GL Communications' mTOP Probe portable test platform targets TDM, optical, and packet networks

Jan. 27, 2022
The Multiple TDM Optical and Packet (mTOP) Probe hardware platform features remote access capabilities, making it suitable for field testing, monitoring, and troubleshooting network conditions.

Telecom test equipment specialist GL Communications Inc. has released a self-contained test platform designed for time-domain multiplexing (TDM), optical, and packet multi-interface testing. The Multiple TDM Optical and Packet (mTOP) Probe hardware platform features remote access capabilities, making it suitable for field testing, monitoring, and troubleshooting network conditions.

The portable mTOP Probe fits in a backpack. The unit is designed to house any of GL’s testing devices, including the PacketExpert, tProbe (T1 E1), USB T3 E3, and Dual UTA HDs, alongside a Windows-PC-based controller. It also has an Ethernet port for remote access via Remote Desktop Protocol. An optional external Wi-Fi adaptor can be plugged into USB 2.0 or 3.0 ports on the rear panel of the unit, supporting wireless connectivity.

The computer sports both USB and HDMI interfaces for local access. Users have the option of either an Intel i3 or i7 Processor, with a Windows 10 64-bit Pro Operating System, minimal 8G RAM and 256G SSD.

A rackmounted variant of the product can house any mix of USB-based test equipment (TDM/optical/packet). Combinations of USB test instruments can be easily deployed and securely fixed to an equipment rack, creating a scalable solution for end-to-end testing of multi-interface networks, GL asserts.

Important Features

  • Flexibility in running multiple interface tests from a single mTOP Probe portable unit
  • Automation and remote accessibility via scripting and Ethernet remote desktop
  • Real-time results presented per port and all-port basis in both tabular and graphical formats
  • All test results can be exported to a centralized database.

For related articles, visit the Test and Measurement Topic Center.

For more information on test instruments and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide.

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