The core software technology of the ZX2000 goes far beyond simple Ethernet switch management. The field proven OpenArchitect® embedded operating system provides Linux-enabled flexibility in management protocols, configuration, packet vectoring, and high-availability features. Only ZNYX OpenArchitect uses familiar, industry-standard Linux interfaces, enabling simple system configuration and true transparency for network integration.

Continuous (“five nines” or better) operation is a hard requirement in most networks, making hardware redundancy a must. Software facilities are equally critical to enable automatic, rapid re-convergence of the network around failed components. OpenArchitect/HA fills this need with the fastest fail-over performance possible in packet-switched networks. Instead of convergence in seconds or minutes as is typical for STP/RSTP failover schemes, OpenArchitect/HA can fail-over in milliseconds, often faster than the dual-SONET standard of 50 milliseconds.

A bonus feature unique to ZNYX Networks OpenArchitect® switches is also found on the ZX1900. Packet Vectoring refers to the ability of the switch to send packets port to port using any information within the packet. This enables load balancing, security monitoring, and many other applications that would otherwise not be possible. Because the silicon handles the real-time decision making, all packet vectoring happens at full line rate without restrictions.

The OA/PV implementation uses the familiar Linux iptables control interface to implement packet vectoring rules. With very little learning curve, network technicians can configure packet vectoring subsystems that eliminate the need for expensive external load balancing or network processing systems.

The Shelf Manager is key to managing low-level hardware components within the system. Electrical and Temperature sensors on the node blades and chassis are continuously monitored and pre-defined actions can be taken if required. The shelf manager is also responsible for ensuring that 3rd Party AdvancedTCA blades inserted into the system share compatible signaling characteristics to reduce the opportunity for damage caused by in-field servicing.
The ZX2000 shelf managers are based on the Pigeon Point shelf management software. By using the well-known PPS interface, applications that were developed to run in full-size 14 slot chassis can be scaled down to the ZX2000 6 slot design with ease.