SNMP? It’s a system lifeline

SIMPLE NETWORK Management

Protocol (SNMP) is a protocol used primarily for the monitoring of networkconnected devices — and it’s fairly fundamental to the way your cinema systems operate, writes Omnex service engineer John Caswell.

Embedded into most modern network devices, such as your projector, server, sound processor and router, SNMP has been about in some form for more than 30 years. And here’s why it’s so important — SNMP allows for passive monitoring and for networked devices

SNMP actively flags your system errors — like a cry for help

actively to send out messages in case of errors and failures, like a cry for help.

We use SNMP for our Monitoring Server, which is a part of our Network Operations Centre (NOC). This allows us to monitor your equipment for errors and equipment failures (aspects such as fan and hard drive health, temperatures etc), usually allowing us to pick up on any issues before they develop into drama. We’re also able to monitor when you may need a new lamp for your projector. Any supported cinemas to which we have a remote connection, can be on our Monitoring System. It’s a handy service that can prevent problems before they occur, so give us a call if you’d like to know more!