Software helps installers beat MPTL testing challenges

“Certifying MPTL cabling isn’t for everybody,” says Dan Payerle Barrera, Global Product Manager for IDEAL Networks. “However, if you’re installing a high-performance cabling infrastructure using cat 6A cable for wireless access points, AV equipment and CCTV cameras, or an application anticipating high-bandwidth demand, it’s important to understand the challenges and requirements of certifying MPTLs.”

“The good news is that those who already have cat 6A Permanent Link and Channel Adapters for the IDEAL Networks LanTEK III cable certifier will only require a software update in order to be able to certify MPTL,” Dan continues.

The existing IDEAL Networks cat 6A Channel Adapter for the LanTEK III cable certifier already uses the approved “centred” jack that can be used to measure the performance of RJ45 plugs. Therefore, to equip the tester with the capability to test MPTL, users can simply download a free software upgrade from IDEAL Networks.

LanTEK III with a Channel Adapter on one handset and a cat6A Permanent Link Adapter on another, a proper MPTL certification test can be performed.

‘MPTL’ is a new term that refers to an Ethernet cable that is terminated with a female socket (jack) on one side, and a male plug on the other. This practice enables the cable to be plugged directly into a device, thereby connecting it to a network without installing an additional outlet.

This proves useful where the location of the device makes installing an outlet challenging, such as devices on ceilings, external walls or in media cabinets.