Genetec launches new enclosure management system for data centers

Genetec has released a new enclosure management solution that will give data centers the ability to secure, monitor and manage access to racks and cabinets remotely.

Utilising industry-specific NEMA TS2 (National Electrical Manufacturer Association) compliant hardware through Cloud Link Roadrunner technology, the new light-architecture device sets to provide more options for those working in scalable data center environments.

The new technology also leverages the latest developments in access management software, aiming to help securely streamline complex issues relating to access and security.

The company says that many of today's data center enclosures are now state of the art but that the tools used to manage and secure these assets are often outdated. They say simple mechanical keys and standalone electronic locks are still commonplace, which can often overcomplicate a data center's working process.

By unifying enclosure management and video surveillance with the new development, the company says data centers can now have the opportunity to see and control when, how, and by whom their racks and cabinets are accessed.

Security staff and engineers can also instantly verify an event without having to deploy crews and act promptly if needed, while access to cabinets and racks can be granted remotely and customised to the nature of the project and the role of the contractor or employee.

As a result, data center operators have the ability to provide their customers with secure self-service management and reporting of cabinet access.

They will have the ability to create custom dashboards and reports, analyse data and activity patterns, and track contract work to reconcile contractor billing. Additionally, they can help determine trends, perform searches, and run investigations for forced openings or other usage abnormalities.

Genetec country manager for ANZ George Moawad says he is surprised that many centers still use outdated technology, and often these mechanical locks are not ideal for certain situations and issues that can arise. He says the new solutions will provide a driven compliance and management approach.

"It's shocking to consider the number of data centers that still use traditional mechanical locks which can be opened by generic keys purchased from the local hardware store.

"The new enclosure management solution from Genetec will enable our customers to move away from this approach and into a data driven management and compliance approach underpinned by a unified system."

With the new technology, less rack space will also be used with a slim 1U mount design connected to ASSA ABLOYs new server rack lock, which can control six rack enclosures while occupying only 1U space for the controller hardware. This is significantly less space used when compared to other solutions that require 3-6U per cabinet, depending on the architecture.

Genetec is headquartered in Montreal, Canada but has a network of certified channel partners and consultants in over 159 countries.