Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for use in testing and evaluating aspects of a high speed communications network. In particular, a portable traffic checker for field use is provided that includes multiple sets of different types of communication links and is compatible with multiple protocols. One such traffic checker includes “test” and “monitor” modules having access to a data signal received by the traffic checker. The “test” module tests aspects of the communications network with a BER methodology, while the “monitor” module checks and reports on aspects of the data signal such as frame sizes, data rates, and data signal errors. Information obtained by the modules can be timestamped and stored in a log, and may also be uploaded through a communications port. Some information may also be displayed. Additionally, the traffic checker is switchable between the “test” and “monitor” modes and enables a user to select a data rate.

Abstract: A diagnostic device, such as a network probe or a blade, with wired and/or wireless communication capabilities. In one example embodiment, a network probe includes a processor, a memory in communication with the processor, and a buffer in communication with the processor. In this example embodiment, the processor is programmed to identify a triggering event in data received by the network probe and store, in the buffer, data that is associated with the triggering event.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a wireless diagnostic device, such as a network probe or a blade, with wireless communication capabilities. In one example embodiment, a network probe includes a processor, a memory in communication with the processor, a buffer in communication with the processor, and a first wireless transceiver in communication with the processor. In this example embodiment, the first wireless transceiver is configured to transmit data over a wireless channel.

Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for use in testing and evaluating aspects of a high speed communications network. In particular, a portable traffic checker for field use is provided that includes multiple sets of different types of communication links and is compatible with multiple protocols. One such traffic checker includes “test” and “monitor” modules having access to a data signal received by the traffic checker. The “test” module tests aspects of the communications network with a BER methodology, while the “monitor” module checks and reports on aspects of the data signal such as frame sizes, data rates, and data signal errors. Information obtained by the modules can be timestamped and stored in a log, and may also be uploaded through a communications port. Some information may also be displayed. Additionally, the traffic checker is switchable between the “test” and “monitor” modes and enables a user to select a data rate.