Network Tester verifies metro Ethernet network performance.

Agilent Technologies, Inc. Nov 18, 2004

Press Release Summary:

Handheld FrameScope Pro N2620A allows network technicians to test gigabit Ethernet by running RFC 2544 performance benchmarking to verify throughput at full line rate. Single tool tests 10/100/1 gigabit Ethernet copper connections and fiber connections via standard SFP interface for 1000BASE-SX/LX/ZX. Auto-test feature isolates protocol, configuration, and resource performance problems. Remote control via Web browser allows troubleshooting from central office.

Original Press Release:

Agilent Technologies' Handheld Network Tester Offers Gigabit Ethernet, RFC 2544 Performance Testing in Single Tool

Cost-Effective Instrument Allows Automatic Verification of Metro Ethernet Network Performance

PALO ALTO, Calif., Nov. 15, 2004 -- Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) today introduced a handheld network-performance tester that allows network technicians to test gigabit Ethernet by running RFC 2544 performance benchmarking to verify throughput at full line rate. The Agilent N2620A FrameScope Pro uses a unique auto-test feature that measures the performance of network resources such as DHCP and DNS as well as file, e-mail and Web servers, enabling troubleshooting of elusive performance bottlenecks.

FrameScope Pro's high level of integration at an affordable price makes it the most cost-effective, easy-to-use tool for Ethernet metro network deployment. A single tool can test 10/100/1 gigabit Ethernet copper connections and fiber connections via a standard SFP interface for 1000BASE-SX/LX/ZX, addressing both the performance measurement requirements for RFC 2544 and the troubleshooting requirements of everyday Ethernet maintenance on all Ethernet physical layer types. This single-tool approach gives the installation technician the flexibility to solve problems without the assistance of protocol analyzers and the engineers required to operate them.

"Deploying gigabit Ethernet has never been easier," said Werner Berkel, vice president and general manager of Agilent's Photonic Measurement Division. "With two keystrokes, the FrameScope Pro verifies the performance of network resources and applications in an easy-to-understand, user-configured form. The FrameScope Pro brings the power of RFC 2544 Ethernet performance verification to a handheld tester, and gives network troubleshooting professionals the solutions to critical network performance problems at a very low price."

Features of the FrameScope Pro include the following:
o Tool supports 802.3z-compliant 10/100/1000BASE-T copper and 1000BASE-SX/LX/ZX gigabit fiber SFP interfaces.
o RFC 2544 performance benchmarking verifies throughput at full line rate on both copper and fiber Ethernet interfaces at speeds from 1 megabit to 1 gigabit.
o Auto-test application performance testing allows for quick isolation of protocol, configuration and resource performance problems.
o Automatic network discovery simplifies use and documents network resources and stations.
o Remote control via any Web browser allows troubleshooting, monitoring and reporting from a central office, eliminating costly dispatches.
o Full-screen, color LCD displays clear and complete results.
o Touch-screen interface and online manuals enhance ease of use.

U.S. Pricing and Availability
The Agilent N2620A FrameScope Pro handheld network-performance analyzer is now available for order at a list price of $8,086 and is expected to ship in January 2005.

Further information is available at www.framescope.com. Product photos are available at www.agilent.com/find/photo_fspro.

About Agilent Technologies
Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) is a global technology leader in communications, electronics, life sciences and chemical analysis. The company's 28,000 employees serve customers in more than 110 countries. Agilent had net revenue of $6.1 billion in fiscal year 2003. Information about Agilent is available on the Web at www.agilent.com.