ᐅ Testing / Measuring Network Cabling

Created on: 9 May 2017 16:09
H
Hendrik007
Hello everyone,
the network installation I commissioned includes a double socket in every room. These all connect to a patch panel in the utility room. What is the easiest way to test the sockets and cables for functionality and correct data rate with the least financial and time effort?

Best regards
Mycraft9 May 2017 18:07
Nothing, they are only suitable for spot measurements...
K
Knallkörper
9 May 2017 18:17
Have it measured according to Cat6 standards.
H
Hendrik007
11 May 2017 09:22
Knallkörper schrieb:
Have it tested, but according to Cat6 standards.

Is there a difference in testing between Cat5 and Cat6?
C
Caspar2020
11 May 2017 09:29
Yes. For me, testing means verifying whether the installed cable can actually handle the required performance, not just confirming that there is an electrical connection.

10/100 megabit or up to 100 MHz
10 gigabit Ethernet with 250 MHz

Additionally, Cat5 (100M) only requires 4 of the 8 wires.
Kaspatoo13 May 2017 14:11
You only need two PCs or laptops using basic equipment.

One of them provides a large file via FTP (for example, 100GB (110 US tons) in size, but NOT a ZIP file—it must be a single real file. You might need to "generate" a file; you can look up how to do this).

The other one downloads this file (important: do NOT use the internet for this).

A counter-test is also important, preferably with a direct connection between the two PCs. This way, you have a reference to see how data transfer performs in the best-case scenario (note that a crossover cable is needed or a switch/router must be used in between).

There are also free client tools available that make the process easier (search online).

A physical measurement of whether the full MHz are reached is not visible this way. Additionally, PC components (Ethernet interface or slow CPU/hard drive) can of course affect the measurement result (which is why the reference test is useful).
D
DNL
14 May 2017 02:26
Ftp? You can do better with iperf.
Crossover cable? You haven’t needed one for years...