Testing multiple flavors of DSL on one handheld

Sunrise Telecom today introduced a new handheld test platform that lets technicians work with both ADSL and VDSL flavors, as well as the services that run over them – including data, video and voice over IP – on a single unit.

“When you look at the evolution in DSL flavors service providers use to deliver triple-play services, technicians have also had to deal with multiple test systems or modules,” said Bahaa Moukadam, CEO of Sunrise Telecom. By comparison, the new SunLite UDSL test solution enables technicians to use a single, compact device to test multiple DSL standards, such as ADSLx and VDSLx, he said.

The SunLite USDL has a 3.5-inch LCD touch screen and weighs less than 1.5 pounds. Its USB host connector enables file management and software upgrades, and the solution supports test ports for both DSL and 10/100 Ethernet, the vendor said.

Moukadam said that not only do many service providers upgrade from ADSL to higher-speed VDSL services – requiring new test units – but that many providers run a mix of DSL flavors in various parts of their networks. In either scenario, a unit that can handle multiple DSL standards means buying fewer units upfront while also equipping techs with tools to speed testing across those diverse networks, cutting costs.

The SunLite UDSL unit features one-button test capabilities for key modem status measurements and quick network deployment for any flavor of DSL. The device also supports service verification for VoIP and IP video, providing a single solution for testing triple-play services delivered through DSL broadband connections.

Service providers still handle a good portion of their DSL installation and testing in house; SunLite UDSL would be a good fit for those scenarios, Moukadam said. And while outside contractors often do their own equipment purchasing, Moukadam believes it’s likely some service providers will suggest – if not dictate – that their third-party partners use a multi-flavor DSL test unit to help simplify testing and to standardize the reporting of results.

The reason: Better network and service testing not only cuts costs and speeds installs, it’s crucial for assuring service performance, a task that flows through all layers of the organization on today’s IP-centric networks, Moukadam said. “This is a major organization challenge, not just making the pipes work, but ensuring the quality of customer experience for the services being delivered over those pipes,” he said.