We've been getting by at work with an antique that just maps out the network cable wire pairs. I've been asked to come up with recommendations for a more capable unit for testing mostly ethernet twisted pair runs, Cat 3 through at least 6. Wire quality, length, indication of physical problems like kinks or breaks (and if possible at what distance on the cable), and ideally performance/throughput. There's too much noise or interference on this wire; this other wire can do 100Mbits, that one can handle gigabit, that fourth one is capable of doing 10GbE, etc.
The catch is we can't afford the Fluke that can do all that; they start well over $1K. I've got a $500 budget, could maybe push a little over if it buys a worthwhile capability. 10GbE optional but gigabit is pretty much required.
If anyone has suggestions, especially if based on actual use, I'd appreciate it. I already ran Amazon warehouse deals and regional Craigslist for Fluke units but they sure hold their value
Thanks!
