Communications specialist Cisco introduced the Catalyst 3560-C and
Catalyst 2960-C Compact Series (C-Series) switches, designed for
locations that pose unique wiring, space or power challenges. Roughly
half the size of a Microsoft Xbox video game console, C-Series Switches
are designed to enable the deployment of secure customer services,
including unified communications, wireless access, IP video and other
applications.
C-Series Switches can be deployed up to 100 meters away from the wiring
closet, while pass-through PoE technology powers Internet Protocol
devices in locations without access to power outlets. The switches can
draw power from an upstream (PoE+/PoE-capable) switch or a router in
the wiring closet, to power itself and to drive power downstream to the
IP devices connected to it.
The switches also feature Cisco Catalyst Smart Operations for "zero
touch" setup and troubleshooting, and Auto Smartports for automatically
configuring the switch based on the types of devices that connect to
it. Automatic quality of service enables state-of-the-art QoS
implementation for IP telephony and video with just one command. The
switches can also be remotely managed along with the switches in the
wiring closet. The company’s EnergyWise technology delivers the
capability to monitor, manage and reduce the energy consumption of the
devices connected to the switch. Devices can be turned off and powered
down when they are not needed
With Cisco’s TrustSec security platform, network data remains protected
because all packets between the switch and the end device are encrypted
right at the source. Strict security policies can be implemented based
on user IDs, organizational roles, and device types. In addition,
malicious users can be proactively blocked from eavesdropping on the
conversation or data transmission between two endpoints, while theft of
the switch and unauthorized access to the cables can be prevented with
an optional security lock and cable guard. The C-Series Switches are
also PCI-compliant to help ensure regulatory compliance for payment
transactions.
"The C-Series Switches exemplify the customer-driven innovation that
Cisco is known for. Today’s organizations are packing more networked
devices into more challenging environments; from hospitality to health
care, new business needs are driving new requirements for the access
network,” said Rob Soderbery, senior vice president and general manager
of Cisco’s Ethernet switching technology group. “The C-Series Switches
are powerful compact managed switches that provide all the Borderless
Networks capabilities and benefits found in Cisco’s enterprise-class
Catalyst 2960 and 3560 Series Switches."