Softpanels
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Softpanels provide a similar interface to a physical router panel, allowing the user to select a subset of source and destinations and make routes between them. In Birch, Softpanels are supported across any device connected to the system, not limited to a single router. If there are Trunklines defined between the routing systems, then the Softpanel will allow a destination on one router to select a source from another router and, if able, will make the route across the defined Trunkline.
To add a new Softpanel, click the icon.
When adding a Softpanel, there are three types of panels you can create: Private, Shared and Kiosk.
Private softpanels are only accessible to the current user. Shared softpanels are available to any admin or full user in your organization and can be shared with specific restricted users. Kiosk softpanels can be made available with a public url and a simple password, allowing external access to the system without needed credentials. Kiosk panels are designed to be deployed to physical locations on a tablet, such as an iPad.
Softpanels do have some restrictions, depending on your subscription:
Subscription
Private
Shared
Kiosk
Basic
1 per user
None
None
Standard
Unlimited
4 per organization
4 per organization
Unlimited
Unlimited
Unlimited
Unlimited
When adding a Kiosk Softpanel there are some additional configuration options.
Once a Kisok panel is selected, Birch will automatically create a unique public address for this panel. It is highly recommended to create a simple password as well, as this panel will be available without Birch credentials.
Once created, you can always edit the Kiosk panel and regenerate the URL, if for some reason you need to change the address of the panel for security concerns.
Once a panel is created, you can add any source or destination from any device connected to your organization.
Simply select the Device from the dropdown. Choose if you would like to add a Destination or a Source, select the port from the dropdown and click Add. You can add as many sources or destinations as you would like on the panel.
Once added, you can move around the source or destination key to any location on the panel grid by dragging the key to the desired location.
You are able to select sources and destinations from different Devices and use trunking to make the route with a softpanel. However, you will only be able to execute routes if a trunkline is available and you do not have the option to specify which trunkline will be used. The Softpanel will by default be more cautious with trunklines and will not allow you to override an existing trunking connection to prevent an unintended route.
Once built, you can select any Destination and Source and click Take to make the route. Just like in the standard routing view, you can Lock the Destination or make Multi-level routes, if supported by your routing system.
With no Destination or Source selected, you can long-press the Take key to active Auto-Take mode. When in Auto-Take mode, a route will be made as soon as a Destination and Source are selected, without having to manually click Take each time. To disable, long-press the Auto key again to return to the standard Take mode.
Each Softpanel can be represented by several screen sizes, with unique layouts for each. For example, the same Softpanel will render with only 2 columns on a phone, as opposed to the standard 8 column layout. You can modify the layout on each device and the panel will recall the appropriate layout depending on the size of the screen you are using. This works as well when resize your browser window to a smaller portion of the screen.
Once you're happy with the layout, press the to save the Softpanel. You can edit the Softpanel at any time by pressing the button.
The Softpanel also supports fullscreen mode by clicking the logo in the upper left of the panel. Fullscreen mode allows for a simpler interface while using the panel in production.
