Using PPC as an Ethernet tester?

[SofaTater]

I do desktop support for a large company and part of my job is ensuring that data jacks have network connectivity before big meetings and presentations. We have to double-check this often because cables get unplugged at the patch panel sometimes when someone needs to patch in another port.

Has anyone used a Pocket PC to test Ethernet connectivity at data jacks?

Seems like all I need is a CompactFlash Ethernet adapter (online for less than $50) and some software that will tell me if I have a hot connection.

Before I buy an adapter, are there any gotchas or things I should know?

[victore]

If you're looking for a simple way to test connectivity, get a CF Ethernet adapter (I use a Socket 10/100 ethernet adapter) and fire up PIE. If you can browse the web, you're good to go. If you're looking for more granuality, I'm not aware of any specific utilities that will test each pair in a ethernet cable.

[Constant Caffeine]

What you need to invent is a PDA with Fluke technology.

[Steven Cedrone]

I used to use a CF adapter to test with. Just hooked up the Pocket PC and tried to ping my server. Very easy and very fast...