Ideal SignalTEK II Cable and Network Qualifier

Using a full cable certifier isn't always the most efficient choice when confirming if network cabling has been installed correctly, especially in residential, small business and even industrial Ethernet environments that don't require certification to EIA/TIA or ISO/IEC standards.

In those cases, the new IDEAL SignalTEK II multifunctional handheld cable and network qualifier is a cost-effective alternative to certifiers. Perfect for small- to medium-sized LANs, SignalTEK II will validate that copper or fiber cabling is capable of supporting bandwidth-heavy Voice, Data, Video (VDV) and IP-based video surveillance applications over 10/100 Megabit or Gigabit Ethernet. SignalTEK II then generates documentation verifying network connectivity and job completion to initiate customer payment.

"Being a multifunctional device for both fiber and copper, the SignalTEK II offers major cost savings, as it eliminates the need to purchase separate testers for different media," explained Dan Payerle, business unit manager of IDEAL Industries Networks. "SignalTEK II also troubleshoots throughput problems in existing installations so a separate transmission tester isn't required - presenting more savings."

Qualifies IEEE 802.3ab Gigabit Standard

SignalTEK II is targeted at data cabling installers, IT administrators, systems integrators and facilities managers who need to demonstrate that new and existing cabling installations meet performance and reliability expectations. A bi-directional "pass/fail" test of a network's links based on IEEE 802.3ab determines within seconds whether the installed cable can support higher bandwidth applications such as VoIP or Gigabit Ethernet without problems. Additional active network troubleshooting capabilities of PoE and PoE+ maximize return on investment.

Tests Across Switches and Hubs

Qualification and troubleshooting can conveniently be performed either through hubs or switches all the way to the server, streamlining qualification and maintenance troubleshooting.

Qualifies Bandwidth & Cabling Capacity

According to Payerle, one of the unique capabilities of SignalTEK II is that it can qualify and certify the correct installation of copper and fiber cabling to determine if it is capable of supporting VDV and CCTV applications: "This unique capability is further enhanced by enabling the operator to specify the load, number of PCs, VoIP phones or IP CCTV camera, on the network and SignalTEK II then generates the equivalent load to ensure the network's switch can handle the traffic without error."

Latest Testing Features for Modern Networks

With multiple network troubleshooting features including wiremap by pin with distance to fault, cable tracing and verifying Ethernet connectivity, SignalTEK II is a highly versatile and cost effective handheld tool. Capable of multiple performance testing, SignalTEK II can be operated rapidly and with minimal user training giving the installer or network administrator a high level of confidence and accuracy not found in other testers in the price range.

SignalTEK II simplifies cable installations through its intuitive controls, auto test functions, a virtual keyboard and a 2.8" backlit color screen. Novices will be able to fully operate SignalTEK II within minutes of removing it from the box. The interface minimizes training requirements while improving productivity in the field because routine test can be completed in less time. Additionally, SignalTEK II is IPv6 and PoE+ compatible, ensuring a future-proof investment.

Rugged and Robust Design

For all its advanced technologies, SignalTEK II is not a fragile instrument. Its rubber-molded housing can withstand drops, making it perfect for the installer whose workplace requires a rugged and robust tool. Plus, when RJ45 connections are damaged or become worn due to spark erosion, an RJ45 insert can be exchanged in the field to eliminate costly downtime, as there is no need to return the unit to an IDEAL service center.

http://www.idealindustries.com/products/datacomm/testers/signaltek2.jsp