I am looking for an instrument that will certify a network to CAT 5e and 6 .... but I don't want to spend US$ 10,000

Renting would be ok.

Bright ideas for a source anyone?

Anyone heard of this outfit http://www.datacomtools.com/catalog/Test-um_Validator.htm a lot cheaper than Fluke etc, any good?

Edited September 25, 200817 yr by Crossy

Where are you building a Gigabyte network?

Around your house??

.....certify a network to CAT 5e and 6 .... but I don't want to spend US$ 10,000

Catching the install team breaking CAT 6 rules relating to bridges, radius on bends and power cables is the biggest problem - even more so under false floors and when the route takes them through raisers.

A good wireman won't be screwing up the punch down in the frame.

Renting would be ok. Bright ideas for a source anyone?

If you want to have the kit for fault finding and support, Fluke is very good but would require periodic calibration if you are really certifing/comissioning a new installation. With that in mind is it easier to contract out the testing? (If you are not going to be using the kit frequently.)

The other idea that occurs to me - if the project has an onsite support team - they might have the budget to buy support tools following on from the install - look to offer training with their kit - get them to buy the Fluke.

If a company won't rent you a Fluke device, it might be worth it to just have their tech come in for a day and do the certification. I think it'd be cheaper than buying a tool for a single use, assuming you don't need to certify many hundreds or thousands of runs.

Here are some lists of companies

http://www.eguide.co.th/TH/SEARCH/Telecomm...+%26+Services/1?

http://www.hotfrog.in.th/Products/Cable-Supplies/Bangkok