T&M Fluke Networks LinkRunner AT: Network Auto Tester Overview
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This article explores LAN test equipment and its benefits, specifically focusing on network auto testers. We’ll be taking a look at the LinkRunner AT (LRAT-2000) from Fluke Networks, a tool designed for network troubleshooting. Let’s dive into the features of this network auto tester from Fluke Networks.
Features of the Fluke Networks LRAT-2000
The LinkRunner AT (LRAT-2000) offers a range of functionalities to help diagnose and resolve network issues. These include:
- Cable Length Measurement: Determines the length of network cables.
- Cable Fault Location and Type: Pinpoints the location of cable faults and identifies the type of fault present.
- Ethernet Speed Measurement: Measures Ethernet speeds across various LAN configurations.
- Optical Fiber Testing: Tests the functionality of optical fiber connections.
- Connectivity Tests (DHCP, DNS, Gateway): Verifies connectivity to DHCP servers, DNS servers, and gateway devices.
- Ping and TCP Port Connectivity Tests: Performs ping tests and TCP port connectivity tests.
- Power Over Ethernet (PoE) Tests: Evaluates Power over Ethernet functionality.
- Copper and Twisted Pair Connectivity Tests: Checks the integrity of copper and twisted pair connections.
Specifications of the LRAT-2000 from Fluke Corporation
The following table details the specifications of the LRAT-2000 network auto tester:
| Specification | LRAT-2000 |
|---|---|
| Support Copper Medium Access | RJ45, 10Base-T, 10Base-Tx, 1000Base-T, PoE supported |
| Fiber Medium Access | SFP port (100Base-Fx, 1000Base-Lx/Sx/Zx) |
| Tone generator | Supports digital tone (500KHz) and analog tones (400 Hz, 1KHz) |
| Indicators | LEDs are used to indicate link and Rx/Tx indications |
| Host interface port | USB 5 pin (min-B) |
| LinkRunner Software | Works on all Windows - Vista, XP, 7, 8 versions |
| IPV6 support | It is available in LRAT-2000 version |
Benefits of LAN Test Equipments
Following are some of the advantages of LAN test equipments.
- Helps identify bottlenecks, latency issues, and dropped packets, ensuring optimal network speed and stability.
- Detects faults like short circuits, open connections, and cable miswiring, reducing downtime and troubleshooting efforts.
- Monitors data flow, bandwidth usage, and network congestion, allowing efficient resource allocation and performance optimization.
- Identifies unauthorized access, security breaches, and vulnerabilities, ensuring protection against cyber threats and compliance with security protocols.
- Enables proactive diagnostics and preventive maintenance, minimizing costly network failures and service disruptions.
Conclusion
LAN test equipment is an essential tool for network engineers and IT professionals, ensuring high performance, security, and reliability of wired and wireless networks. By diagnosing issues early, optimizing bandwidth, and preventing network failures, it plays a crucial role in maintaining efficient and secure communication infrastructures across various industries.
