I am searching for a networkcable analyser for CAT5e to CAT6 STP cables, 100Mbit/s and 1Gbit/s speeds. We are making the connectors ourselfes and it comes to problems from time to time and I need an analyser which can measure Q (and other important parameters) where I just have to plug in the RJ45 connectors. The two ends are about 10 meters apart from each other. Plus points for a batterie operated device, but it's not a must have. Up until now, I made the measurement with wireshark and a stress test and had a look for retransmission and so on, but I am not interested in a post problem analysis.
1 Answer
Fluke/NetAlly - $400 - $3000
Fluke's units are considered the gold standard, particularly the LinkRunner, LinkSprinter, and CableIQ. However, they're also extremely expensive, with prices ranging from ~$400 for the LinkSprinter 300 to ~$3000 for the LinkRunner G2. Used units are also a good option if you don't want to pay quite the price; their solid construction means buying used is a perfectly good option.
Pocketethernet - $180
If you don't want to drop quite that much cash, the Pocketethernet is a solid unit that, when connected to a phone, provides much the same features for €167.23. Their app isn't the most polished, but hey, even the pricy units aren't too pretty, and it works quite well.
NF-308 - $40
If you really don't want to spend too much money, FS offers a basic unit that can do the job, as long as you don't need to much from it. For some reason, a rebrand of the same unit appears to be offered by Monoprice for slightly less than FS sells it, as the "Monoprice Professional Coaxial, RJ-45, RJ-11/12, BNC, and USB Multifunction Tester with LCD Display".
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Ok, I just had a look at the Pocketethernet device and I see TDR and BER measurement. From what I've seen in my measurements is that TDR (At least the inbuild TDR of D-Link DGS1510 switches) is not enough to see the error if, for example a cable is not fully connected in the RJ45 connector. Have you made any experience with this device? Currently I see the Fluke DSX devices for 7000 and more. Any experience with the IDEAL LanTek III?– EggiJan 14, 2020 at 7:20
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Unfortunately not, this is based of the advice of my friends and the networking community.– JMY1000 ♦Jan 14, 2020 at 7:41