To meet the needs of small and medium-sized ISPs as well as larger operators, we are continuously developing NetStork, our telecommunications network inventory system. The latest release – NetStork 16 – brings improvements mainly in performance, integration with GIS systems, and data import into the application. Check out how these latest changes can improve your team’s everyday work.
- Advanced area-based and predicate-based authorization – full control over data security
- Fast database refresh – uninterrupted system operation
- Web application improvements – convenient work in the field and in the office
- Online map extensions – more efficient work on selected map backgrounds
- Smart service data import – automation that saves hours of work
- Extended data export in Shapefile format – a complete and accurate network view in external systems
- Other improvements in NetStork 16.0
Fast database refresh – uninterrupted work with the system
In NetStork 16.0, we optimized database view refresh. The system now retrieves only the data that has changed, instead of loading the entire database. The function is available in both the Desktop and WEB application.
For the WEB server, which supports many users at the same time, this means smooth, uninterrupted operation. Thanks to the almost immediate refresh of the view, user requests are handled without disruption, regardless of how often users use the Refresh function.
WEB Application Improvements – convenience in the field and in the office
The NetStork browser application has gained features that significantly improve its usability, especially during field operations.
New online image gallery – easier browsing of images/photos
To make browsing images in the WEB application easier, we added an online image viewer. Now, users can quickly view attached photos and images in a separate tab, saving time and storage space compared to downloading them to a computer or phone.
In addition to browsing, the gallery function makes it possible to:
- download an image to a local device,
- copy the image URL to make sharing images easier and improve collaboration.
- browse images in two modes: framed and full-screen. The full-screen mode is particularly useful for smartphone and tablet users when a more detailed analysis is required.
NetStork 16.0: Image gallery in the NetStork WEB application
Improved map quality – full readability regardless of scale
In NetStork 16, we improved the map’s sharpness and readability at smaller scales. Map quality can be further enhanced with the new function for increasing the resolution of downloaded tiles.
Fast switching from layer to layer online – uninterrupted work for many users
Defined online maps can now be turned on and off directly in the browser, without the need to change the configuration. As a result, each user can use different online map backgrounds and switch between them at any time without affecting other users’ work.
NetStork 16: Managing the visibility of maps online in the NetStork WEB application
Extensions for online maps – more efficient work with selected map backgrounds
Support for Esri ArcGIS online maps – smooth work with ESRI ArcGIS map services
In NetStork 16.0, we added support for the ArcGIS REST API online map interface. This standard is similar to OGC WMS/WMTS, although there are differences at the API level, as it is a proprietary ESRI standard. As with WMS/WMTS, two methods of map publication are supported:
- Dynamic Map Service – similar to WMS, it generates the map dynamically, allowing individual map layers to be turned on and off.
- Tiled Map Service – similar to WMTS, a static tile-based service that provides a rendered map containing all available map layers.
NetStork 16: Configuration of the online ArcGIS online map backgrounds in the NetStork application
Map transparency – displaying multiple backgrounds at the same time
For any WMS/WMTS sources, it is now possible to add an alpha channel, making maps partially transparent. This allows selected maps to be displayed simultaneously, even if a given service does not originally generate transparent results.
NetStork 16: View of map backgrounds with transparency enabled on the selected layer
Adding an OSM background to WMS/WMTS maps – flexible layer combination and visibility management
OSM backgrounds can now be added to WMS configuration using the Mercator/WGS-84 coordinate system. Users can set the drawing order of the OSM source and its transparency to overlay it on other maps for greater visibility and management options.
Intelligent service data import – automation that saves hours of work
Entering service data or importing new services in bulk from other systems can be challenging. To simplify this process, we have extended the CSV loader with virtual tables: [Fiber Relation] and [PON Service].
With this function, complete services can be imported by providing only their endpoint data. NetStork 16.0 will trace the current network and automatically determine the route. What is more, if connections are missing in the nodes, the system will use the shortest-path engine, automatically build the route, and create the necessary connections. This improvement saves many hours of manual work.
NetStork 16: Service data import from a CSV file
Extended export of data in shapefile format – a complete and precise network image in external systems
The SHP export function in NetStork 16.0 has gained new capabilities. The system now allows the export of all network data, not only the data with assigned map geometry. Objects located within infrastructure elements, such as devices placed in cabinets or manholes, will be visualized at the exact physical location of the structure in which they were installed.
Additionally, we introduced the option to export the actual routes of linear objects, such as cables or ducts, rather than only their schematic geometry.
As a result, SHP export can now provide complete cable data, including their precise routes on the map.
Other improvements in NetStork 16.0
- We improved the handling of communication errors with the license server – the application does not stop working with the first error, giving the user a chance to intervene. This makes the application more resistant to temporary network issues and communication loss with the license server.
- We added the ability to connect fibers to tray slots to model pigtails placed directly on the tray.
- In summary reports, we added a new data source that allows summary reports to include objects located within the area of another object (such as a Project).
- The service report can now also be run for splitters, WDM devices, and patch panels.
- We added a cancel operation button to the data verification window.
- We added the ability to define the number and type of splitters directly in the splice/box specification, so they are generated automatically when the splice/box is added.
- We added the possibility to define an individual text style for each type of linear object displayed on the map.
- We added the possibility to print a description for the schematic geometry of a cable. The description can be customized using decriptions configuration.
- We added new fields to the data model:
- Pole: Warranty Date, Inspection Date, Production Date
- Service: External ID
Accelerate and streamline your work with the network with NetStork
Test NetStork’s new features. Try out the new capabilities of the NetStork 16 inventory management system and see how NetStork can support your network: