Abstract: Apparatus and method are disclosed for determining the location of a network component coupled to a local area network segment. A remote segment monitor unit is coupled to either end of a cable segment of a local area network system. The remote segment monitor unit, for each transaction on the cable segment, determines a value related to the transaction signal strength and determines the identity of the network node from which the transaction originated. By providing a record of the transaction signal strength associated with each network node (component) in both remote segment monitors, the location of network nodes can be ascertained.

Abstract: Apparatus and method are disclosed for providing a calibrated measurement of signals applied to a local area network cable segment. A remote segment monitor unit has the signal sampling circuit coupled to a signal generating unit. The signal generating unit is controlled by a network system member (node) and applies a series of known signal levels to the signal sampling circuit of the remote segment monitor unit. The known signal levels from the signal generating unit and the signal levels measured by the remote segment monitor as a result of the known signal levels are compared and an appropriate scale factor entered in the processing circuit of the remote segment monitor. Using the calibrated remote segment monitor, the location of network nodes can be identified from the signal levels measured by the remote segment monitor.