, laying cables coordination, construction, laying cables and labeling to measuring and documenting the network
and labeling to measuring and documenting infrastructure to guarantee the system warranty.
the network infrastructure to guarantee the
system warranty.

Partner
– Specialist electrical planning: Bering AG
Bern
– Installation: ARGE Elektro Inselspital
BB12, Scherler AG Elektro Bern, Elektro
Burkhalter AG Bern, Gasser + Bertschy 050.7417 050.7134

Elektro AG Bern Lars Toppler | R&M Switzerland Jürg Gerber | R&M Switzerland
– Archipel Generalplanung AG in Bern [email protected] [email protected]

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 9
News

When Wind Farms

Go Online
050.7376

Wind farms are digitizing their operations. Internationally, an Internet of the

renewable energy industry is emerging. Data communication in this network
must be available without interruption. R&M is meeting the demand with a
special cabling and service program.
The switch to renewable energy sources has centers. These are typically large onshore quality or data transmission failures, unexpect-
driven decentralized energy generation for- and offshore installations that can only be ed repairs and subsequent adjustments to the
ward. Concurrently, the weather influences controlled remotely. This is why the data net- network infrastructure should be avoided as
the output of wind turbines and solar plants work cabling has to be suitable for the long far as possible. Such risks would place too
and their feed-in to the power grids. distances and harsh operating conditions on great a burden on efficiency and total cost
the ground and at sea. of ownership.
This results in a growing demand for coordi-
nation between energy production, network Data traffic requires an infrastructure that R&M understands these needs and provides
operators, electricity exchanges, municipal can withstand the environmental conditions the renewable energies market with a com-
utilities and consumers. Operators are al- in the wind farms. It must also meet special plete range of cabling solutions. The focus is
ready using 5G radio, virtualization and operational and business requirements. on all-purpose, pre-terminated platforms and
artificial intelligence to manage wind farms robust plug-and-play solutions. This reduces
efficiently. They are digitizing their operations. Avoiding risks the material required and the installation
The network cabling must also be as cost-ef- process. Even in harsh weather conditions,
They need fast data connections for the wide ficient, installation-friendly, maintenance-free the cabling systems can be installed by a
range of applications. These range from sen- and durable as possible. Operators plan with team of technicians who do not need to be
sors, antennas and controllers in the power an operational life of more than 20 years. specially trained.
plant nacelles to operation centers and data Time-consuming installation work, declining

10 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
 Technological know-how coordinated pre-termination, improvements sioning of the cabling infrastructure as well
R&M has technological experience in the and delayed network commissioning can be as long-term warranties. Local, technically
development, production and customizing avoided. trained points of contact support wind farm
of cabling products for harsh environments projects from the very beginning.
– whether for industry, telecommunica- The units arrive at the construction site on
tions, broadband supply or ships. The DNV schedule and can be installed quickly. R&M
certification demonstrates that the R&M also offers measurements prior to commis-
cabling products are permanently resistant
to moisture, salt air and vibrations at sea.

Data network cabling for smart wind farms

One focus is the portfolio for Fiber to the
Antenna (FFTA) and Aerial Cabling, which has R&M offers complete infrastructure Cabling for backbone and access to wide
to permanently withstand extreme environ- solutions for data networks in wind farms. area networks (WAN):
mental conditions. Now R&M is also focusing The range includes copper and fiber optic – Waterproof outdoor connectors for fiber
cabling, connectivity, assemblies, distribu- optic cables
on the requirements of wind farms.
tors and casings. The portfolio is suitable – Distribution closures for above-ground
for control cabling in the nacelle (1), the and underground cables
Ready-to-install delivery uplink from the backbone to the nacelle (2 – Underground WAN cable software for
The service package is also impressive. R&M and 3), the outdoor networking of the wind remote management of data network
offers to pre-assemble cabinets, boxes, dis- farm (4), and the connection to the control infrastructures
tributors and assemblies on a project-specific center as well as its office and data center
Software for the remote management of
basis. The R&M plants around the world cabling (5). The solutions include, but are
data network infrastructures.
provide pre-terminated, tested and ready-to- not limited to:
install cabling solutions. Thanks to precisely 1
Cabling in the nacelle:
Nacelle
– Top-hat rail adapters and connection distribution
boxes for all types of connectors
– Low-shrink, resistant patch cords
– Secure connectivity

Cabling for the base: 5

– Shatterproof, temperature-stable 3 Energy
Uplink management
distribution and patch boxes
– Protection class up to IP68
– Vibration-proof outdoor
connectors resistant to UV, 2
salt water and oil Backbone
– Ready-to-install harness and distributor
4 050.7451
trunk cables
– DNV-certified cables for offshore use
030.8319

Graphic: R&M

050.7311 050.7268
050.7310
Hermann Christen Angelo Auer
Intuitive to use and built for harsh conditions: Market Development Manager Product Manager
HEC connectors from R&M for connecting copper [email protected] [email protected]
and fiber optic cables outdoors.

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 11
 Trends

Total Costs
Under Control
The long-term view of an investment is gaining new importance
with the trend towards gaining power from renewable sources.
It can contribute to the success of many undertakings.
A suitable tool is the TCO model.
050.7418

Some industries, such as the capital-intensive «Low assembly and operating expenses and
wind power industry, sell their products
through contracts with a propagation time of
failure safety compensate for any additional costs
20 to 25 years. In the area of conflict between for more robust materials. The ratio is 2:1 or better,
high investment and fixed costs on the one
hand and profitable margins on the other, it
according to R&M’s experience.»
is important to minimize cost risks in the long
term. Direct and indirect, known and hidden insignificant items such as data network Investment planning should consider a num-
cost drivers should be identified before cabling are to be discussed. If a data connec- ber of other factors that may have a lasting
making a decision on a particular investment. tion fails due to inadequate cabling, a system impact on the TCO, such as:
may no longer be able to be monitored and – Plug-and-play solutions and custom-
In this context, it helps to analyze the total controlled. The price of a resilient outdoor made, pre-terminated modules shorten and
cost of ownership (TCO) reliably, in detail connector is insignificant in comparison to simplify installation processes
and over the life cycle. Even small, seemingly the consequential costs of downtime or loss – If the components are easy to handle, the
of control. risk of failure of an installed component is
reduced
Overview TCO Maintenance and servicing of wind turbines – High-end, pre-tested components result
typically accounts for around 25% of overall in fewer failures. Components made of a
100 %
costs and thus generates a significant propor- durable, shatterproof material may never
90 % Maintenance tion of total costs over the lifetime of an in- need to be replaced
vestment. They are an important component – Corrosion-free, vibration-proof, temperature-
80 %
of cost-benefit analysis. Maintenance-free stable connectivity enables
70 % or low-maintenance components therefore permanently stable data

60 %
Installation save a lot of money, even if they may seem transmission
expensive at first.
50 %
Above and beyond the scheduled mainte-
40 % nance work, malfunctions and breakdowns
reduce the profit on an investment. Unplan-
30 %
Material ned repairs are costly. Downtimes cannot
20 % be remedied immediately due to the long
distances to the extensive wind farms. How-
10 %
ever, the probability of aging and breakdowns
050.7454 Graphic: R&M 050.7311
increases due to the long lifespan and the
TCO encompasses material, installation and Hermann Christen
demands caused by operation and weather-
maintenance over the life cycle of a plant. It may Market Development Manager
be worthwhile to look at TCO comprehensively. ing. In other words, the robustness of the
[email protected]
Graphic: R&M components is a decisive factor.

12 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
News
Space Sensation

Fiber optic networks must be able to be

expanded efficiently and on a modular basis.
With its SYNO dome closures, R&M supports all
splice applications, topologies and most cable types.
The latest splice closure enables even more capacity,
space saving and modularity, and can combine
ribbons, single splices as well as splitters.
030.8609

«Tailor-made planning from the first mile to the last

is simple thanks to the end-to-end range.»
The exponential growth its customers all-in-one solutions and the In addition, the splice closure is also modularly
of data traffic caused by corresponding advice. Modularly extendible expandable. Up to eight splice trays with up
streaming, cloud services, systems, realized, for example, by the use of to three splice holders can be installed. You
5G, IoT and other digital high-fiber ribbon cables, are decisive. Suitable can choose between ribbon, single splice or
applications requires ev- components, such as the modular optical splitter holders. This is crucial if requirements
er-increasing bandwidths distribution system Prime ODF and the fiber change over time or the network grows. Fiber
and improved trans- optic splice closure families, are part of the management is also clever: Ribbons, loose
mission performance, range. Thanks to the end-to-end product tubes and splitters can be spliced in the same
but also greater space range, tailor-made planning from the first mile ST-500 splice tray. Up to three independent
and resource efficiency. to the last is simple. STH-500 splice holders can be inserted into
High-density, efficient the splice tray.
and scalable fiber optic More fibers in the smallest of spaces
distribution systems One of the pillars of the R&M Outside Plant
have become indis- solutions is the SYNO dome closure family
pensable. R&M offers with its robust sealing systems and modular,
easy-to-use cable entry bays. The new SYNO
S-500 splice closure completes the range.
With this product, fiber optic networks can
Standards be dimensioned perfectly at every level. It
The SYNO S-500 is certified in accordance
sets capacity standards by enabling 3,456
with IEC 61300 / IEC 61753-111-9 and
splices in a 250 x 700 mm installation space
Telcordia GR-771-CORE – thus meeting
the stringent requirements and quality
using ribbon splicing technology. The efficient
standards for telecommunications equip- design also makes it a space-saving device,
050.7267
ment to ensure reliability and performance which is a major advantage– particularly in
Stephan Näpfer | Product Manager
in the networks. space-constrained environments such as
[email protected]
sleeve ducts.

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 13
Success
Multimedia Data Center
for Ticino

Visualization of RSI’s Comano Campus as it will look after its extension. 050.7419

Radiotelevisione Svizzera (RSI) is planning to consolidate all of its Italian-language

television, radio and multimedia activities at a single site in Comano near Lugano. One
core project is the construction of a media data center. Connectivity and distributors from
R&M simplify network management in data centers.
The rapid changes in the era of digitalization In addition, huge amounts of multimedia data Largest data center
are posing a major challenge for public are created over time, requiring both storage This is why RSI wants to merge and optimize
radio and television companies. Multimedia, and administration. As a public service the digital media world with its various
Internet, podcasts and live streaming com- broadcaster, RSI bears a great responsibility platforms at its Comano premises. A media
plement traditional studio production. There for regional cultural assets, which must be data center (MDC) was set up and put into
is a convergence of television, radio and the digitally archived in terms of sound and image. operation for this purpose.
Internet. It goes without saying that today’s
media consumers expect to be able to receive
everything on their mobile phone, tablet,
laptop or smart TV concurrently and use it all
as interactively as possible.

Digitalization of the media

As a result, media professionals are increasingly
operating in a fully digitized environment. For
them, it is important to be able to incorporate
data, graphics and high-resolution digital
image and video material into posts with just
a few clicks. Modern digital platforms require
significant processing power, and reporting
050.7420
via live stream requires new mobile solutions
and fast data transmission. RSI’s new media data center

14 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
 «We are very satisfied with the cabling solution
for our media data center.»
Luca Mammoletti, Head of Power Supply and Telecommunications,
Radiotelevisione Svizzera Italiana (RSI)

When planning the data center, RSI defined

a series of overarching criteria for the tech- Radiotelevisione Svizzera Italiana (RSI)
Radiotelevisione Svizzera Italiana (RSI) is a For the region, RSI plays a role not only as a
nology and infrastructure. Everything had
division of the Swiss public media broadcas- multimedia news medium, entertainment pro-
to be practical, space-saving and durable,
ter SRG SSR. Its task is to produce Italian- vider, responsible cultural carrier and employer,
according to Stefano Pagani, CTO RSI, and
language programs and make them available but also as a media archive. There are already
Luca Mammoletti, Head of Power Supply and to the Swiss population. RSI uses Internet more than 500,000 hours of video and audio
Telecommunications. streaming, podcasting and Digital Audio documents, a million articles and 250,000
Broadcasting (DAB) for this purpose. photographs in the archives. With around
Together with a distributor, R&M had the 1,000 full-time positions, RSI is the second-
The Comano site will be converted into a
opportunity to present its portfolio for copper largest employer in the canton after the can-
media campus and renovated in order to
and fiber optic networks. RSI had set aside tonal administration.
concentrate activities in one place, increase
enough time for evaluation and planning. As the efficiency of broadcasting, and streng-
a result, R&M was able to clarify a number then the media presence of public service
of technical details at an early stage and in Italian.
put together a suitable configuration. R&M
provided distribution products for testing so
that those responsible at RSI could find out
which solution best suited their needs. R&M also fulfilled the criterion of long prod-
uct service life. They are generally configured
Criteria met for use over several network generations.
The RSI team paid particular attention to Together with the certified installer, R&M
handling during patching. They confirmed the offered a 25-year system warranty and
smooth and convenient operation of the R&M after-sales services. The data center project
platforms for copper and fiber optic cabling. started out from this basis in April 2022. The
installation of the network infrastructure was
The team also rated the optical distribution completed on schedule.
frame ODF PRIME positively. PRIME enables
an above-average density of ports and cabling Luca Mammoletti concludes: «We are very
050.7425
so that the space available in the data center satisfied with the cabling solution for our
can be used optimally. media data center.» The RSI team and the f.l.t.r.: Claudio Ciccone, R&M Switzerland;
Flavio Gioia, P&T Services Manager, RSI;
Luca Mammoletti, Head of P&T, RSI
The R&M solution for RSI installer also gave valuable feedback from the
The solution from R&M for the RSI field. At R&M, this feedback is incorporated
media data center in Comano:
directly into the further development and
Fiber optics:
optimization of patch panels.
– PRIME ODF 19", 235 pcs.
– Patch panels: UniRack 24 port, 167 pcs.
– Connectivity: Further projects are being planned. R&M
050.7421 – Singlemode cable OS2 with LC duplex APC will equip other RSI buildings and the offices
– Panel with E-2000™ APC above the media data center with network
Copper: infrastructures.
– Connectivity: Cat. 6A EL, 3,000 pcs.
– Cable; Cat. 7A 1,300 MHz, 160 km

Special 19" rack for data transmission from

mobile studio to data center
050.7422

050.7426

Claudio Ciccone | R&M Switzerland

050.7423 050.7424
[email protected]

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 15
News

030.8692

Fiber Optic Cables

for Harsh Environments
In recent years, R&M has invested a lot in completing and increasing the capacity
of its fiber optic cable production. Combined with know-how and flexibility, this is how
sophisticated cable constructions are implemented.
Since R&M began manufacturing its own production, but also expanded the possibili-
fiber optic cables in 2018, much has been ties of the plastic materials to be processed.
done to increase both production capacities Based on this, cable constructions are now
and flexibility. The first major investment was being developed and manufactured, which
the purchase of a complete buffer line. It is are characterized by their resilience and
the starting point for the manufacture of all are thus used in mobile applications, such
types of patch cords as well as the production as broadcasting, in the military or in other
of solid and compact fibers. To increase the industrial areas.
capacity of the plant, a compensator was add-
ed that allows drums to be changed without New materials and designs
having to stop production completely. The latest boost in innovation is based on
recent investments in the cable plant, which,
The renovation of the oldest sheathing on the one hand, support the production of
system resulted in a further increase in ca- high-end loose tubes for demanding applica-
050.7402
pacity: This not only increased the speed of tions and, on the other, enable new material

16 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
 and cable constructions. For example, the
range of gel free loose tube cables, which
are crosswise and longitudinally watertight
and can therefore be used for all purposes, is
now completed. In addition, these cable con-
structions have a Cca CPR classification as a
minimum. As a further example, longitudinal
stripes can be extruded into the casing for
color coding. For instance, longitudinal stripes
050.7310
in orange are a standard requirement in Swit-
zerland and identify a fiber optic cable for
use outdoors. Thanks to a range of different
The offer is growing: Three cable variants colors for the longitudinal stripes and sheath
R&M is currently launching three new Rugged TWIN fiber MiniBreakout cables: materials, the cables can be manufactured
cable constructions that are character- In the case of robust cables, two fibers are to satisfy customer and application-specific
ized by their resilience and are used in routed in one cable. This means that two requirements.
mobile applications such as broadcasting, 600μm buffered fibers are securely em-
the military or in other industrial areas. bedded in aramid yarn and packaged in the
PUR sheath. This cable construction is also
Rugged MiniCore multifiber cables:
designed for direct connector assembly
They are suitable for direct MPO connec-
on the HEC-QR, or HEC-BR, each for LC
tor assembly or, by means of a distri-
Duplex use.
bution element, for the termination of
individual connectors, suitable for R&M Rugged Breakout 2f/4f cables:
HEC connectivity. These cables are available as 1.7 mm
twin or quad cord. They are also suitable
for direct connector mounting on the
SC connector insert from the HEC Connec-
tivity series.

030.8821

030.8215A R&M continuously invests in the completion and

capacity increase of fiber optic cable production.

Orange-striped cable for the Swiss market

030.8214A

050.6544
050.7206
030.8851
Ideal for outdoor connectivity: Lars Züllig | Product Manager
Cable for the HEC connectors from R&M.
[email protected]

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 17
 Trends
Highspeed
Wireless Networks
New technologies, such as WiFi7 or 5G, are increasing the transmission rate
in local wireless networks. Theoretically, 9.6 Gbit/s can be achieved with WiFi 6,
while with WiFi 7 it is already possible to achieve up to 30 Gbit/s. But how
can the access points be connected to local data networks?
The new wireless access point generations
are exceeding the transmission capacities of
Copper
conventional structured and copper-based LAN cable
LAN cabling. The most attractive solution is
therefore to connect the terminal equipment FO
Hybrid 2x FO / 2x AWG 18
installation
via fiber optics. Ideally, the terminals should cable installation cable with connection
technology (FO Field / RJ45 Power)
also be operated concurrently with power
via the data network (PoE). However, optical
fibers cannot transmit electricity. Service
outlet
Patch
cords
5G antenna
The next logical step is hybrid cabling. A pow-
er cable is routed parallel to the fiber optic Patch
cords
cabling. Some end device manufacturers are
opting for this solution and are propagating Hybrid
hybrid point-to-point cabling. But there are Copper connection
FO / power
cable
a few pitfalls: If the hybrid patch cords are for power

drawn in in a pre-assembled state, loss rates Fiber connection

for data 050.7460
of up to 20% may result during installation. If
a connector is later damaged during patching, Digital ceiling solution up to 90 m permanent link
all the cabling installed must be replaced.
Service
– The network devices are connected with outlet
Patch
Solution with digital ceiling simple patch cords (1x FO and 1x power) cords
The classic concept of structured LAN cabling on both sides of a permanent link. 5G antenna
Patch
as a digital ceiling – zone cabling infrastruc- – The FO and power cabling is connected to cords
separate ports in the floor distributor as well
as in the service outlet of the digital ceiling
Copper
infrastructure. connection
Fiber
connection – FO cabling follows the tried-and-tested for power
for data
digital ceiling approach: Existing cabling Fiber
connection
infrastructures with service outlets and for data 050.7463
5G antenna zone distributors only have to be expanded
Digital ceiling solution up to 200 m permanent
by the corresponding number of FO ports. link
Hybrid – The remote powering of the terminal
FO / power
patch cord
equipment is typically also supplied via
RJ45 connections, as with PoE. For this
Copper purpose, the existing LAN cabling can
connection 050.7457
for power be used for distances of up to 90 m; for
longer transmission distances of up to 200
Point-to-point solution with significant
m, thicker conductors (e.g. AWG 16) must
drawbacks in use
be used which are laid parallel to the FO
ture in the ceiling – offers a much more cables.
practical solution. The solution proposed by
R&M combines all the advantages of hybrid Products for the cabling of next-generation
050.7067
approaches: wireless network devices, such as hybrid FO/
Matthias Gerber
power installation cables and hybrid-compat-
Market Manager LAN Cabling
ible service outlets, are already available at
[email protected]
R&M.

18 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
News

The Changing
Network Landscape
The dawn of a new era of optical communication technology: In times
when data transmission requirements are constantly increasing, R&M is
now also offering installation support for the transceiver generation with
400G and 800G transmission rates.
030.8804

Development and switching to higher data Architecture of speed duplex fiber LC, SN, MDC and CS connections
transmission rates of even more than 1600G In connection with the transceivers, these offer numerous possibilities for adapting and
in the future is the logical consequence of the platforms enable the transmission of large distributing the additional network capacity.
demands arising in an increasingly digitized amounts of data between servers, switches
world. This is not only about extending band- and storage systems in data centers. Cable A comprehensive consultation with regard
width, but also about improving performance assemblies offer high-speed connectivity be- to the specifications is recommended when
and optimizing costs per bit transmitted. New tween various devices, racks and distributors. implementing 400G or 800G applications,
technologies and technological improvements The 400G and 800G transceivers rely on 50 as there will be a change in the distribution
play a key role. With fiber optic distribution and 100 Gbit/s per line respectively. This structure from Base12 to Base8.
platforms, R&M is supporting with Netscale 72 allows connections of 200G, 400G or 800G
and Netscale 48 with the formats SN, MDC to be established.
and CS. Furthermore, the company offers
all-in-one solutions from a single source and The evolution of switches is focused on
customer-specific programs. providing more line cards for higher speeds.
This is achieved with a concurrent reduction
in network costs and performance. The inte-
gration of octal modules plays a critical role
as they allow for additional links that create
space for up to 32 ports in 1U switches.

Lane breakout from the optical module is

used in order to maintain the higher radix,
i.e. a greater number of concurrent data
paths, within an optical module and to make
effective use of more ports. This makes it
possible to take full advantage of the diversity
050.7094
of connection options. The miscellaneous
Beat Koch | Product Manager
connection types such as parallel 8, 12, 16
030.8801
[email protected]
and 24-fiber multi-push-on (MPO) as well as

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 19
News

SPE is now a recognized future technology. It

can be used universally as it works with the
Ethernet protocol and overcomes the limits
of conventional structured cabling. The open
approach is further underlined by the fact
that the SPE connectors are included in the
standards framework for premises wiring. The
SPE standard IEC 63171-1 is to be included
in amendments to ISO/IEC 11801-1. In other
words, there is nothing standing in the way of
widespread utilization.

With the overall solution from R&M, SPE

can now be used in everyday building au-

New Dimension
tomation. To this end, R&M is cooperating
with an innovative company from the Single
Pair Ethernet System Alliance. The company
Zemfyre offers SPE switches, SPE-RJ45 media

for Premises Networks converters and even an industry-compatible

SPE camera. Their connectivity is based on
the IEC 63171-1 cabling produced by R&M.
The global innovation will be commercially
Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) extends the standard range available in the second quarter.

of the LAN from one hundred to several hundred The focus of the SPE overall solution is on ex-
meters – a completely new dimension for premises tensive network applications with a completely
new range. The SPE extended LAN system
networks. This new dimension can be implemented from R&M and Zemfyre can transmit data at
with the first SPE overall solution from R&M. 10 Mbit/s over distances of up to 600 meters.
It is based on an AWG-22 cable. A power
030.8205
supply should be available at the far end.

030.8663 030.8743 030.8745

SPE Switch in 19'' panel Legacy PoE camera with SPE Media Converter IP camera with SPE connection

20 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
 «In building automation, the combination of LAN, SPE and Ethernet/IP is long-term,
application-neutral, cost-effective, and energy-saving.»

Power SPE no SPoE

control SPE switch
SPE switch device

63171-1 SPE
terminal 63171-1 device
SPE terminal
63171-1 device
terminal

SPE media
SPE w. SPoE converter
SPE media
converter

RJ45
terminal

Legacy
Power supply Legacy Legacy
RJ45 device
RJ45 RJ45 device RJ45 device
SPE
050.7466 100 m zone 200-500 m zone 600 m zone
The concept of the all-in-one SPE solution from R&M and Zemfyre

But this is not a must, as the R&M system

SPE solution for buildings can provide the power supply from the
The R&M and Zemfyre SPE extended LAN – Surveillance cameras in remote locations switch. The technology for remote power
system is suitable for connecting IP devices – Remote access control and gates supply via SPE cabling is called Power over
with a low data rate over large distances in – Intercom systems Data Line (PoDL). In PoDL applications, the
buildings and industrial plants. Application – Sensors and displays in large buildings, transmission range is reduced to 200 to 500
examples: e.g. parking garages, warehouses meters depending on the required infeed
power. Until SPE devices become available,
The active equipment for the R&M and Zemfyre SPE extended LAN system: conventional PoE-compatible devices can
also be used by means of an SPE-RJ45 media
converter.

With this overall system, the SPE technology

can be used without delay. You can find
030.8734
030.8735 everything you need to know about SPE here:
SPE Media Converter SPE Switch
ZEM111LP ZEM601L
– 2-port media converter from SPE to – Secure unmanaged SPE switch
RJ45 for connecting PoE devices – Input 2x 10/100Base-Tx, output
– Power input either by local power supply 4x 10Base-T1L, PoDL connectable
or by PoDL from ZEM601L – External power supply or via PoDL
controller

Camera 030.8740
030.8737
ZVD511LP SPE PoDL Controller
– Industrial 5MP surveillance camera with ZPC400 050.7067
10Base-T1L SPE connectivity – 4-channel PoDL controller for ZEM601L
Matthias Gerber
– Powered by PoDL (Class 14), – Allows PoDL power to be supplied to the
Market Manager LAN Cabling
1x IEC 63171-1 connector 4 SPE ports in the ZEM 601L
[email protected]

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 21
Trends
Seamless Connectivity

050.7427

What goes on behind the smartphone? Users rarely ask themselves how and where
the fast connection to the Internet is established. It is accepted as given. But in fact, huge
efforts are made behind the scenes to ensure seamless connectivity.
Consumers are increasingly using mobile data – The industry wants to quickly bring new
transmission. This is not only made possible services, such as 5G, to market everywhere. Trend: Mobile communication
by mobile communication antennas: There Pre-terminated cable systems can speed up – Mobile communication is increasing
and with it the demand for bandwidth
are powerful fiber optic networks working in roll-outs.
that can only be met with more optical
the background. These connect the antenna – In addition to separate antenna lines for
fibers.
sites with each other and with data centers. data and power, hybrid cabling solutions – Mobile infrastructure is becoming a
This enables fast, seamless communication. are also required. success factor for business, govern-
– The multiple use of the masts by various op- ment, and local authorities.
The connection between antenna equipment erators and antenna systems leads to a lack – Expansion is having an impact on
and fiber optic cabling must be exceptionally of space. Cabling with minimal dimensions society. Cellular phone networks
stable. This is the only way to ensure fail-safe is required. provide access to education, infor-
mobile data traffic in the long term. Cabling – Connectivity must be durable and appli- mation, healthcare, banks and digitized
and connectors on the antennas have to cation-neutral. After migration to the next services.
withstand UV radiation, temperature fluctu- generation of antennas (e.g. 6G), the optical
ations, storms, dust, ice and, on coasts, salt interface should still be usable. This is how R&M is working on the vision
water mist for decades. – Non-specialists should also be able to install of seamless, global networking. This also
fiber optic cabling. Specially trained staff are includes the connection of cellular phone
High demands often not on site. networks to fiber optic networks.
The requirements of the mobile communica-
tions industry go beyond that in order to be To meet these requirements, R&M has
able to efficiently implement investments in developed innovative outdoor fiber optic
network infrastructure. Some aspects: connectors and a kit for antenna cabling.
Worldwide pre-termination is also offered.

050.7086

Andreas Rüsseler | CMO

050.7428 030.8696
[email protected]

22 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
Success 050.7446

The solution for

Sistema Fecomércio Bahia
Local Area Network with copper cabling
for the use of 10 Gigabit Ethernet.
– Connectivity: R&M Cat. 6A UTP EL
– R&M patch panels, patch cords
– Cat. 6AU installation cable, 130 km

Advantages of the R&M solution

– Bandwidth and performance
– Support for new digital services
– Better connectivity for IT
– Efficient, agile LAN operation
– Protection against EMI interference
– PoE-ready

cy and performance as well as compatibility

with the customer’s technical resources.

050.7429
Comdados stresses: «A Cat. 6A solution
supports all future digital applications in this

New Network
specific social and educational sector. These
include HD video streaming, video conferenc-
es, virtual and artificial reality, and other agile

for Sistema Fecomércio Bahia

applications that require high bandwidths and
trouble-free data transmission.»

The successful completion of the project is

Modern architecture, modern social services, modern further confirmation of the good cooperation
between Comdados and R&M. The partner-
vocational training and a modern network. That is what ship has been in place since 2016 and ensures
Sistema Fecomércio Bahia in Salvador de Bahia is all about. that needs-based solutions are implemented
for customers. Project coordination and
The business organization Sistema Fecomér- Sistema Fecomércio Bahia operates from an product deliveries can be coordinated on
cio Bahia in Salvador de Bahia supports many unparalleled building in keeping with its great time, even over the vast distances in Brazil.
workers and employers in the state of Bahia. significance for the economy and society in
It represents the interests of companies and the state of Bahia. Its headquarters, the Casa
trade unions in the retail, service, catering and do Comércio Deraldo Motta opened in 1988,
tourism market sectors, and is responsible for is considered an icon of modern architecture.
the autonomous welfare organization and
modern commercial vocational training in The 54-meter-high structure, consisting
these sectors. At the same time, it promotes of metal cubes and glass facades around a
health, culture, theater, leisure, families as well reinforced concrete tower, was renovated
as community activities among the population. some time ago. Sistema Fecomércio Bahia
wanted to install suitable infrastructures for
digital services and IT over the next 30 years.

Only feasible with Cat. 6A

Comdados, R&M’s certified Brazilian integra-
tion partner, carried out a situation analysis
which concluded that only a completely new
and uniform Cat. 6A infrastructure could
050.7430 provide what they were looking for. Those
090.6099 050.6814
050.7153
responsible at Sistema Fecomércio Bahia were
f.l.t.r.: Rodrigo Maschi, R&M Brazil; Kelsor Rodrigo Maschi | R&M Brazil
Gonçalves Fernandes, President Fecomércio; shown the advantages of the modern solution:
[email protected]
Adriano Girão, Account Manager Comdados future-proof connectivity, bandwidth, efficien-

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 23
News

070.0353

Aerial Deployment:
A Sustainable Option
In the age of rapidly increasing networking, R&M is presenting groundbreaking
fiber optic solutions for overhead line connections with its integrated FTTH aerial
portfolio. Modern broadband data transmission to every home is becoming more
and more realistic.
Society is making intensive use of smart network expansion is fast and economical, services and the necessary aerial deploy-
terminals at work and in everyday life. The the effort for planning and personnel is ment – a sustainable A-Z support option so
demand for data is growing and requires dig- limited, and existing infrastructures such that customers can obtain their solutions
ital infrastructures to be expanded in a way as overhead cables, telephone and power quickly and efficiently. The fast, needs-based
that is both efficient and future-proof. The pylons can be used. integration of the components into existing
demand for efficient network infrastructures networks is an important part of the offer.
is rising and fiber optic cabling in particular Fast implementation in existing
is increasingly becoming the universal back- networks The resilient aerial fiber solutions also
bone. But because the expansion of fiber-op- This is where R&M’s fiber optic solutions minimize downtime and enable high band-
tic-based FTTH outside metropolitan areas is for aerial network expansion come into widths and low latencies. They are used in
often not worthwhile for telecommunications play. The flexible, scalable and reliable R&M demanding environments such as wind and
operators, there are still many underserved Precon solutions can be installed quickly via solar parks, road, tunnel and rail infrastruc-
areas, even in industrialized countries. Al- plug & play. The overall solution approach ture, in data-intensive events, as well as in
ternative installation methods such as aerial makes the offer particularly attractive: It not mining, oil fields, industrial facilities and other
deployment as an option to the buried fiber only includes individual components, but also demanding environments.
optic network are in demand. This form of complete system solutions with products,

24 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
Robust and modular system solution Rugged connectors
A wide range of solution modules is available The outdoor connectors HEC-BR and HEC-
for the above-ground expansion of fiber optic QR in protection class IP68 are unique. They
links: Robust power cables pre-terminated are designed for extreme environmental
on one or both sides, including IP-protected conditions and can withstand operating tem-
optical plugs, connectors and adapters as peratures ranging from -40 to 85°C. They are
well as distribution cabinets and ZOONA also UV-resistant and offer push locking and
splices for pole mounting, each optimized twist-pull release. The HEC connectors are
for the various network levels. They are available as SC, LC duplex and MPO versions.
complemented by the Polaris box family
for fiber optic terminations and outlets for
connecting the last meters.

A new addition is the TAP box with IP67 pro-

tection rating, which not only offers IP-pro-
tected adapters and pre-terminated cables,
but is also certified for one incoming and up
to six outgoing fiber optic connections. Ideal
for cabling between mast and terminal/box/
050.7231
building are drop cables – fiber optic cables
with a low to medium number of fibers, a dry
construction and a UV-stable outer sheath. ZOONA: flexible for the last mile
From spring 2024, the ZOONA STP12
with 144 splices will be added to the
range. The tried-and-tested R&M ZOONA
splices are mechanically sealed in IP68 for
typical access network applications with
compact dimensions that are designed for
little space in smaller handholes or already
030.8694
very full shafts. They enable cost-effective
and time-saving installation without special
tools. The preparation of individual cable or
loop entries takes place outside the splice
closure. The functions for overlength and
fiber management, splicing and splitting are
030.8549
available inside.
030.6502

The keys to expanding

aerial grids
– Speed and efficiency: Quick and
easy network expansion thanks to
pre-terminated cables, innovative
distribution cabinets and modern dis-
tribution splice closures
– Resilience: The HEC-BR/QR connec-
tors withstand extreme conditions
– Sustainability: Aerial deployment not
only saves time, but also costs by
using existing infrastructures
050.7267

Stephan Näpfer | Product Manager

[email protected]

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 25
030.7772
News

Architect
of the Data Center
050.7431

DCIM software plays a critical role in efficiently designing, monitoring, and managing
data centers. R&M’s inteliPhy net is particularly user-friendly and an indispensable aid
when planning and managing the entire life cycle infrastructure.

It’s not without reason that people say: Good helps to find optimal routes through ducts Operational phase with asset track-
planning is half the battle. This also applies to and generates a complete inventory, including ing and smart auditing
data center planning because this has a direct all cables with correct lengths. Thanks to the inteliPhy net database created
impact on efficiency, reliability, and scalability. in the planning phase, current, precise docu-
This is precisely what R&M has designed the Drag-and-drop to a digital twin mentation is available at the beginning of data
easy-to-operate Data Center Infrastructure Handling is simple and intuitive using drag- center operation. The powerful asset tracking
Management (DCIM) solution inteliPhy net and-drop actions. Realistic visualizations functions of inteliPhy net enable the identifi-
for. Based on the respective requirements, in 2D and 3D are available at any time to cation of all active and passive devices using
each data center can be individually designed discuss designs with customers and make
using a single floor plan. The software makes it any necessary adjustments directly on the
easy to add racks, structure rows, and define screen. As soon as the draft is approved, an Why inteliPhy net?
enclosures. It offers a variety of prefabricated inventory list automatically generated from – Assists in planning and operating a
models for patch panels, active devices, the design serves as a basis for calculation. data center
– User-friendly
power supply and PDUs as well as the option The inteliPhy net database created in this way
– Single source of supply
of creating a channel system over the racks is then installed at the end user’s as a digital
– Individually adjustable
and/or in raised floors. Patch panels can be twin and is immediately ready to use for the
– Open for all data sources with standard
easily installed in racks and connected with day-to-day operation of the data center. interfaces (SNMP, REST API)
pre-terminated trunk cables. The software

26 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
self-printed QR codes. If specific information immediately. The app also plays a key role in
about a device is required, it is sufficient the smart auditing function of inteliPhy net
to scan the QR code with the inteliPhy net because with smart auditing the time spent
mobile app to call up all the necessary details auditing devices in a data center can be
drastically reduced – from hours to minutes.

Tailor-made During operation, preconfigured Key Perfor-

The versatility of inteliPhy net makes
mance Indicator (KPI) reports allow accurate
it possible to implement tailor-made
monitoring of data center efficiency and
solutions for the respective applications.
Let’s look at one example: R&M’s Cus- resource utilization. All devices and systems
tomized Assembled Packaging Service are automatically included in reports thanks
(CAPaaS) offers factory-side configura- to zero-touch configuration, making imple-
tion of R&M patch panels and thus fast mentation and management efficient and
installation, low packaging volume and error-free.
a reduced carbon footprint. CAPaaS
enables patch panels to be precisely Going further, these KPI reports could serve
030.7166

tailored to the specific needs of each as the basis for the next steps towards an
data center. A dedicated online version
AI-based solution to manage the increasing Changing and monitoring
of inteliPhy net is available to use the
complexity in the data center. during operation
service.
The workflow module of inteliPhy net, which
allows controlled changes to the data center
infrastructure, has a special role to play.
Resources can be reserved, work orders can
be automatically distributed, and the progress
of changes monitored – concurrently, docu-
mentation is always up to date.

An important component of inteliPhy net

is the integrated monitoring system, which
allows real-time monitoring of power
consumption and ambient conditions in the
data center. The system automatically issues
a warning in the event of problems such
as power overload, dangerously high tem-
050.7432
KPI reports give a live view on key resources in the data center. (Graphic: R&M) peratures, water leaks or the unauthorized
opening of doors.

050.5558

050.7433 Reinhard Burkert | Product Manager

[email protected]
Bill of materials automatically generated from the design (Graphic: R&M)

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 27
 News

030.8517

UniRack 2 Optimized:
Sophistication Inside
The tried-and-tested UniRack 2 already offers everything you need for pragmatic
splice cabling in a 19" rack. With a makeover, R&M has now further optimized its
tried-and-tested cable termination for optical fiber connections.

Since the successful market launch of Uni- can be conveniently removed from the hous- efficient handling during ongoing opera-
Rack 2, the specialists at R&M have gathered ing at the front. It has a sophisticated double tions. The unit snaps into place at 45 mm
a wealth of experience from users and further base so that the loose tubes are securely for maintenance work on the coupling or
optimized their proven concept for fiber optic stored separately from the pigtail fibers and the male connector. The unit stops again
installation. Externally, the redesigned patch splice trays. This not only leads to improved at 200 mm, whereby the entire splice unit
box has only been changed by the striking organization, but also to safer connections. including pigtails and splice trays is released
red locking elements. However, the real for additional service work. The splice unit
innovation lies inside, and greatly simplifies Up to four loose tubes, each measuring two can be completely removed by pressing the
installation and servicing. meters, can be stored in the lower level. All it integrated unlocking mechanism. This allows
takes is a flick of the wrist to turn the drawer the splice unit to be removed easily and safely
Space for storage and preparation into a work surface. This enables convenient from the housing.
Now the cable termination can be unlocked preparation of the 19" patch panel for splicing
without tools, and the complete splice unit work, regardless of the subsequent installa-
tion location in the rack.

The integrated splice trays offer a minimum

radius of 40 mm. If after-splicing is necessary,
sufficient space is available for a fiber reserve
of 1.5 m per pigtail. Once the optical fibers
in the splice trays have been successfully
connected, the splice unit effortlessly returns
to the base housing, where pigtail fibers and
loose tubes are stored securely and separately.
050.6970
050.6759
Stoppers ensure efficient handling
Patrick Schilter | Product Manager
The built-in stopper positions in the pull-out
030.8506
[email protected]
mechanism are also useful. These ensure

28 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
Success

Sleeping Better
in Penrith
The new 5-star Pullman Sydney Penrith promises wonderful dreams.
Guests can organize their stay completely digitally – including their sleep.
Tablets in the room and seamless WiFi coverage help.
Cat. 6A EL adapters from R&M ensure stable data transmission.

«The service from R&M was the best

we have seen from a provider in a long time.»
Ross Robertson, QVR Operations Manager 050.7434

The Pullman Sydney Penrith, part of the Accor Installed in the blink of an eye
Pacific Group, is a new icon of top Australian The reasons for the decision: The R&M prod-
hospitality. Digital surprises await guests uct is quick to assemble and terminate. Marc
at the hotel and in the integrated Western Clews, QVR Senior Project Manager, says:
Sydney Conference Centre. The 153 rooms «The ease of use is great. The installation was
feature a smart suite system with tablets as completed in no time at all.» In addition, R&M
a service, information and communication meets quality, security and ESG requirements
interface. For example, you can even call up and fits in with the «love for detail» for which
a sleep therapy menu on the tablets. QVR is known.

050.7435
QVR Communications was responsible for The high-quality LAN infrastructure guar-
the setup of the network infrastructure that antees high-speed data transmission in the A new icon of the Australian hotel industry:
The Pullman Sydney Penrith.
makes this exceptional convenience possible. hotel and conference center according to the
Rooms at the Pullman Sydney Penrith have a
QVR used the shielded Cat. 6A EL connec- client’s wishes. The LAN supports a seamless smart suite system with tablets. This can also be
tion solution from R&M for 1,200 Class EA dedicated WiFi network for hotel rooms, used to call up a sleep therapy menu.
Images: Accor Pacific
connections. The outlets for active devices in conference rooms and public areas.
the rooms are also equipped with Cat. 6A EL
connectivity from R&M. A fiber optic backbone consisting of twelve-
core OM4 riser cables integrates two client
networks. They connect seven specialized
communication rooms. This infrastructure
benefits from a custom-made R&M solution
that QVR implemented professionally.

The certainty of reaching milestones on time

and providing materials reliably played an
important role in project management. QVR
was always able to count on the support of
050.6958
the Australian R&M team. «The service from
Ian Russell
R&M was the best we have seen from a
Managing Director, R&M Australia
provider in a long time,» says Ross Robertson,
090.7198
[email protected]
QVR Operations Manager.

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 29
News

One Cabinet
for Every-
thing
Server, network or both – buy
your own cabinet type for
every situation? That doesn’t
have to be. R&M offers a
complete cabinet system that
is suitable for all applications
in the server room and data
center – especially with high
cabling density.

070.5176

The only thing standard here is the basic down to the last detail thus enabling numer-
measurement: The new 19-inch Freenet ous, flexible options in the network area, in
cabinet generation for all data network and server applications and in data centers. The
server applications offers outstanding mod- integration of additional hardware, such as
ularity and flexibility. The creative modular servers or other powerful devices, is also
system makes installation very easy. Available possible. Access is also well thought out:
in a range of sizes, the 19-inch cabinets are An ingenious hinge system with an opening
designed to be quick and easy to assemble range of 270° ensures unrestricted access to
and equip. They are available in dimensions equipment and cables.
from 42 to 48U, widths of 600 and 800 mm
and depths of 800/1000/1200 mm. Three product lines
The Freenet Classic Line (CL) is designed
A network cabinet can also be upgraded to to take a payload of 800 kg. A predefined
a server cabinet with a load capacity from cabling rack is also available. It consists of the
between 800 kg and a remarkable 1,500 complete base frame and is delivered with a
kg. This makes it possible for network rear wall, two side panels and a glass door for
infrastructures to be continuously expanded the front – assembled or as a flat pack, as you
070.5197
and adapted to fit a customer’s purpose. The desire. All cladding elements can be locked
construction of a Freenet cabinet is modular with the supplied keys. Freenet Superior frame with cold/warm separation

30 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
 070.5094

Modular cabinet structure

The Freenet Expert Line (EL) for server rooms Patch cord management The appropriate Freenet accessories
consists of the base frame, supplemented by and accessories Last but not least, the comprehensive range
a multifunctional strut, which connects the The R&M developers were also highly of accessories provides you with everything
outer profile with the 19" profiles halfway up. committed to integrated vertical patch cord you need to equip a Freenet cabinet system
Thanks to this expansion, a payload weight of management, which enables orderly routing in the best possible way. From cable runs for
up to 1,200 kg is possible. of patch cords and thus combines cabinet safe cable routing through cross rails, fans,
and cable expertise in a single system for the storage compartments and shelves, to jump-
Complete cabinet family first time. This clever solution offers a number ering brackets and patch cord management
The developers at R&M have come up of advantages, such as faster fault detection, systems – with the right accessories, every
with a lot more for the third Freenet Line clear routing and storage of the patch cords rack can be individually designed.
Superior for data center applications, thus as well as the definitive end of chaos in the
completing the range. A robust construction network rack.
forms the foundation. Additional cross rails
Why R&M?
– Single source of supply
increase the load capacity from 800 kg to
– Outstanding quality and robustness
up to 1,500 kg, ensuring stability and safety
– Modularity and adaptability
even for heavier devices and as the number – Optimized air circulation and cooling
of network components increases. Cold/hot – Cable management and order
separation, or efficient heat dissipation, is an- – Security and access control
other important aspect. Fans and perforated – Support and service
doors ensure optimum cooling. Pre-installed – Five-year product warranty
thermostats regulate the fans according to
the cabinet temperature, which improves
power consumption.

All-in-one solution as a concept

In addition to conventional LAN and server
applications, the cabinet concept also
raises enclosure solutions for data center
applications to a new level. Thanks to its
simplified installation and handling, the new
cabinet generation is enjoying a high level
of acceptance among end users, in projects
and among distributors. A key aspect of the
all-in-one solution is the fact that it can be
070.5127 050.7244
easily retrofitted for different applications,
Customers have the choice: On request, the Andreas Klauser | Product Manager
whether for simple data networks or complex Freenet cabinet can be delivered as a flat pack [email protected]
enclosures in the data center. or pre-assembled.

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 31
Corporate

Significant Relief:
The Service Program as an Option
050.7436

Work efficiently – a requirement that is often slowed down by difficult situations

and tasks on the construction site. On request, R&M project managers and installation
professionals can provide support with services that will help engineers and
construction workers concentrate fully on their projects.
On request, R&M relieves planners, general to the running operation of the network. Pre-terminated and tested
contractors, project managers and installation Together, the teams manage specific services Precon services reduce the pressure consider-
companies of time-consuming tasks that that go far beyond the cabling solution. They ably. R&M can deliver racks, modules and dis-
tie up staff. Specialists and resources in all provide the support project partners need tribution cabinets completely pre-terminated.
segments are available for this purpose. most urgently. This has several advantages for installation com-
panies: The goods are delivered to the con-
Even after 60 years, the home market of Splicing experts struction site on time ready-wired, work prepa-
Switzerland remains one of R&M’s most im- Optical fiber splicing is one of the most ration and warehousing are no longer required,
portant markets. Even though 79% of sales sought-after services. It often happens that the installation process is shortened and there
are now generated abroad, Swiss expansion thousands of fibers have to be connected is no residual wastage or packaging waste.
has always been pioneering. In recent years, on a construction site fast. Splicing requires
a very well-functioning, in-house service manual dexterity, patience, time and exper- The assembly service is based on the
organization has been established to meet tise. There is often a lack of skilled workers specifications of the project partners. Cable
the growing demands and needs of the and equipment on site. And this is where material, lengths, batch sizes and connection
entire Swiss market. However, the project the R&M pros come in. They terminate the solutions can be individually specified.
always starts with the 12 technical sales fibers and use precision devices for splicing.
consultants from R&M Switzerland, who This means that installation companies do The goods are delivered just in time. This al-
provide intensive support for connectivity not have to have their own devices and can lows the partners to efficiently drive forward
infrastructure projects from the initial idea concentrate on other project steps. their installation projects.

32 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
 050.7437 050.7438 050.7439 050.7440

R&M Switzerland services

Optional services:
– Splicing, measuring
– Assembling of cables, distributors, enclosures,
racks incl. labeling and factory testing (custo-
mer/project-specific)
– Check-up, appraisal, maintenance, cleaning
– Project management when installing R&M
system solutions

Standard services:
– Support with planning, evaluating, and system
integration
– Measurement data on demand with QR code,
product database
– Engineering, customizing, one-of-a-kind
production
050.7441 050.7442 050.7443 – Packaging as a Service, order picking, logistics
– Overnight delivery of fiber optic goods by
R&M is offering customers close-meshed consulting as well as extensive services at more and
more premises. the meter
– On-site project support through to commissio-
ning of the network
Meticulous measurements The modular principle of the R&M – Online shop
The fiber optic measurements after instal- connectivity solutions makes it easier to
lation require extremely concentrated and design and plan infrastructures individually. In addition:
– Training, certification in the R&M Academy
conscientious work. Hundreds or thousands Nevertheless, some construction projects
– Product, system, application warranty
of ports and links need to be checked. require product modifications or tailor-made
– Product data, 3D/BIM models for CAD planning
Experienced specialists from R&M will take designs. R&M offers engineering services for – Power over Ethernet configurator
over the tasks or support measurements and such cases. In a short time, custom-made – Documentation, manuals, public tender texts
documentation. This allows the partners to products can be provided individually or in – Visio files with graphic templates, dimensions
complete their installation projects quickly. the desired batch sizes. for drawings, product data for material and
With the documentation created by R&M, inventory lists, templates for labels
they fulfill their duties to inform customers. Globally networked
This also serves as the basis for warranties. The Swiss sales region is well advanced with
its range of services. The global networking
Project consulting within the R&M locations ensures that this
Each network stands for itself. Customers knowledge and the wealth of experience
usually expect an individual solution. This are passed on to other regions accordingly.
is why the technical sales consultants from Coordination is carried out by the «Technical
R&M support their projects from the initial Support & Training» department, which, in
planning stage through the construction pro- addition to the long-established international
cess and up to the actual commissioning of QPP program, also ensures that the R&M
the network. They have practical professional experts network with each other and learn
050.7444
experience and additional qualifications. The from each other on an ongoing basis.
Beat Kindlimann | Head of Marketing
international experience of the R&M Group
& Technology, R&M Switzerland
from numerous projects is also incorporated
[email protected]
into the advisory procedure.

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 33
Corporate

Connecting
the Planet
Sustainability in the spirit
of the 17 UN Sustainable
Development Goals, or SDGs
for short, is increasingly
permeating the entire R&M
Group. This is documented Connecting the Planet
in the R&M Sustainability With its service portfolio, R&M wants
to network people and organizations
Report 2023. For the first responsibly while conserving resources.
time, the expanded and The sustainability focus is on the following 090.6300

four main spheres of activity:

restructured report is based
on a double materiality
analysis. Connecting People encompasses all topics
relating to R&M’s social commitment
What does sustainability mean for R&M? In measures and discuss successes. At the same
recent months, the people in charge at the time, they act as multipliers in order to anchor
company have been dealing with that ques- R&M’s sustainability strategy more deeply
tion more intensively than ever before. The in the teams and to establish it more firmly Connecting Nature covers all environmental
and climate protection issues
aim was to further develop the sustainability outside the company.
strategy defined in 2021 and anchor it more
deeply in the R&M Group. The «Connecting One major task was to draw up what is called
the Planet» program brings together all the a dual materiality analysis for the first time. Connecting Ethics addresses the ethical
answers. It links the sustainability strategy This analysis identifies opportunities and risks and compliance principles according to
even more closely with the corporate mission for companies, people and the environment, which R&M acts
«Connectivity that matters». weighting them more precisely. Up until that
point, CSER-relevant opportunities and risks
«Connecting the Planet» describes how R&M had been assessed by a panel of experts. But
wants to network people and organizations now, numerous relevant internal and external Connecting Circularity encompasses all
aspects of the R&M value-added chain
responsibly while conserving resources. At stakeholder groups were involved in a survey.
its core, it is about the service portfolio and Sustainability topics categorized in advance
offering: infrastructure solutions for data were considered from two perspectives:
and communications networks. But from a Both the perspective of how great an impact
holistic perspective, it’s about much more. people see R&M having on the environment,
The four defined spheres of activity relate to society and governance, as well as the op-
people and social commitment, environment posite perspective of how great an impact
and climate, ethics and compliance, and people see the environment, society and
circularity in the value-added chain. governance having on R&M. With the results
of the materiality analysis, R&M is hoping for
With its business activities, R&M actively more effective planning of sustainability goals
contributes to ensuring that, among others, and measures as well as a stronger focus on
the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals the most relevant topics.
have a greater impact.
R&M reports continuously on the topic of 050.7445
Network of ambassadors sustainability. A lot of more detailed informa-
Isabel Stark
Sustainability ambassadors have formed a tion can be found on the website.
Senior Manager Corporate Communications
global network within the R&M Group since [email protected]
the end of 2023. They support local CSER

34 | CONNECTIONS 04|2024–66
60 years
connectivity that matters

04|2024–66 CONNECTIONS | 35
Join us on
social media!

Further information on our blog portal:

www.rdm.com/blog/

Headquarters

Switzerland
Reichle & De-Massari AG
Binzstrasse 32
CHE-8620 Wetzikon
Phone +41 (0)44 933 81 11

www.rdm.com

Contact
R&M Corporate Communications Team
[email protected]