Cisco Debuts Catalyst Digital Building Series Switch

Cisco announced the Catalyst Digital Building Series Switch. It is the first switch built specifically for the needs of digital buildings by powering and connecting building systems onto a single, low-voltage IP network. This milestone is at the heart of the smart building vision Cisco is defining with its growing list of 23+ ecosystem partners.
 
The new digital building switch ties into Cisco's ambitions to change how enterprise networks are built and managed. Cisco is using a new digital network architecture – Cisco DNA – to build more automated, responsive, self-driving networks. A new network that can dynamically respond to the ever-changing needs of the digital business. 
 
What's new?

1. Supports convergence: Disparate systems like lighting, HVAC, and badging can be managed on the same switch. This is due to the switch's support of a key IoT protocol called the Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP) — an industry first.
2. Delivers twice the power: The switch supports bigger, brighter lighting fixtures – and can get the power back on within 5 seconds of a power outage. The 60W per-port Cisco UPOE technology delivers twice the power of current PoE+.
3. Simplifies installation:  We designed the switch with ease of installation in mind. Technicians use Bluetooth and a mobile app to install and deploy it.
4. Runs noise-free: Its fanless design makes it ideal for anywhere that requires quiet – like hospitals, retail shops, hotels, and the workplace.

 

Who's using it?
A Texas-based property development firm knew it had a huge opportunity as it transformed an iconic downtown Fort Worth office space into an upscale hotel that would be managed by Marriott. Sinclair Holdings wanted to include all the digital bells and whistles for guests. They also wanted to shrink energy bills and make installation easy. The hotel is experiencing a 50% reduction in energy costs. Powered by Cisco's new switch, the property is scheduled for completion next summer. It will feature motorized blinds, as well as temperature and lighting control.
 
"The Catalyst Digital Building Series Switch allows us to converge disparate building systems onto a single IP platform," said Farukh Aslam, president at Sinclair Holdings, LLC. "We can now establish digital competencies for tomorrow's hospitality industry. As one of the world's largest hospitality brands, this allows Sinclair Marriott Autograph Hotel to enjoy real-time analytics and reduce energy costs. It also offers our business travelers and unique destination vacationers an authentic, enhanced boutique experience."