TREND Networks enhances SignalTEK 10G with user-friendly updates

TREND Networks, a provider of network testing equipment, has recently announced a significant update to its SignalTEK 10G Network Throughput Tester and Cable Qualifier. The tool has been equipped with a host of new features designed to simplify operation, extend functionality, and considerably elevate the user's experience.

"As technology evolves, so do the challenges faced by network technicians," explains Dan Barrera, Director of Product Innovation for TREND Networks. "Our latest enhancements to SignalTEK 10G underscore our dedication to simplifying complex testing processes, ensuring that users, regardless of experience, can achieve precise and dependable results in today's demanding network environments."

The SignalTEK 10G now offers a new Basic Operation mode that delivers intuitive options to users. This facility streamlines Cable and Network Qualification testing by just requiring the user to select between copper and fibre and to specify the speed they wish to qualify. Furthermore, the 10G tester now supports data transmission testing at 1G and 10G using a single 10G SFP+ module, reducing the need for separate SFP modules for varying fibre speeds.

The updated version of SignalTEK 10G has also included fibre length and dB Loss measurement, eliminating the need for an expensive Optical Loss Test Set (OLTS). "This new feature sets a fresh standard for qualification testers, enabling fibre qualification based on data transmission, cable attenuation, and cable length," adds Barrera.

The refreshed interface management on SignalTEK 10G aims to make the user experience even more seamless. Technicians can now easily toggle the active interfaces in the remote handset without needing to remove the fibre SFP, preventing potential loss of the module. This preference is also retained even after a reboot of the system.

Recognition of the challenges around configuration of testers to operate on Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) led to the integration of VLAN detection and Top 10 VLAN bandwidth monitoring into SignalTEK 10G. "Simply plug into a network port and active VLAN numbers and broadcast traffic will be displayed," says Barrera, highlighting how tapping on a VLAN not only configures the main handset but also leads to an automatic Smart configuration of the remote.

Other noteworthy new features include the ability to detect open/short cables with distance-to-fault on the Ethernet testing port and the display of incoming power to the handset SFP modules when testing fibre. In addition, SignalTEK 10G now supports enhanced RJ45 SFP modules, offers improved PoE load test accuracy, and delivers faster onboard PDF report generation.

The selection of latest upgrades positions the SignalTEK 10G as an even more powerful tool for network technicians, bolstering TREND Networks' 'Depend On Us' commitment. Barrera concludes, "The testers enhanced capabilities aim to empower technicians, streamline operations, and ensure maximum network performance."