Ethernet analyser cuts testing costs

MetroScope includes a low-cost, Gigabit LinkReflector remote tester that lets carriers perform complete SLA testing with full control from one end of the link

Fluke Networks has released the MetroScope carrier Ethernet analyser. This new portable analysis and troubleshooting tool offers savings of up to 40% for service providers deploying carrier Ethernet services. MetroScope's cost savings are provided through a low-cost, Gigabit Link Reflector that allows end-to-end RFC 2544, jitter and bit-error-rate (BERT) testing without a second MetroScope at the far end of the link.
MetroScope includes a low-cost, Gigabit LinkReflector remote tester that lets carriers perform complete SLA testing with full control from one end of the link.

This offers carriers several testing alternatives.

Carriers can deploy multiple far-end devices on complex networks for a fraction of the cost of existing solutions.
They can leave reflectors at customer sites or points-of-presence (POPs), ready for testing when needed.

Alternatively, carriers can use the MetroScope as a centralised tester, deploying technicians with Link Reflectors.

In addition to working with the MetroScope to qualify links, the Link Reflector offers troubleshooting functionality for Ethernet links.

All of these testing alternatives offer improved test results while reducing costs.

'Fluke Networks helps carriers achieve two critical business needs: migrating from legacy to next generation services; and implementing process improvement solutions that improve productivity and lower operating costs ', said Ed Sztuka, Vice President for Fluke Networks' Communication Service Provider business.

'MetroScope helps with both'.

MetroScope lets carriers define custom tests to demonstrate compliance with service level agreements (SLAs) associated with new, differentiated service offerings.

MetroScope also conforms with testing standards, including RFC 2544.

By offering carriers a low-cost means of proving SLA and standards compliance, MetroScope addresses two of the biggest hurdles carriers face with carrier Ethernet deployment.

Experience in network testing applied to carrier Ethernet MetroScope takes advantage of more than a decade of Fluke Networks IP expertise to provide a battery of in-depth IP tests including traffic monitoring, VLAN discovery and monitoring, SNMP monitoring and TraceSwitch Route.

High-accuracy jitter measurements let carriers certify Ethernet links for VoIP and IPTV delivery.

MetroScope can easily be carried in one hand, but it is also designed with web-based remote control.

Used remotely, a technician at the customer site can consult with remote experts within the organisation and resolve complex problems.