The D280 is a simple, low-cost tool for testing Ethernet ports to verify service and
advertised capabilities. Its easy to use and can fit in your pocket or tool kit.
Ambiguous duplex and link compatibility issues are quickly resolved with bicolor
LEDs, which indicate Hub or NIC, Speed, Duplex and Auto settings for the
equipment in question.
Operation
Just plug it in! The Speed Reader is activated automatically if it detects Ethernet
equipment at the far end of the cable. If the connection is OPEN, then nothing will
happen. Likewise, if the port is really for TOKEN RING or is a TELCO circuit, then
nothing will happen. When you plug the D280 into an Ethernet device, it will first
power up and flash all of its LEDs (both red and green) and then it will indicate the
specifics of the Ethernet service as follows:
Green LEDs mean that the device looks like a HUB or a SWITCH and the red LEDs
mean that the device looks like a NIC card in a COMPUTER or looks like a WAN
port on a router. This identification scheme assumes a straight through cable
with correct polarity like the one supplied with the Speed Reader.
If all LEDs remain off, it means that the connection is open, or something other
than Ethernet was detected. If your D280 LEDs appear dim or fail to function, it
may be time to replace the 9-volt alkaline battery.
NOTE! If the LEDs are constantly flickering BOTH red and green, your Speed
Reader is not malfunctioning. Please see the Auto-MDIX description in
the next section.
Auto-sensing Ports
The green Auto Sensing LED will light to indicate a 10/100 capable device and
the four bicolor LEDs will indicate the advertised speed & duplex capabilities.
If one or both link partners are auto sensing, then they will automatically get link
at the highest common capability (fastest speed and duplex settings that both
will support).
If the D280 detects an Ethernet device that has been SWITCHED OFF, then you
will see the LED test cycle continuously at one-second intervals with no final
determination.
In this case, a pause will be displayed when all LEDs are off, and this should not
be confused with an Auto-MDIX indication.