The certification process which proves that new cabling is correctly installed and up to TIA and ISO specifications can be the most important step in many commercial network installation projects.
Three types of tests are performed to establish a network’s compliance to standards. Cables are proven to be correctly connected by way of a verification test. Existing cable is submitted to qualification testing to ensure that it can support the network’s speed and technology requirements. Finally, a certification test makes certain whether the cabling is compliant with the TIA and ISO.
For these requirements to be met, it is very important for the network installer to possess a reliable test instrument that can take a wide variety of measurements; and then compare the results to industry standards. There are several important traits that an effective network-cable testing tool should possess; and the first of these is speed. The testing speed of an instrument is crucial because it can greatly affect labor costs for the installation. When many cables require testing, a time difference of mere seconds per cable can affect the final bill by hundreds — or even thousands — of dollars.
It should also go without saying that accuracy of measurement in a testing instrument is incredibly important.
Lastly, as far as characteristics of network testing equipment go, versatility is also key. Contract installers are typically required to troubleshoot a wide array of both single and multi-mode fiber optic and copper cabling, as well as run tests on everything from the channel to the permanent link. A network testing job’s efficiency depends most upon whether the installer is using a versatile tester that can handle all possible configurations.
While speed, accuracy and versatility are the three major attributes to look for, there are a few other features which are also desirable in a network testing instrument. A tester should be able to store test results; and generate the reports which lead to network certification. This feature is an asset not only to the client, whose reports and certification can be completed in a timely manner, but to the installation contractor as well, since it ensures the successful completion of a job —and therefore payment for it.
Believe it or not, a making-or-breaking aspect of network testing instruments can be the manufacturers themselves. No matter how good the instrument, a glitch in a network testing project can always occur. If that should happen, an installer should be confident that the maker of the test instrument can be relied on for prompt and knowledgeable product support.
When deciding on which network testing instrument to use, always remember to keep in mind not only obvious features like speed, accuracy and versatility, but issues such as report generation, technical support and product warranty. CableOrganizer.com carries an extensive line of network testing equipment, which come with both seller support and a 100 percent money-back guarantee. Carefully considering your testing product can help ensure that you’ll get the job done right, every time.
