AirMagnet touts Wi-Fi troubleshooting tool

AirMagnet, a division of Fluke Networks, has launched a spectrum analysis and Wi-Fi troubleshooting tool aimed at entry-level users in large or small organisations.

The AirMedic USB connects to a device via USB and displays information on any interference issues that could be interrupting or affecting Wi-Fi reception.

The device can also record a snapshot of the RF spectrum, which can then be emailed to someone with more experience, or analysed in more depth later on.

Chris Roeckl, vice president of marketing at AirMagnet, explained that the firm had launched the product to meet the growing need for large and small companies to better manage their Wi-Fi networks.

"Large enterprises may have more IT staff trained in Wi-Fi management, but many technicians won't be. This device allows them to go and get a quick and simple reading of problems, which can then be emailed back to those with expertise," he said.

"Similarly, this gives small firms the ability to get a better understanding on a basic level to see what is happening in a given area that could be affecting their Wi-Fi networks."

Roeckl added that the AirMedic USB has internal and omni-directional antennas to narrow any source of interference emanating from a product such as a mobile phone or microwave oven.

The device can run on Windows 7, Vista or XP, Apple MacBook Pro running BootCamp, Parallels Desktop or VMware Fusion, and can scan the 2.4GHz, 4.9GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi bands.

The AirMedic USB is available now for US$995.