January 27, 2009 -- Belden has introduced its Cable Management Configurator, a software tool that allows users to quickly specify error-free enclosure/rack systems. The configurator has been designed to meet the needs of four user groups: distributors of Belden products, consultants who are involved in specifying purchases for a project, system integrators/contractors, and end-users. The tool enables users to build enclosure systems that meet their specific requirements.
Accorcding to Belden, via the tool, users will be able to build a complete configuration (often in less than 10 minutes, claims the company), having the confidence that all components selected will work together. Users can also view and download CAD drawings, access and download relevant spec sheets, drawings and pictures, request a quote and create a template that makes it easy to create multiple orders.
In addition, Belden distributors can browse through a Belden product catalog and build a quote containing a mix of configurable enclosures, accessories and options. They can then generate a quote document in PDF format under their own logo for printing, faxing or emailing to prospective customers. They can also convert a quote to a sales order for submission to Belden.
According to the company, the Configurator is designed to be a highly functional, responsive and easy-to-use tool for day-to-day operations. It simplifies choices in what can otherwise be a complex and lengthy decision and ordering process. Its logical user-interface and division of access modes, based on user experience or intent, make it operate faster than other comparable enclosure configurators, claims the company, which can entail cumbersome applications handling large, executable files that must be downloaded to a users' computer. The Belden Configurator does not require memory allocation inside the user's computer; the tool runs directly off Belden's server.
In addition, the Belden Configurator is visually-oriented to make it more user-friendly. The system's user interface includes screen zones for user interaction, visualization, information, and summary. Users can select the system's parametric 2D CAD interface, which will depict elevation, top and side views of the configured enclosure. Configuration files are archived on Belden's secure server; users have their own password-protected area within the server. Users can store their templates and final configurations and access them at any time for easy updating.
Users of the Belden Configurator will benefit from access to the company's portfolio of cable management products. For example, users can choose from Belden's offering of free-standing enclosures, wall-mount enclosures and open rack systems for use in computer rooms, data centers, telecom closets, security, broadcasting and A/V applications. The range of options and accessories include cable managers, doors, filler panels, tops, shelves, cooling items, power distribution units, and more.
To access the Belden Cable Management Configurator for trial use, go to: www.belden.com/configurator
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