Ideal Networks recently announced the launch of its SignalTEK 10G, billed as a handheld Ethernet tester "designed to measure the maximum bandwidth available on networks, identify bottlenecks and find ways to increase bandwidth without the need to replace expensive data cabling."
As noted by Ideal Networks:
There is ever-increasing demand on LAN networks from bandwidth hungry services, such as video streaming, video conferencing, CCTV cameras and Wi-Fi access points. This extra pressure on networks can lead to expensive downtime and lost productivity but replacing all cabling to improve bandwidth is cost-prohibitive for many organizations.
“There are 111 billion meters of Cat 5e/Cat6 cabling installed globally that is limited to 1 Gb/s bandwidth speeds due to the current switches deployed,” observes Tim Widdershoven, marketing director for Ideal Networks. "In the past there was no simple way to check the maximum bandwidth that existing cabling would support if you upgraded to multi-gigabit switches delivering 2.5, 5 or 10 Gb/s speeds. SignalTEK 10G solves that problem, enabling you to prove the system will support the bandwidth required before you make an expensive investment."
As explained by the manufacturer, "By simulating actual network traffic, SignalTEK 10G enables users to test, troubleshoot and document network and data cable performance up to 10 Gigabit Ethernet standards. With a max throughput test, the tester verifies what the maximum error-free bandwidth the cabling or infrastructure can support, and establishes what hardware or applications would work on an existing link. This saves significant time and cost compared to replacing data cabling."
“SignalTEK 10G is a feature-rich tool for data cable installers, systems integrators, IT enterprises and AV installers alike,” continues Ideal's Widdershoven. “As well as providing accurate 10G transmission testing, SignalTEK 10G can also be used as a wiremapper, PoE (Power over Ethernet) tester, and for troubleshooting and maintenance of active and passive copper and fiber networks.”
The tester provides features which eliminate guesswork when installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting where PoE is deployed up to 90W (PoE++), as maximum power can be measured accurately, and installations can be verified to IEEE standards.
The SignalTEK 10G tester also integrates a range of diagnostic tools to support faster troubleshooting and reduce downtime. For instance, one feature of the SignalTEK 10G will log all network events over a 72-hour period to help diagnose intermittent connectivity issues faster, reducing hours onsite and trips to site.
“To maximize their investment, businesses can order SignalTEK 10G now, then upgrade and unlock additional features only as needed,” adds Widdershoven. “This is a future-proof tester, designed to meet your network needs today and tomorrow.”
Once an upgrade is installed, SignalTEK 10G can be used again to test and prove performance to international standards. With built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, the tester connects to the free Ideal AnyWARE Cloud test management system to generate professional reports for the client.
The SignalTEK 10GThe AnyWARE Cloud management system also allows for real-time collaboration between project managers and field technicians. Project managers can pre-configure jobs and tests in AnyWARE Cloud, eliminating potential mistakes and reducing the time taken to prepare reports for customers. As it is cloud-based, the application can be accessed from any location with an internet connection and web browser, making it an ideal solution for teams where members may be working from home, as noted by the company.
Further, via the software's TeamViewer Live Support feature, project managers can also connect from any location to the SignalTEK 10G on the jobsite to troubleshoot failed links, minimizing troubleshooting time and reducing call-backs, while limiting personal interaction. Access can also be granted to cable manufacturers and Ideal Networks technical Sspport to allow further troubleshooting if required.
The SignalTEK 10G is available to order now from Ideal Networks’ distributors or directly from Ideal Networks’ online shop. For more information, visit www.idealnetworks.net.