News

Fluke Networks Transforms Copper Certification Tool into an OTDR (18/7/2007)

Cable installers save money and win new business using the new DTX Compact OTDR Module

Fluke Networks has again responded to customer needs by introducing the new DTX Compact OTDR for its DTX CableAnalyzer. The DTX Compact OTDR is a full-featured Optical Time Domain Reflectometer module that snaps onto any DTX CableAnalyzer. It adds Extended fiber certification to the portfolio of copper and fiber test capabilities that make the DTX the market leader.

DTX owners can expand into the fiber installation business by adding the DTX Compact OTDR to their DTX CableAnalyzer. They will also enjoy improved profitability because the need for specialized tools is reduced and fewer subcontracts to fiber specialists will be required.

"With Fluke Networks' new DTX Compact OTDR it's now possible for us to test and certify mixed media jobs with a single, affordable tool that doesn't require our entire staff to be re-trained," said Eric Varton, Director of Business Development, of Tec-Works Inc., Kirkland, WA. "This tool is certain to re-define the use of OTDR for premise cable testing, especially for smaller contractors."

The DTX Compact OTDR shoots and analyzes traces on singlemode and multimode fiber at four wavelengths. This Extended (also called "Tier 2") fiber certification complements the DTX CableAnalyzer's ability to perform Basic (also called "Tier 1") fiber certification. With Basic and Extended fiber certification, the DTX CableAnalyzer is the only test platform that completely certifies fiber and copper cabling to all standards.

"We want to ensure that our fiber installations will support both current and future applications for our clients," said Tom Jordal, President of Skyline Communications in Mukilteo, Washington. "With the DTX CableAnalyzer, we can now assure our customers that the fiber cabling installation is rock-solid with Basic and Extended certification. When we certify the performance of every connector and splice, we know that the job meets our high quality standards and callbacks should be few and far between."

The DTX Compact OTDR lets installers who are familiar with copper certification easily learn to perform Extended fiber certification. Users see the familiar DTX interface, test commands, stored setup values and expert diagnostics. This shortens the learning curve and extends the value of every DTX.

The DTX CableAnalyzer Series is the world's most widely used cable certification tool. Owners have found increasing use for their DTX CableAnalyzers with the introduction of new test modules, including coax, patch cord, the Network Service Module and 10 Gigabit Alien crosstalk kit. The new DTX Compact OTDR continues to make the DTX CableAnalyzer a platform that addresses growing customer needs.

Product availability

The new DTX OTDR Module is available for immediate delivery through Fluke Networks sales partners worldwide, along with the DTX CableAnalyzer and a range of test and troubleshooting accessories.

www.flukenetworks.com