The Fluke test is a comprehensive assessment used to certify the performance of Ethernet cables, ensuring they meet industry standards (such as ANSI/TIA or ISO/IEC). It is typically conducted using a Fluke Networks Cable Analyzer, a specialized tool that measures various parameters of the cable's performance.

Key tests include:

Wiremap: Ensures proper wiring and identifies issues like open circuits, short circuits, or miswiring.

Insertion Loss: Measures signal loss over the cable's length.

Crosstalk (NEXT/ANEXT): Detects interference between cable pairs and alien crosstalk from nearby cables.

Return Loss: Assesses signal reflection caused by impedance mismatches.

Propagation Delay and Skew: Measures signal travel time and differences between pairs, important for synchronized data transmission.

The results are compared to specific performance standards, with the cable passing or failing based on compliance. Fluke testing is essential for verifying the quality of high-performance cables like Cat 6A, Cat 7 and Cat 7A.