The rapid expansion of high-speed local area networks (LANs)and wide area networks (WANs)has meant a surge in demand for test equipment and cable testers. Networks have become an integral part of work environments, and businesses in a variety of industries require that their networks remain online around the clock. With reliability, network integrity, and efficient operation all top priorities, network operators require robust testing and monitoring solutions that will address their needs.

This Frost &Sullivan research analyzes the major segments of the LAN/WAN test equipment industry, including markets for installation and monitoring equipment, functional test equipment, and network analyzers and cable testers .By identifying drivers and restraints and pr viding expert f recasts, this research offers its readers a comprehensive guide to the future of the marketplace.

Market Participants Must Keep Pace with the Evolving Technologies and Protocols

"LAN/WAN test equipment manufacturers must develop state-of-the-art test equipment fast enough to meet end-user demand," writes the analyst responsible for this report. The development of new technologies, from Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM)to Dense Wave Division Multiplexing (DWDM),and new protocols, such as Voice Over IP (VOIP),are pushing test equipment manufacturers to commit significant resources to their won product development. "Test equipment manufacturers must constantly evolve, innovate, and enhance the testing capabilities of their systems," says the analyst. Participants that keep pace with evolving technologies are in a position to dramatically increase their market share. This report highlights emerging trends that will help your company stay ahead in this ever-changing industry.

Product Integration Will Determine Market Winner

"Integration has become an essential concept in the network industry and in the test equipment arena as well," says the analyst. As local and wide area networks continue to converge, the market will no longer distinguish LAN test equipment from WAN test equipment. There will be increasing demand for the integration of features from previously distinct products, such as cable testers and network analyzers.

"In the interest of cost effectiveness and efficiency, network operators demand test solutions that are integrated and operate remotely from a centralized location," says the analyst. End users want complete solutions that monitor, diagnose, and correct network problems. By tracking end user demands, this report enables its readers to optimize product development and ultimately maximize market gains.