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.

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.

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.

Fluke is certainly known as being the pro tool for electrical and I.T. professionals, and this tool is no exception. It is without a doubt not the least expensive tool in my kit, but it has saved me so much time.I often find myself in older buildings with older infrastructure, and you just don't know what's behind those walls, but I have been able to tone out connected cable (InteliTone) determine distance to a break, and even determine that a CAT-6 looking cable was actually CAT-4 behind the wall. (and in one case, CAT-3)Identifies the device on the other end, POE Ports, the port number, the VLAN ID and the speed of the run, up to 1gbps. The LinkWare PC software allows you to compile and print results after the job is complete. Especially in older job sites, the LIQ-100-kit is definitely a time saver.

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 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?

Won't do a passive poe load test. Wifi features are nothing more than what you can do with your phone.