As part of a $450,000 enterprise IT upgrade, Melbourne Zoo has installed a new switched network as it prepares to embark on an aggressive Web strategy.
In a report prepared by Melbourne consultancy Ausmosys, it was recommended the zoo standardise on software and hardware between its three sites and build a network infrastructure capable of carrying it into the future. Working with cabling and network partner Marrtech, the zoo's IT manager, Tony Jacock, determined that a 100Mbps fibre network, linked via routers to the other two sites, represented the best solution.
The zoo approached 3Com for a sponsorship deal, who accepted, supplying the zoo with seven CoreBuilder switches and four SuperStack hubs.
Implementation of the network has been carried out by Marrtech and Jaycock over the last six months and it was scheduled to be completed this month.
The network will form the backbone of the zoo's Web strategy. Over the next year, they hope to link live video feeds of animals to Web pages, establish online sponsorship and a souvenir outlet.
