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TEST & MEASUREMENT
on the certifier doesn’t necessarily mean the MPTL can
be tested. Depending on the certifier manufacturer, the
standard channel adapter may not test the plug, resulting in
a bad plug or termination that does not meet the required
performance going unnoticed.
The only way an MPTL can be properly and accurately
tested is with a Channel adapter that uses the specifically
centred socket required for certification of plugs. Some
certifiers require the user to purchase an expensive patch
cord test adapter or use a special test cord with the centred
socket to ensure proper accuracy.
Meeting the standards
If testing to TIA standards, installers must ensure they do
not exceed 90 meters/328 feet as otherwise the standards
require the test to fail. IEC standards report cable length
for information only so links exceeding 90 meters will not
necessarily fail. However, links longer than 90 meters may
fail tests for insertion loss or resistance.
Technicians must also bear in mind that not all field
installed RJ-45 plugs are rated to meet IEC/TIA component
specifications. Category 5e plugs are likely to pass
certification with little extra effort whereas Category 6
plugs should be verified to meet component performance
specifications and careful installation is required to ensure
they pass certification. Category 6A field terminated plugs
are relatively new to the market, and those that provide the
performance to pass certification are expensive.
As not all brands solve the problem in the same way,
testing solutions may change over time and cause
confusion. Therefore, when installing and certifying MPTL to
meet standards, installers must first check with their certifier
manufacturer to ensure the proper adapters or software is
being used. n
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