Combined cable and network tester launched

The Fluke LinkIQ is available from RS Components.

The Fluke LinkIQ cable tester.

RS Components is now stocking LinkIQ Cable+Network: a new advanced cable and network tester from Fluke Networks, said to be ideal for installers and maintenance technicians.

“A highly cost effective and time saving unit, the LinkIQ cable and network tester combines the capabilities of two devices with advanced switch diagnostics and state-of-the-art cable measurement technology to provide simplified network troubleshooting when building, adding to or maintaining networks,” states RS Components.

Fast-evolving technologies

Networks are seeing the increasing use of new and fast-evolving technologies, such as 10-Gbit/s Ethernet and Power over Ethernet (PoE). The Fluke unit can provide users with a high level of confidence to quickly troubleshoot cabling and/or connect PoE devices to networks – and at a price that means the unit can be widely deployed across enterprises.

The unit’s cable performance ability provides frequency-based measurement and provides results showing the maximum data rate the cable can support, up to a maximum of 10-Gbit/s. It also displays information on the cable distance and, if connected, details of the switch port, including its name, VLAN status, speed and duplex. For PoE verification, the unit will display the PoE class (up to Class 8) and can perform a load test from the connected switch.

Multiple appeal

In addition to system integrators that move, add or change network systems, and support technicians that keep the network up-and-running, the LinkIQ is described as “ideally suited to installers who need to ensure cable validation, error-free operation and documentation, which can be easily provided via the management of reports via the LinkWare PC software”.