The product provides simple pass/fail test reports using the innovative LinkWare™ PC, the company's cabling test management software. It is also capable of verifying the performance of switches, including those that deliver Power over Ethernet (PoE).
"New technologies, such as 10 Gb/s Ethernet and Power over Ethernet, are at the heart of today's networks," said Walter Hock, Vice President of Products at Fluke. "Whether an installer who needs to ensure error-free operation and document their work, or a service technician working with advanced devices, they need a tool that combines compatibility with today's advanced technologies and time-saving ease of use, all at an affordable price for widespread deployment.".
single test
is based on a one-off test method that automatically provides relevant measurements depending on what's at the other end of the cable. If it's an open cable, it will display the length and pairing. If there's a remote control at the end of the cable, the test result will show the maximum data rate the cable can support, up to 10 Gbps. However, if the cable is connected to a switch port, LinkIQ will display the switch and port name, VLAN, speed, and duplex. If PoE power is indicated, it will display the power and class (up to 90W or Class 8) and then load the switch to verify that power can be supplied.
Easy Report Generation:
LinkIQ uses LinkWare™ PC, Fluke Networks' reporting software compatible with a wide range of testers up to 20 years old and the de facto industry-standard reporting solution with tens of thousands of active users. The easiest way to manage report data is with a free copy of LinkWare™. This software allows you to store, access, and generate PDF reports from a wide variety of Fluke products.
Specific comments:
“LinkIQ is professional, intuitive, easy to use, and delivers results quickly. The device has an easy-to-read display and provides an accurate summary of key information,” commented Russell Queenan of Thorntons Communications. “The real advantage of using LinkIQ turned out to be the ability to test the capabilities of the old CAT5 cabling that we hadn’t installed. This allowed me to advise the client on which switch to upgrade based on the results. I knew it would work well with 5G speeds, but if they were higher, the power outlets, cabling, and patch panels would need upgrading. LinkIQ’s note-taking and reporting features are extremely useful.”
Dual-purpose
Martin Whitefoot, project manager at Splice Group, stated: "We use LinkIQ in large installations to verify structured cabling from point to point, confirming it terminates at the correct ID or checking cabling speed. The LinkIQ tester is easy to use and does the job of the two devices our employees used to use."
Availability: The Fluke Networks LinkIQ cable and network tester can be purchased through distributors worldwide or directly from the website listed above.
