The exponential growth of data traffic, distributed computing architectures, AI clusters, and 400/800/1600G links demand highly dense, modular, and easily migratable fiber optic infrastructures. R&M designed the Netscale family to offer this convergence of density, flexibility, and automation. With this new iteration, the company aims to facilitate phased migrations and minimize downtime while maximizing rack space utilization.
Key new features in the latest version of Netscale
The updates introduced address four main vectors: port density, support for emerging connectivity, scalable modularity, and intelligent monitoring capabilities:
New vertical versions of Netscale 120, Netscale 72, and Netscale 48 are being launched in 2U and 4U configurations, enabling the deployment of ultra-dense fiber optic infrastructures in 19″ racks.
Specifically, Netscale 72 offers 72 ports per rack unit (1U) with full fiber utilization, combining Base-8 and Base-12 on a single platform.
With its split tray design, each half can be removed independently, allowing for maintenance without disrupting other connections.
The new versions support Very Small Form Factor (VSFF) connectors such as CS, SN, and MDC, as well as denser MPO variants like MPO^16.
Compatibility with MPO, SC, LC, and E-2000 modules facilitates migrations between different connectivity schemes in data centers.
In the case of Netscale 48, the mixed-media approach is maintained, allowing copper (Cat. 6, 6A, 8) and fiber connections to coexist in the same panel, facilitating gradual transitions in existing installations.
Modules and cassettes can be inserted from the front or rear of the panel, making installation and future upgrades easier.
The system supports hot-swappable expansion, so modules can be added or swapped without interrupting overall operation.
In Netscale 72, the split-tray design is used, which allows work to be done on one half of the tray without disturbing the other half, reducing the risk of downtime during maintenance.
The platform integrates with the inteliPhy infrastructure automation system, enabling automatic port documentation, visual guidance with LEDs, and real-time connection tracking.
The transparent front panel allows you to directly view the status of the inteliPhy without having to open the panel door.
Netscale's existing AIM (Automated Infrastructure Management) functions allow for the detection of cable insertions or removals and ensure that documentation is always up to date.
Along with the panels, the Netscale family incorporates high-density backbone cables with up to 288 fibers, already terminated and factory tested to accelerate commissioning.
The cables are designed with bend-insensitive fiber, supporting reduced bend radii (15 mm), making them robust against handling in high-density environments.
QSFP+ converters are used that break down 12-fiber connectivity into 8-fiber schemes to support 40/100G transceivers without unused density loss.
Netscale 120 is designed for high-density, large-scale deployments in hyperscale data centers and telecommunications. It offers up to 120 ports with QR connectivity, delivering maximum performance with intelligent infrastructure management. Its advanced automation, labeling capabilities, and automated management via inteliPhy ensure optimal performance.
Support for LC and MPO trunks.
Labeling and integration with inteliPhy (up to 80 ports).
Automation and monitoring.
120 ports per unit.
Automated intelligence with inteliPhy.
Elimination of troubleshooting.
Visual patching guidance with LEDs on the ports.
