Features
The WireMap 620 was created to greatly simplify the work of installers,
technicians and administrators who support 10/100 Mbit ethernet LANs. The 620
is affordable, easy-to-use and its unique set of features makes it a valuable
addition to everyone’s tool kit. In addition to testing your LAN cables for correct
termination, the 620 will display link and traffic information and can act as a toner
for cable identification.
The 620 supports link & traffic testing for 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX networks
and will test continuity of any UTP, STP, or FTP cable using RJ-45 connectors. It
was designed primarily for ethernet systems using CAT5, CAT5e and CAT6 cables
but can also be used to check telco and Token Ring cables.
Operation
All of the WireMap’s functions are automatic. Simply press the ON/OFF button on
the front panel to activate the 620 and begin testing. If you see a LOW BATTERY
message at any time, then simply replace the 9-volt alkaline battery in the rear of
the main unit.
LINK & TRAFFIC checks are performed continuously. The WireMap will try to
establish link with any ethernet hub or switch. The 620 supports 10 Mbit, 100
Mbit and auto-negotiation. If a link partner is detected, the tester will display
information about the speed and duplex status of the link and will then display the
relative traffic load in the form of a bar graph. If you connect to a switch port, you
will usually see only broadcast traffic since the network would not be addressing
any data to the tester itself.
Note:
“Ambiguous duplex” is a problem that arises from the fact that the duplex
setting of a non-auto port cannot be known by the link partner. The WireMap will
clearly indicate whether a port is auto-negotiating or not.
Note:
The WireMap 620 expects to be connected to a hub or a switch and will
only get link with a NIC card in a computer if you use a “cross over” cable.
WIREMAPS are performed continuously if the 620’s remote unit is seen at the
other end of the cable. In this mode, the tester will first check for shorts, then
opens, then check for correct wiring sequence and finally will check for the
presence of split pairs. The results of these tests are displayed continuously on
the LCD as long as the remote unit is connected. Good “straight through” and
“cross over” ethernet cables are identified for you in order to save time. Only
ethernet cables with no other faults will be tested for split pairs.
