Rev. 11/10/00
vii
The Sidekick 7B “Big Head”
The Sidekick 7B “Big Head” made it’s appearance in 1996,
and because of their popularity, toggle switches became the
standard. Currently used throughout the telephone industry, the
Sidekick 7B embraces unparalleled competition as the
technicians “Test set of choice”. It is used by every major
telecommunication company in the United States as well as
numerous countries around the globe.
The Sidekick T&N
In 1998, the Sidekick T&N was introduced with five
Transmission and Noise tests to keep up with the industry’s
demand for more comprehensive testing. Load Coil Detection,
Loop Current, Power Influence, Circuit Noise, and Circuit Loss
Testing were added to the current Sidekick test functions. With
enhanced color coding for improved meter readability and test
function coordination, the T&N has become so practical and
efficient that the need to rely on supplemental test equipment is
now rare. It received its acceptance at every Regional Bell
Operational Center (RBOC) in 1998 and has become even more
popular than the Sidekick 7B
.
The VIP Sidekick
In the early part of 2000, the Sidekick evolved into the Virtual Instrument Package
(VIP Sidekick). A major communications company requested a unique conceptual form
of the Sidekick for their new Intelligent Field Device (IFD). The IFD is a Panasonic
®
Model CF-27 Toughbook
®
computer with both
land-line and wireless modems for dispatch and
close-out. The VIP Sidekick module was
developed to meet specific criteria and is leading
the way for the development of future VIP
modules for multi-purpose testing. When the
module is inserted in the Toughbook, technicians
have Pentium PC power driving on-screen
instrumentation with digital testing accuracy. In
addition to having all the features from previous
Sidekick models, the VIP also has a Digital Open
Meter, Trace and Loss Tones, Caller ID, a
Resistance/Distance Calculator, a Modem Line Tester; and an Autotest which is an
advanced automated preprogrammed test sequence that automatically displays Pass/Fail
test results based on testing criteria configured by the technician, and a detailed on-line
user training and help system.
