RICHARDSON, Texas -- Anritsu Company introduces 10 GbE link fault signaling and 1 GbE auto-negotiation testing capabilities for its MD1230A Family of Ethernet/IP Test Systems, the only network data analyzers with dual functionality of full physical layer performance analysis and high level protocol analysis in the same instrument. The new Ethernet link testing capabilities combine with modules powered by Sniffer* Technologies to create a versatile, easy-to-use solution for all network testing environments ranging from R&D and manufacturing to installation and maintenance.

The MD1230A-16 Link Fault Signaling (LFS) software allows the MD1230A to capture and analyze LFS data that is important for notification about physical layer faults in new 10 GbE WAN applications. It allows the MD1230A to complete an LFS event by transmitting Local Fault (LF) or Remote Fault (RF) signals and check functionality by transmitting an edited sequence of XGMII codes, as well as generate and analyze IP and Ethernet frames simultaneously. The software also gives the MD1230A powerful LFS emulation capability.

For 1 GbE applications, the MD1230A-15 Auto-Negotiation Analysis software allows quick identification and resolution of auto-negotiation compatibility problems that often occur between network equipment from different vendors. With this option, the MD1230A can capture and decode auto-negotiation data, automatically determine auto-negotiation conditions, and transmit auto-negotiation test sequences to analyze equipment responses.

The new modules further enhance the MD1230A Family's unique combination of physical layer performance analysis capabilities and high level protocol analysis. The MX123002A Expert Analysis module powered by Sniffer Technologies enables network engineers and administrators to automatically locate and troubleshoot problems up to full wire speed on 10 Gbps Ethernet and PoS (Packet over SONET/SDH) networks. In addition, the MD1230A-04 Decode module uses Sniffer Technologies protocol decoding to present the technical contents of more than 400 complex networking protocols in an easily understandable format. These modules enable the MD1230A to determine, pinpoint, and analyze sophisticated network performance problems automatically, as well as capture data and store it for offline protocol analysis.

The MD1230A is the industry's only self-contained, portable Ethernet/IP, SONET, and Ethernet over SONET (EoS) test instrument that can analyze up to 40 10/100 or five 10 Gbps ports. With its ability to support the fastest network speeds and highest level protocols used today, the MD1230A provides a unique solution and flexible growth path to network managers, service providers, and manufacturers who need a single network test instrument with strong performance test and protocol analysis capability.

The MD1230A-16 LFS software is priced at $19,255, while the MD1230A-15 Auto-Negotiation Analysis software is $9,630. Configurations of the MD1230A Family for Gigabit Ethernet testing start at $15,695. Delivery is 3 to 4 weeks.

Anritsu Corp.