LinkIQ-IQ tests industrial Ethernet installation and maintenance
Fluke Networks has introduced the LinkIQ Cable+Network industrial Ethernet (LinkIQ-IE) tester combines advanced cable performance technology with features to solve network connectivity problems. It features a gesture-based colour touchscreen and supports use in 12 languages.
The LinkIQ-IE is designed to verify cable performance up to 10Gbits per second and solves network connectivity problems, identifying connected switch, port and VLAN data, optionally running targeted ‘ping’ tests, and confirming the presence and capacity of available PoE. The rise of the industrial IoT (IIoT) means that there is a growing need for tools delivering fast and effective troubleshooting. By combining Fluke Networks’ cable measurement technology and a range of network connectivity tests, the LinkIQ-IE speeds the discovery of network failures, said Fluke.
Around 70 per cent of all newly installed factory automation nodes employ industrial Ethernet. Installation technicians must be able to verify cabling performance to ensure network performance, they also need to ensure that the user’s traffic can reach its destination.
A large percentage of industrial Ethernet service calls result from cabling related issues. “Troubleshooting industrial Ethernet problems often involves the use of complex tools such as protocol analysers or trial and error approaches such as running bypass cable in the hope of solving the problem,” said Robert Luijten, training manager of Fluke. The LinkIQ-IE has been designed “to provide answers to key troubleshooting questions in seconds through an easy-to-use gesture-based interface, all at a price that puts it in the reach of factory maintenance teams,” said Luijten.
As well as data communications troubleshooting and a tool for maintenance engineers to eliminate cabling issues quickly, LinkIQ-IE can also indicate the transmission speed the cable is capable of handling. This differentiates the LinkIQ from other twisted pair testers, said Jaap Westeneng of Endress and Hauser, instrumentation specialists for industrial automation. “As a visitor to industrial settings to undertake troubleshooting, being able to compile a report via the industry-standard LinkWare PC Reporting Software is extremely valuable,” he added.
The LinkIQ-IE provides a single test function with results automatically displayed based on what the unit is connected to. The unit provides adapters for the most common industrial Ethernet connectors simplifying connection.
The LinkIQ includes network testing, for users to verify connectivity and response time to key network devices with one touch of the screen. LinkIQ-IE can be configured to perform IPv4 or v6 ping tests and will display the response time for four pings to a target device of the user’s choosing. The test results display the DNS and DHCP servers and the gateway router. LinkIQ-IE also displays the IP address of the nearest switch.
Cable performance tests up to 100Mbits per second can be specified for two-pair cables, widely used in industrial environments, while, with the open cable attached, the wire map and length of each pair is displayed.
It is supplied with a remote ID attached to the cable end with up to six additional remote ID units able to be purchased and connected to patch panels. The LinkIQ-IE can display the Remote ID number making it easy for technicians to determine where a link is going.
With a cable connected to a switch port, LinkIQ-IE will show the name of the switch plus the VLAN, port name, speed, and duplex. If PoE is advertised, it will display the power and class (up to 90W or Class 8) and then load the switch to verify the power can be delivered.
A new version of the LinkWare PC software is also available. This new version provides reports including the expanded network testing, allowing users to document their work.
