Fluke Networks LIQ-100 LinkIQ Cable + Network Tester

We use the LIQ for training. Compared to its peers, it's my current favorite Cat cable tester for 5, 5e, 6 and 6A. I've included a photo of the TDR and wire-map functions, versus a Viavi ONX-580 OneExpert (a completely different device, but comparable for this test).If you need verifiable crosstalk measurements (near-end, far-end, power sum, etc.), or Cat 7 or 8 testing, then you'll have to get into the Fluke Versiv mainframe, like a DSX-8000, which is several times more expensive. However, for easy and simple qualification testing up to 10G, the Link IQ is superb. The single pushbutton test might mislead some that the unit cannot be customized for testing, as it did me when considering the device, but you can set-up virtually all key test parameters (shield or no-shield is an important one, for example). This requires a menu-dive, but I felt these were quick, simple, and intuitive. By the way, I'm sure the meter does perform basic crosstalk checks to qualify up to 10G, but you cannot directly see the results, as you would with more expensive certification devices, like the Fluke Versiv DTX (older) and DSX (newer) series.The LIQ is light to carry, charges very quickly, and is reasonably well protected, although I wouldn't want it to hit the floor with too much velocity (but you won't do that...). The single included remote (ID #1), Cat 6A test cable, and worldwide power adapter kit, are all welcome accessories in the kit. Larger projects would benefit from you purchasing additional remote ID's, but the single remote will go a long way to help with small and even medium size wire-mapping jobs. We are very happy with the purchase.

Everything worked and had zero issues

As a network specialist this has taken second guessing out of my job. The data it offers as well as the ease of use has been fantastic. The only downside side was the case. A little flimsy for such an expensive device. So I went ahead and got my own. Now everything is safe and better organized in a hard shell case.

We built a several hundred sq mile gigabit WiFi network in the Western desert. Don't know how we managed without this type of device to check our Network cabling to back-haul microwaves. Simple to operate from intuitive menu. The junior tech opened the box in the truck as we headed into the deserts. In moments we answered many networking questions in what most network jocks would call seriously adverse environments. In our application it paid for itself in a matter of hours because it identified sketchy network cable issues vs purchase & chg-out of costly microwave gear. Will update you in a year.

Tests fast and is able to provide various network details (VLAN, IP, etc.) as well. If you have a large number of cables to test, its worth getting the additional remote ID kit.I got this during the Fluke Promotion and was able to score a free accessory.

I've been a big fan of Fluke products for a long time, and I upgraded to this from the CIQ-100 CableIQ Qualification Tester 2 years ago to be able to qualify 2.5/5/10Gbps cabling. It largely works just as you'd expect, with one major exception - the CIQ-100 immediately sensed when you switched the cable from port to port and immediately reported the settings for that port. With the LIQ, you have to manually go in and hit test after you move the cable. It seems like a little thing until you're trying to locate and test several ports at once. In those situations, this unit essentially is multiple times slower than the CIQ, and is extremely frustrating. I was hoping that they would fix this with a software update since I bought it shortly after launch, but 2 years later, I'm still waiting....

If you can afford this, it's a troubleshooting must have.

I had high hopes for this tester. Supposedly it’s a CIQ-100 replacement but better. Not at all, it works great when attached to a good cable, not so much when it’s a problem. The old CIQ100 was able to quickly troubleshoot the problem, show up which pair is broken and where. This thing report problems as “not connected”. Ok so what now? Dig up the old CIQ100 to find out what’s the issue?