Web testing gets a little wet, Net technology aims to reduce costs, improve efficiency

The test and measurement industry is getting some help from the World Wide Web. Hewlett-Packard's role in this trend is providing Web-enabled technology, or w.e.t. The slogan, "A new wave of communications test harnessing the power of the Web," is set against a roaring blue, white-capped ocean wave.

HP's initial entry is the Internet Advisor, a datacom test tool equipped with a Java-enabled Web browser. The tool features simplicity in training technicians to use it and in configuring the accompanying software, printing and graphics.

The Internet Advisor also saves time and travel expense because experienced managers and technicians can go on-line to consult with technicians who need help in the field, said Thomas Doumas, R&D project manager in HP's Communications Measurements Division. The problem gets resolved without waiting for the expert to hop an airplane to evaluate the network.

Tests for urgent network problems also can be controlled from remote locations, without requiring a technician to travel to the trouble spot. The on-line capabilities let technicians access HP and other Web sites to get application information, technical documents, network equipment specifications and industry forums.

The browser is important to vendors as well as carriers because they no longer must develop software to support a variety of computer systems such as Unix, OS2, Sun Solaris and Windows NT, said John McConnell, president of McConnell Consulting Inc., Boulder, Colo.

But McConnell cautioned against expecting the Web to solve every network management problem. Its universal appeal may fall prey to the faulty thinking that "if you have a screwdriver, everybody thinks you can drive nails," he said.

"We need a lot more interactivity in management applications if the Web is going to be the way to go," McConnell said. "As customers get familiar with the tools, they'll understand what those tools do and don't do.

Web-enabled technology for the Internet Advisor is expected to be available in the third quarter. The remote and support elements that complement it will be available in June.