Fluke Networks announces LinkIQ cable and network tester

Fluke Networks announced the LinkIQ Cable+Network tester, which combines switch diagnostics with the company’s cable measurement technology. The product provides simple pass/fail test reports using the company’s LinkWare software. It can also verify the performance of switches, including those that provide Power over Ethernet, said a release from the company.

“New technologies such as 10 Gb/s Ethernet and expanded Power over Ethernet are at the core of today’s networks,” stated Walter Hock, VP of Product for Fluke.  “Whether it’s an installer who needs to ensure error-free operation and document their work or a troubleshooter supporting advanced devices, they both need a tool that combines support for today’s advanced technologies with an ease of use that saves time and a price that means it can be widely deployed.”

The LinkIQ is based on a single-test approach that automatically provides the appropriate measurements based on what’s at the other end of the cable.  For an open cable, it shows the length and pairing.  If it’s terminated with the supplied remote, the test result shows the maximum data rate the cable can support – up to 10 Gb/s.  If the cable is connected to a switch port, LinkIQ will show the name of the switch plus the port name, speed, and duplex.  If PoE is advertised, it will display the power and class (up to 90 W or Class 8) and then load the switch to verify the power can be delivered.

The LinkIQ uses LinkWare PC, Fluke Networks’ reporting software which supports a variety of testers going back 20 years and is the industry’s de facto standard reporting solution with tens of thousands of active users. The simplest way to manage report data is with a free copy of LinkWare. The results from a wide variety of Fluke products can be stored and accessed, or PDF reports may be generated using the software.