Agilent Technologies’ New Software Enables Test across AC-Coupled Patch Panels, Power-over-Ethernet Mid-Span Devices

Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) today announced a new version of software for its handheld LAN cable tester, WireScope Pro. The new software ensures proper certification of structured cabling in the presence of Power over Ethernet (PoE) mid-span devices and AC coupled patch-panels.

PoE technology extends the use of LAN cables from pure Ethernet connectivity to power supply. The continuous deployment of new wireless access points, IP phones and IP-based security cameras demands less complex powering schemes. PoE provides central power supply to networked devices through the LAN cable, replacing dozens of individual power adapters. PoE mid-span sources make it possible to connect new PoE-powered network devices to legacy Ethernet switches with no PoE support.

PoE mid-span cabling configurations are generally AC-coupled so that DC power is applied in the direction toward networked devices but not toward the legacy switch ports. Agilent’s new WireScope Pro tests AC-coupled cabling configurations across PoE mid-spans or across PoE patch-panels.

With a frequency range of up to 1 GHz, Agilent’s WireScope Pro is capable of testing all common cable standards, even beyond the ISO/IEC Class F limit of 600 MHz. Customers can stretch investments by purchasing a Category 6/Class E product kit first, and upgrade later through a software license when they have a Category 6A or Class EA or F installation project.

“Enterprises are increasingly deploying Power over Ethernet solutions,” said Alois Hauk, vice president and general manager of Agilent’s Photonics and Network Test Division. “With the new software version 2.5, WireScope Pro customers are now optimally equipped to certify PoE LAN cabling infrastructure, a rapidly growing business segment.”

U.S. Pricing and Availability

The Agilent WireScope Pro version 2.5 software is available today. Registered users can download the software update free of charge from the N2640A WireScope Pro technical support area at www.agilent.com/find/wirescope.