With the Workgroup Analyzer, the Fluke range now includes fixed rack-mounted network monitoring. The box is an OptiView minus the screen and Windows front-end.
We tested the gigabit version of the product, which has one Fast Ethernet copper port, a fixed 1000Base-FX fibre port, and a GBIC port, which can take 1000Base-FX/SX/Ts. At gigabit speeds the unit is capable of half-duplex data capture, while full-duplex capture comes with the OptiView Link Analyzer.
You manage the Workgroup Analyzer through a Windows-based application that can communicate via a network connection or through the out-of-band management port, which has to be used for upgrades.
In its default configuration the unit attempts to gain an IP address through a DHCP server. If none is found, it will monitor local traffic and give itself an IP address that matches the local subnet.
The management software will automatically scan the network looking for new Workgroup Analyzers, although an ET-style phone-home feature automatically contacts a management station when the Analyzer is plugged in. The console front page offers a quick overview of the network and includes devices found, statistics, and problems found.
The Workgroup Analyzer uses switches to gather information via SNMP. This can provide port statistics on a switch, but more impressively can perform a Trace SwitchRoute to say exactly where in the network, right down to the switch port, a device is located.
An expert tool highlights problems, including incorrect IP configuration and bad packets. Along with the top-talker and protocol statistics, there's enough information to see most problems and work out where they originate.
If that's not enough, there's always the traffic capture utility, although the management software doesn't support protocol decodes. For that, you need to buy Fluke's Protocol Expert or export the file to Sniffer or Ethereal.
Traffic capture can take a large number of filters and isn't limited, as are some other products on the market. While the hardware can capture data, it can't play it back. Traffic generation is limited to putting raw packets out on the network.
Product Info
Price From £5,688
Contact Fluke Networks 01923 216446
www.flukenetworks.com
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