What is Permanent Link and Channel Testing
Channel test and permanent link test are both important components of Fluke network cable testing, which are necessary tests in the acceptance of comprehensive cabling engineering. They can comprehensively evaluate the quality of network cables for different scenarios, ensuring the reliability and performance of network and communication systems.
Channel Test vs Permanent Link
Channel Test
Channel refers to the transmission channel that connects two application devices end-to-end, including device patch cords and workspace user patch cords. Therefore, channel test includes the connection between the two ends of the network cable and the device or patch panel. In addition to testing the performance of the network cable, the quality of the connection between cable and device will also be tested. It simulates the complete signal transmission link of Ethernet cables during actual use, providing a more comprehensive evaluation of transmission quality of the entire network link and providing a valuable basis for network optimization.
Permanent Link Test
Permanent link is a transmission line between information points and distribution equipment, excluding user patch cords and device patch cords. In other words, a permanent link is a test of the transmission performance of the network cable itself, and does not include the connection between the two ends and the equipment. Permanent link test can comprehensively evaluate the transmission quality of the network cable itself, providing reliable data support for network deployment and maintenance. This helps ensure that the network cable meets application requirements and the reliability and stability of the network system.
Difference Between Channel Test and Permanent Link
Test Scope
Permanent link test only focuses on the performance of network cable itself. Channel test includes the connection between the two ends of the network cable and the device or patch panel.
Test Length
Maximum length for channel test is 100m, while the maximum length for permanent link testing is 90m.
Test Purpose
Channel test focuses on whether the transmission performance of the entire network link meets application requirements. Permanent link testing focuses on testing the quality of the network cable itself.
Test Environment
Channel testing simulates the situation of network cables in actual usage environments. While the permanent link test simulates the situation of network cable in the installation environment.
Test Parameter
Permanent link testing mainly focuses on parameters such as connectivity, length, attenuation, and crosstalk. Channel testing also evaluates parameters such as near end crosstalk and far end crosstalk.
Conclusion
The two testing methods have different focuses. Permanent link test focuses on the performance quality of the network cable itself, while channel test evaluates performance from the perspective of the overall network link. In the process of network construction or maintenance, both types of testing are very important. Combining them can comprehensively evaluate the deployment quality and operational performance of the network system, ensuring that the reliability and performance of the network reach the expected level.
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