Page 2
Atlas IT User Guide July 2013 – Rev 7 PLEASE NOTE This instrument is ONLY suitable for RJ45 plugs. This is confirmed on the front panel of your instrument. Under no circumstances must any other type of connector be used, even if it seems to fit.
July 2013 – Rev 7 Want to use it now? We understand that you want to use your Atlas IT right now. The unit is ready to go and you should have little need to refer to this user guide, but please make sure that you do at least read page 4!
Atlas IT User Guide July 2013 – Rev 7 Introduction The Atlas IT will quickly analyse your RJ45 network cables, sockets and patch panels. Summary Features: Automatic identification of cable type, such as straight- • through patch cables, crossover cables, token-ring cables and many more.
Failure to comply with this warning may result in personal injury, damage to the equipment under test, damage to the Atlas IT and invalidation of the manufacturer's warranty. Additionally, the absolute voltage limit of 80V (between any pair of wires) is stated for a maximum duration of 15 seconds.
Atlas IT User Guide July 2013 – Rev 7 Background Information Cat 5 (short for Category 5) network cables are typically used for 10 Base-T Networks and 100 Base-T Networks operating at 10Mbps and 100Mbps respectively. Many new networks are now being specified to operate at even higher data rates, these are sometimes referred to as Cat 5e (e for enhanced) and Cat 6 networks.
Other Cable Configurations There are many different connection patterns that are used for various applications, most of which are automatically recognised by the Atlas IT. Please refer to the Ethernet Connection Chart in the middle of this booklet for further details.
Atlas IT instrument at the other. Atlas IT The Atlas IT is supplied with two short patch cables to allow for the testing of network cabling that is accessible only by sockets (or a patch panel). This is illustrated here:...
Page 9
Simply press the on-test button. The Atlas IT will first perform a short search procedure to determine if it can detect an Atlas IT Terminator. When this has been detected, it will then proceed to a full analysis of the cable.
July 2013 – Rev 7 Analysis Results Good Cables If the cable being tested is good, the Atlas IT will display a message similar to this: The first page to be displayed tells you the type of connection configuration for the cable you’re testing, in this case a simple 8-...
Page 11
Atlas IT User Guide July 2013 – Rev 7 This page is intentionally blank. Page 10...
Page 12
Atlas IT User Guide July 2013 – Rev 7 Page 11...
Page 13
Atlas IT User Guide July 2013 – Rev 7 Page 12...
Page 14
Atlas IT User Guide July 2013 – Rev 7 This page is intentionally blank. Page 13...
7 & 8. These line numbers are as “seen” at the Atlas IT end of the cable. If more than 2 wires are shorted, just the first shorted pair are shown. Swapped Lines: Incorrectly wired lines will be flashed on the connection details display.
Atlas IT User Guide July 2013 – Rev 7 Optional Identified Terminators The Atlas IT (from firmware version 2.0 and later) supports the use of Identified Terminators. Wall Socket Atlas IT Patch Lead Patch Panel Atlas IT ID Terminators These special terminators can be used in exactly the same way as the standard (non-identified) terminators.
July 2013 – Rev 7 Display Cable-Making Instructions If the Atlas IT is started without a network cable and terminator connected, brief instructions on the connections for common network cables are displayed. The displayed instructions are only to serve as a reminder of course, please...
July 2013 – Rev 7 Taking care of your Atlas IT Battery Replacement The Atlas IT requires no special maintenance, although the battery should be replaced every 12 months to prevent leak damage. If this message is displayed, the battery should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent malfunction or leak damage.
Sets of 8 Identified Terminators are available with the following range of ID numbers: 1-8, 9-16 and 17-24. The terminators are automatically recognised by your Atlas IT and will help you identify, analyse and number many cable runs in quick succession.
It is possible however that under extreme conditions of cable length, electrical environment and installed hardware that the Atlas IT will generate inaccurate readings. Please contact us if you have any doubts. Page 19...
Appendix D - Warranty Information Peak Satisfaction Guarantee If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with the Peak Atlas IT within 14 days of purchase you may return the unit to your distributor. You will receive a refund covering the full purchase price if the unit is returned in perfect condition.
More details can be obtained from your national WEEE recycling agency. If in doubt, you may send your Peak Product to us for safe and environmentally responsible disposal. At Peak Electronic Design Ltd we are committed to continual product development and improvement.
Need help?
Do you have a question about the Atlas IT and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers