CYDN Operations

Each CYDN center is linked via broadband digital lines, connected in a star configuration to Coen, with control, operations and management functions supervised by the CYDN Network Operations Center at Cairns. The network operations center provides Level 2 and 3 support to each CYDN center and our customers.

Each centre is equipped with a Cisco 2620 router that provides the intelligence to route the various data streams for video conferencing, Intranet, Internet and other data applications. The router connects to a 10/100 MB switch for separate connection of up to 24 devices. For example, computers, Video Conference terminal equipment and AiroNet are all connected via the Ethernet network.

Diagram No 1. Typical CYDN centre network configuration

Communities or businesses requiring Ethernet or other connections beyond a CYDN center are facilitated by using the CYDN Wireless Ethernet connection (via Cisco AiroNet).

The Aironet 350 Ethernet Bridge operates at 2.4GHz using a spread spectrum scheme based on the IEEE 802.11b standard. It is a line of sight radio connection for data rates ranging from 1Mbps to 11Mbps with a number of output power options. Most CYDN centers are commissioned with wireless capabilities.

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Diagram No 2. Diagramatic representation of the CYDN network configuration

A CYDN centre and the CYDN Network Operations Center are located at Cairns. CYDN's servers, application software, network management software and Internet connection are located at Cairns. The video conference bridge is physically located at Coen.

The Network Operations Center manages the digital communication links to each CYDN center through management software that allows the expansion or reduction of the number of 64Kbps links, as required by usage patterns. By maintaining control over the digital capacity to each CYDN center, CYDN is able to provide a consistent quality of service and minimize operational telecommunications costs.

Internet access from each CYDN centre is gained via the Cairns ADSL link to an ISP. Currently this is a 1.5M/256Kbps ADSL link. CYDN employs the web filtering software, WebSense to protect minors from inappropriate content.

CYDN utilises Microsoft server technology, including ISA server, Exchange and other products. The deployment of Thin Client technology to the CYDN centres utilizes Citrix Metaframe to reduce support costs. Secure wireless technology and VPN access allows for easy access to the CYDN centres. All networking infrastructure utilises the latest quality CISCO equipment.