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Reserve Your Seat TodayAt DPS, our goal is to make network monitoring straightforward and effective. It doesn't matter how big or small your project may be.
Recently, JP, one of our experienced sales engineers, engaged in a conversation with a client via web chat. The client needed a solution for a small network monitoring project. Let's dive into their discussion to see how and why it led to the recommendation of a new device for their system.
The conversation began with the client outlining their requirements:
"I'm looking for a small network monitoring system which can provide a display interface to just a few SNMPv3 devices."
JP then moved to gather more details about the project's scope:
"How many SNMP devices does your project have?"
The client clarified:
"At this point, 2, but possibly more in expansion - probably no more than a dozen."
This initial interaction highlights the need for scalability in monitoring solutions. The client's current requirement was for two devices. However, the potential for expansion to up to twelve devices was an important consideration.
This is a common scenario because most small-scale projects need room to grow. It's important that they're able to do so without requiring a complete overhaul of the monitoring system later.
Next, JP sought to understand the specifics of what the client needed to monitor:
"When you mention display interface, can you tell me what you are wanting to see on the display?"
The client provided more information:
"An 'on' or 'off' condition on a VSAT BUC redundancy controller and signal strength, power output, and eb/N0 on a satellite modem. All available on SNMPwalk. Probably no more than 10 functions."
JP clarified further:
"10 functions translate to 10 OIDs?"
The client confirmed that JP's assumption was accurate:
"Correct."
The detailed requirements provided by the client indicate the importance of having a flexible and capable monitoring system. The functions needed included monitoring signal strength and power output. These functions are critical for maintaining the integrity of satellite communications and many other equipment types.
JP asked about OIDs to confirm that our NetGuardian's SNMP Alarm architecture was a good match for the monitoring requirement.
After understanding the requirements, JP recommended the T/Mon MINI as the ideal solution:
"Ok, with that information, the best solution would be our T/Mon. Since you are not planning on having a lot of devices, the T/Mon MINI would be my recommendation at this point."
DPS Telecom's solutions are designed to accommodate specific and technical needs. The T/Mon MINI's flexibility in handling various OIDs makes it an ideal choice for detailed and precise network monitoring.
The device is perfect for small to medium-sized monitoring projects. It offers many capabilities without the complexity and cost associated with larger systems. This ensures that even small networks can have professional-grade monitoring and management.
JP next worked to understand the client's requirement for data accessibility:
"The display, will it be used in a room where it is on the screen full time with someone monitoring? Or are you looking at logging into the display when needed?"
The client responded with their preference:
"As a contingency, I would propose a full-time monitorable display (which may wind up in a lights-off room) with the ability to log in and read historical data."
Having a full-time monitoring display along with the ability to access historical data is vital for ongoing network management and troubleshooting. The T/Mon excels in providing continuous real-time data monitoring while also logging historical data for retrospective analysis. This capability ensures that network issues can be identified and addressed promptly, minimizing downtime.
The client was satisfied with the solution and inquired about pricing and availability:
"Looks perfect. Price? Availability?"
JP provided the details:
"It starts at about $6k, depending on the scale of your monitoring requirements. We build to order so lead time is 30 days from when we receive the purchase order."
The client then asked about recurring fees:
"Any license or user recurring fees?"
JP reassured them:
"One purchase and you own it. We do offer an optional Maintenance Agreement on an annual basis. It does pay off in the long run."
Transparency in pricing and availability is vital in client communications. By providing clear information on the cost and lead time, JP helped the client make an informed decision. The T/Mon MINI's pricing makes it accessible for smaller projects without compromising on quality.
DPS Telecom's approach provides a one-time purchase model with optional maintenance agreements. This is beneficial for clients looking to manage their budgets effectively. The optional maintenance agreement ensures long-term support and regular software updates.
JP explored the possibility of broader applications within the client's organization:
"When you mentioned this was a small piece of your system integration project, I am curious to see if we have any other options that would work in other areas of your project."
The client explained:
"It's only VSAT links and spectrum (space segment) management."
Understanding the broader context of the client's project allows DPS Telecom to suggest additional solutions that could enhance overall system integration.
JP inquired about potential future needs for the client:
"Does the project require any devices needing digital/analog inputs and relay outputs?"
The client indicated potential future projects:
"Not this one, but we are a systems integration provider and may have future projects that do."
Planning for future scalability is essential for any monitoring system. The T/Mon MINI is able to handle digital and analog inputs, along with relay outputs. This makes sure that it can accommodate future expansions or new projects. This future-proofing aspect makes the T/Mon MINI a wise investment for growing organizations.
As the conversation concluded, JP ensured all details were covered:
"I will work on your proposal today. You should have an email with a link to download the quote later this evening."
The client confirmed their contact details, and JP promised a prompt follow-up.
Efficient and responsive customer service is a hallmark of DPS Telecom. We make sure to provide timely and accurate proposals. In doing so, we ensure that our clients have all the necessary information to make informed decisions. This commitment to excellence in customer service, combined with our advanced monitoring solutions, establishes DPS Telecom as a trusted partner in network management.
This conversation exemplifies how DPS Telecom tailors solutions to meet specific client needs. The T/Mon MINI provides a scalable, cost-effective, and flexible network monitoring solution suitable for small projects with the potential for growth.
If you are in need of a reliable and scalable network monitoring solution, consider the T/Mon MINI. Our experts, like JP, are ready to assist you in finding the perfect setup for you.
Call DPS now at 1-800-693-0351 or email sales@dpstele.com to get started with your custom network monitoring solution.
Andrew Erickson
Andrew Erickson is an Application Engineer at DPS Telecom, a manufacturer of semi-custom remote alarm monitoring systems based in Fresno, California. Andrew brings more than 17 years of experience building site monitoring solutions, developing intuitive user interfaces and documentation, and opt...
