Cable certification and link verification in one

Fluke Networks has introduced a new Network Service Module for its DTX CableAnalyzer series that makes it possible for the first time to verify and document link connectivity along with the cable certification, all with a single instrument.

The new module enables technicians to follow industry best practices that recommend verifying the link connectivity after certifying each cabling link and documenting all test results in one report. This allows technicians to eliminate callbacks, reduce network downtime and expand services to end-users.

Successful technicians follow a three-step process for installing network cable and activating network service. The first step is certifying the cabling infrastructure to meet TIA/ISO Standards requirements. Next is to ensure that service can be activated by verifying network service availability and verifying link connectivity to the network. Last, all test results should be documented into one consolidated report. The DTX CableAnalyzer with the new Network Service Module is the only tester that can perform both cable certification and network verification tests and produce one report with all results.

"Technicians can offer their customers improved service by providing a single report that documents network service availability, link connectivity and cable certification test results," said Hugo Draye, Fluke Networks` Marketing Manager for Certification Products. "They can provide clear evidence that the job was done right - according to standards and best practices."

By following industry best practices, technicians can provide the highest level of assurance to their customers. Technicians can avoid callbacks while lowering network downtime. They will also have more time to focus on priority projects.

"The ability to document certification and connectivity in a single report will be useful for technicians so they can demonstrate to their customers that they not only certified link performance but have also turned up the service," said Draye. The new module will also allow technicians to improve the quality of their historical documentation."

The Network Service Module pulls an IP address from the DHCP server, then pings the default router and DNS server. It also makes it possible for the technician to assign IP addresses manually. The Network Service Module determines the data rate and network technology, including 10Mb/s, 100Mb/s and 1Gb/s Ethernet and half or full duplex. The tester also determines the Ethernet utilisation of the link under test as a percentage of available bandwidth. The tester also verifies proper connectivity by blinking the switch or hub port activity light of the port where the link is connected.

The Network Service Module also verifies the presence of Power Supply Equipment (PSE) on a link and tests the delivery of proper voltage levels for powered devices for Power over Ethernet (PoE) applications such as voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP), network cameras and wireless access points. The Network Service Module verifies that the PSE delivers power compliant with alternative A or B in the IEEE 802.3af standard. The Network Service Module can also act as a PSE and supply up to 30 mA at 48 VDC to power small devices.

The DTX CableAnalyzer provides a 9-second Autotest, three times faster than conventional testers, for Cat 6 links that meet TIA-568-B certification requirements for structured cabling warranties. The DTX is the only independently verified TIA Accuracy Level IV tester to meet ISO Level IV and proposed TIA Level IIIe Accuracy requirements. The DTX`s 900MHz frequency range makes it capable of meeting future applications such as 10 Gigabit Ethernet, Class F, and CATV. Resident fibre modules make it possible to switch between copper and fibre with the push of a button.

The Network Service Module for Fluke Networks` DTX CableAnalyzer is available for immediate delivery through Fluke Networks` distributors and sales partners worldwide.