Palo Alto, California-headquartered Hewlett-Packard Co has introduced a Unix-based broadband analyser targeted at companies installing Asynchronous Transfer Mode networks. The E5200A is a briefcase-sized analysis tool that enables real-time testing to be performed at rates between 1.5Mbps and 155Mbps, with all layers of the protocol stack monitored and tested, including the physical Asynchronous Mode adaptation layer and services layers. A total of 1,023 channels can be monitored in real-time, said the company. It also features a graphical user interface to pinpoint network errors, and incorporates a link monitor and on-line help that automatically provide status information and potential solutions to errors, said the company, while smart troubleshooting techniques enable network installers to measure the quality of a new service accurately by automatically setting up simulation and monitor tests for which the user sets the pass/fail criteria. Simulation capabilities include customised traffic patterns, including cells and payload data units, and the transmission of captured live traffic. Base units for the offering start at $30,000, with configured systems ranging from $54,000 to $80,000, depending on interfaces. It ships next month.
