R&M on Board with Fiber Optics
R&M, the globally active developer and provider of cabling systems for high-quality network infrastructures, based in Wetzikon, Switzerland, is extending its range for high-speed data networks on ships and offshore platforms. R&M is now including FO systems and the products from the Cat. 6A RJ45 line in its maritime range.
The line enables data transmission up to 10 Gigabit Ethernet. Because just like networks in office blocks and administrative buildings, in data centers and factories, in-ship data networks have to be able to handle an ever increasing amount of data traffic. Today, numerous applications, such as telecommunication, infotainment and TV, Internet, wireless LAN, video surveillance, warning systems, sensors and ship automation, are included.
The R&M copper cabling for ships is not only used for data transport but also for supplying power to end devices. The products are designed for an electrical output of 90/100 Watt. In ship building, the Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology is gaining significance to supply antennas, cameras, displays and security systems without additional electrical cabling. This reduces weight, the space required and installation time. Particularly when using PoE, the contacting of the wires has to be particularly sturdy and stable. And our IDC technology (IDC = Insulation Displacement Connector) is perfect for that. Inadequate connections could result in dangerous sparks or arcs. IDC has been shown to be the most robust and reliable way of contacting for copper cabling on boar. The insulation displacement contacting has the lowest resistance values in technological comparisons which guarantees stable, low-attenuating signal transmission. For decades now, R&M has been a leading developer in insulation displacement contacting both in terms of technology and quality.
All over the world, R&M branches are providing shipyards and suppliers not only with expertise, connection and distributor solutions, but also with cabling and completely pre-terminated units. The field-terminable copper and fiber-optic FM45 and FO Field connectors provide more flexibility. This means ship chandlers can select individual cabling paths during installation.
There are few settings as demanding for the operation of Ethernet/IP data networks as seagoing vessels and off-shore equipment. Ferries, cargo ships and cruise liners are virtually always on the move. They travel through all climate zones and are exposed to salty sea air. That means harsh conditions for connectors, connection modules, cables and distributors. They have to withstand vibrations, impact, frequent changes of temperature, damp and aggressive environments, and powerful electromagnetic fields. All R&M components for in-ship data networks have passed the testing and certification procedure of the classification organization DNV-GL (DanskeNorskeVeritas – Germanischer Lloyd). This enables the creation of data channels suitable for the high seas which consist entirely of certified R&M components. And the DNV-GL certification proves that the R&M components are suitable for use at sea.
The quality of network installation is not simply about the suitability of the components. R&M sets great store by top quality over the entire value added chain right through to commissioning. Installers have to prove their worth to R&M to be able to install products and final measurements are always examined by R&M.
R&M underscores the functionality of the modularly designed cabling solutions. For example, special requirements can be implemented. Copper and FO cabling can be installed together. The networks can be extended, retrofitted and adapted as well as maintained easily. For passenger cabins, R&M develops installations which provide the same convenience you would expect in hotels, offices and smart homes. If the need arises, R&M will work together with shipyards, designers, planners and system integrators to develop specific infrastructures tailored to the particular tasks of a ship.