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4/27/2017

PacStar: 300-Series Communication Modules

PacStar has introduced the 300-Series family of small communications modules for commercial and industrial applications.

The new modules provide enterprise-class networking functionality and security in a compact, rugged form factor, which makes them "ideal" for deployment to the edge of networks where they often will face temperature extremes, excessive vibration and poor power quality, company officials said in a press release.
 
The need for rugged networking equipment suitable for use in far-flung locations continues to grow, according to PacStar. Driving factors include the Internet of Things and the growth of video, automation and IP-based communications. All these applications require a high-performance, reliable and secure infrastructure capable of integrating with existing enterprise networks.

Building on the PacStar 400-Series that has been widely deployed throughout the United States military, the PacStar 300-Series has been environmentally tested for use in sheltered environments subject to extreme temperatures, vibration and more. The modules incorporate commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) networking and server technologies, including Cisco routers.

In many remote applications — such as wayside bungalows in the case of railroads — space is at a premium. The PacStar modules are engineered into a compact enclosure that's easy to transport, as well, according to the company. The modules include embedded advanced power conditioning, maximizing uptime even in poor-quality power situations.

The PacStar 300-Series includes three models:

·         PacStar 341, a small router module that provides high-performance routing, switching, security and advanced network services for critical voice, data and video connectivity. It's based on Cisco technology and provides up to 4 LAN ports.
·         PacStar 342, a small switch module that offers high-density network access ports for critical voice, data and video connectivity. It uses advanced Cisco switching technology and provides up to 10 ports of LAN access.
·         PacStar 351, a small server module that provides a high-performance virtualization platform for hosting multiple software applications. It's available in several configurations with fifth generation Intel Core i5 and Xeon processing platforms in both dual-core and quad-core variants.

"In a growing number of industries, companies can gain a competitive advantage, improve efficiency and reduce costs by moving networks and applications out to the edge of the network. But many of these locations are not-well suited for traditional IT room network routers and servers," said Peggy Miller, chief executive officer for PacStar. "Now, with the PacStar 300-Series, companies can take maximum advantage of the benefits these types of applications can provide with confidence that their infrastructure is literally battlefield-proven."