klefstad@ux1.cso.uiuc.edu (Sue Klefstad) (01/17/91)
I am checking out purchasing a LAN cable scanner. I've had hands-on experience only with the 3Com LanScanner. This seems to be a nice scanner with coax and twisted pair inputs. It tests for noise and dc loop resistance, as well as the TDR for opens, shorts, and cable lengths. The TDR can be put into a manual mode to scan out along lengths of the cable. This unit sells for about $900. Has anyone had experience with this or other cable scanners? Are there units with more capability that are worth the extra money? Any input would be appreciated. -- -- Sue -- ========================================================================= Sue Klefstad s-klefstad@uiuc.edu
ronlowe@hpctdlb.HP.COM (Ron Lowe) (01/23/91)
Yes, Microtest in Phoenix has a line of hand held tdrs with various features and prices from 1k to 2.5k. They are considered by some sources as the best in the industry. They are good enough that HP has signed an OEM contract and will announce this at COMNET next week in Wash,D.C. They will carry the HP label and are backed by HP sales and service.
djdove@hprnd.rose.hp.com (Dan Dove) (01/25/91)
Sue, If you are looking for an INSTRUMENT grade product that will allow you to certify cable systems for 10-base-T compliance, HP also has the Wiretest Instrument for ~$5700. This instrument was designed primarily for LAN integrators or building cable installers so they could certify the wiring to meet specifications on: 1) Continuity 2) Signal Attenuation 3) Near End Crosstalk Attenuation 4) Burst Noise Please note that the instrument has been designed to significantly reduce test/certification time by providing the ability to test the above parameters with only a single termination/loopback hood and it will certify up to 12 10-base-T ports at a time. It also measures multiple-disturber crosstalk for cable systems that use bundled cables. Hope this information is useful. Dan