Tool Solves Physical-Layer Network Troubles

Costly downtime can be eliminated, it's claimed, when using the company's MediaChecker, a handheld tool used to verify industrial networking applications. Performing a variety of physical-layer tests, analysis and measurement, the tool troubleshoots ControlNet, Data Highway+, DeviceNet, Ethernet and Remote I/O media installations on the factory floor.
The handheld unit tests the cable in question for fail points, displaying the precise distance to each. It also uncovers any split pairs in twisted cables and identifies connector ends that have been improperly wired. The unit also measures the overall length and termination value of the network.