This handheld tester from intec tests VDSL2, ADSL, SHDSL, Ethernet, and ISDN (BRI and U-Interface) and POTS as well – with no module swapping.

The all-round tester with a color display is the only handheld tester that offers support for VDSL2 (all profiles), ADSL (Annex A, B) and SHDSL (2, 4, and 8-wire with support for SHDSL.bis – also known as ESHDSL, Enhanced SHDSL – and EFM) if desired, Ethernet, ISDN (BRI and U-Interface) and even POTS; all integrated into a single device. In addition to its functionality as a complete analog and ISDN tester, it also offers support for testing VoIP via all of the various xDSL interfaces and Ethernet. Besides simulating a terminal, it also offers extensive statistics functions and evaluates voice quality in accordance with various techniques, e.g. using MOS tests. ARGUS 145 plus can also operate in xDSL bridge and router mode.

Furthermore, the tester includes support for determining the Media Delivery Index (MDI) and, when it is used to simulate a set-top box, the ARGUS 145 plus can also be used to assess IPTV and VoD data streams. The ARGUS 145 plus is also well equipped for checking Internet connections as it has IP-Ping and Trace Route functions as well as download tests.

In addition, the tester offers an Ethernet Through mode as well as a Router Replacement mode with support for DHCP (Client and Server). As is the case with all other ARGUS handheld testers, all of these tests and functions are integrated into the device – so there is no need to bother with the annoyance of exchanging modules. The ARGUS145 has a USB interface for quickly transferring large quantities of data plus a 100BaseT LAN interface.

In view of the above set of features, it is obvious that the ARGUS 145 plus offers an extensive range of measurement functions for use on all of the current interfaces. Nonetheless, it should not be overlooked that this set of features has been packed into an extremely small and handy device; one that is not only compact and convenient to use on location, but also ready for use in no time.

The ARGUS 145 plus is also user-friendly and easy to operate. It has a large 320 x 240 pixel color display, uses softkeys and has not only a USB client but also a USB host interface, which can be used to connect a USB stick for example. The tester has two Ethernet interfaces and uses a high-powered (rechargeable) battery pack.