In my April 1995 column (page 42), in answer to a question on Level 1 vs. Level 2 accuracy in LAN cable testers, I stated that "none of the analog testers currently in production will meet Level 2, and some may not meet Level 1." My reference was to LAN cable testers commercially available and in use by installers at the time I wrote that answer. This was in early winter, when all the LAN cable testers in use were based on analog technology. In recent months, several manufacturers of LAN cable testers have introduced products and product upgrades they claim will meet the Level 2 accuracy criteria. You may have seen these referred to as second-generation LAN cable testers.
This is a complex area where products, technologies and standards change rapidly. Before purchasing a LAN cable tester, I caution you to critically evaluate all product claims. Until TSB-67 is published, I urge you to request a written guarantee from the manufacturer that the LAN cable tester you are buying will meet the accuracy level claimed, as defined in TSB-67 when the document is published, or that they will upgrade the device without additional cost to you.
Donna Ballast is a communications analyst at the
University of Texas at Austin and a BICSI RCDD. Questions can be sent to her at Cabling Installation & Maintenance or at PO Drawer 7580, University of Texas, Austin, TX 78713. Phone (512) 471-0112, fax (512) 471-8883 Internet address: ballast@ utexas.edu.