MCS Networking

Any computer on your network can operate the MCS using a web browser such as Microsoft Internet Explorer ^TM or Netscape ^TM. We designed the web interface with zero footprint on your computers to virtually eliminate desktop support issues. No special software is needed.

The network architecture is based on a dual-interface web server installed at your site. Cannon eliminates many of the performance bottlenecks and support headaches by using the dedicated server in your network. You will access your data at 10/100 Ethernet speeds on your LAN.

Overall Network Security is insured by several concurrent methods: MCS server security, Firewall controls with inspection filtering, military grade data encryption, and active monitoring. Cannon uses multiple levels of security with industry leading software.

Server support is accomplished over dedicated private line or encrypted internet connection (VPN). This method is economical, as it requires only enough bandwidth for one administrator connection and backups. You will stay online and running even if a communication line is temporarily down. We continuously monitor the server and network connection from our data center using Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) for up/down/alarm/status and Remote Monitoring Protocol version 2 (RMON-II) for in-depth traffic analysis of all twenty-one (21) communication layers to promote maximum system availability.

As with any manufacturing software system of the complexity and size of MCS, the "backend" processing is critical and is performed in Cannon's 10,000 square foot data center. Our powerful IBM machines perform this backend processing in a fraction of the time required on midrange or smaller computers.

The MCS database resulting from the backend processing and all reporting is then sent over the encrypted communications network to your inhouse local area network (LAN). You interactively execute the MCS created Manufacturing Plan and input new data.

You may ask why Cannon does the backend processing instead of you doing it in-house?

First, we have buried the complexities inherent in this type of software in the MCS computer programs to make your interface with the system as simple as operating the cruise control on your car.

Second, Cannon has found that it may take IT personnel 5 to 10 years to understand the relationship of complex program code in one MCS Module to the code in another MCS Module.

Third, Cannon's monitoring of backend processing results can point out that someone may not be following system procedures.

Forth, we commit to helping you achieve substantial benefits from the MCS and we must monitor activity to help you obtain such benefits.

Fifth, you do not have to pay millions of dollars on the front end for software purchase, but instead make budgeted monthly rental payments as you use the MCS.