CASE STUDY
Additionally , multifunction testers leverage the same user interface making training an easier endeavour . Finally , understand that some multifunction test units are modular by design . This means that test functions can be upgraded over time and new test capabilities – both from a hardware and software perspective – can be upgraded to extend the usefulness of the tester over time .
Having the right toolset could save thousands of dollars from lost productivity from both the users themselves as well as those responsible for overseeing network infrastructure and DC support .
What should DCs understand about testing and troubleshooting within their Cable Plants ?
Given today ’ s competitive landscape , businesses must always be on the lookout for ways to improve DC performance and reliability . As legacy DC hardware and software gets swapped out with modern technologies with the goal of better application performance and stability , one must not forget about the impact this has on the existing DC copper and fiber plants .
It ’ s not uncommon , for example , for a brand-new technology to be implemented within a DC only to have it be plagued by connectivity issues , lower than expected speeds and other inconsistencies caused by cabling . Additionally , DC trends that leverage power over Ethernet ( PoE ) for various IoT purposes within a DC are also on the rise . Common examples include surveillance cameras , LAN-connected door controllers , temperature / humidity sensors and PoE lighting .
These additions are creating a much higher demand for PoE within the DC than ever before . Significant increases in the number of PoE connections can cause several unforeseen problems – especially when twisted-pair cable plants were not designed with PoE delivery in mind . The distribution of electricity over copper cables increases heat and electromagnetic interference that can impact individual cables as well as cross cable interference with other twisted-pair runs within a cable bundle , and power delivery through lowvoltage copper .
Keep in mind that there ’ s often more cabling in the DC compared to any other part of an organization ’ s network . It should also come as no surprise that the DC is the heart of every enterprise network . Thus , a great deal of testing and troubleshooting will take place in this demanding location .
Can you tell us about the need for documentation and reporting of connectivity and cabling performance be it copper or fiber ?
Previously , it was not uncommon for the cable contractor to install a cabling system , and not provide the test results to the network owner . However , more companies now require proof that tests were run to validate and certify the cabling , providing assurance to the endusers of the installation quality , and that the cabling can support intended smart building applications .
This documentation also protects the installer , who can return to the reports as a troubleshooting aid , should they be called back to the site to resolve an issue . The installer can see how the cable performed as they left it , verses how it is performing now .
There is the traditional twisted pair copper cable certification report , as well as fiber optic . From the installer ’ s perspective , if they were to provide a warranty or expect warranty support from the cable manufacturer , those printed reports are critical , and required by the cable manufacturer . The network owner can also refer to this report if end devices are not functioning correctly , by being able to review the performance of the cable , and that it passed certification testing at the time of install . If the network owner has the necessary test equipment with the ability to certify , they can test and compare to the most recent performance of the cable .
Beyond reporting on the cabling itself , during the implementation phase , having test equipment with the added ability to troubleshoot and attain printed reports for wired and wireless network connectivity and performance is invaluable for network owners to have at their fingertips , as the data , such as switch slot / port / VLAN or AP signal strength , is critical to support moves , adds and changes and troubleshooting within systems . p
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