Versiv testers are made up of two components:
- the mainframe and remote, which include batteries, displays, USB ports and other functions for controlling the measurement modules
- the modules which make copper or fiber measurements (DSX, CertiFiber Pro, OptiFiber Pro)
The mainframes and remotes will continue to function as they do today but cannot be upgraded to take advantage of Version 7.0 or additional future firmware, which will include enhancements, test limits, and cable types. Eventually, they may not be able to perform certain certifications. Ability to repair these mains and remotes is also limited.
The measurement modules will continue to function and be serviced and calibrated as they always have.
How do I tell what kind of Versiv I have?
It is very easy to spot the difference – see the photos below. What we call “Versiv 1” is marked “Versiv”.
Remote units are marked in the same way, however, remote TFS units were never manufactured.
Why is software support ending?
Versiv Version 7.0, is a major increase in functionality and supports a new multi-fiber testing module (CertiFiber™ Max). This new code will not fit into the TFS / Versiv 1 available memory.
What is in this new 7.0 release?
Support for CertiFiber Max, new test limits and cable types, along with a number of bug fixes.
When will I have to replace my tester?
Your existing tester will continue to work as it does today, and we will continue to service and calibrate measurement modules. Your decision when to upgrade is based on several factors as outlined below.
What is the difference between these different mainframes?
TFS mainframes were shipped on the first OptiFiber Pro models. With the launch of the DSX CableAnalyzer and the CertiFiber Pro, a remote was added and the labeling was changed to “Versiv” for both. (Note TFS and Versiv mainframe differ only in the labeling.) In 2017, we launched the Versiv 2 mainframe and remote, with an updated processor and memory, plus integrated Wi-Fi. Versiv 2 offers faster startup, uploading, upgrading, and test times.
Can I keep using my TFS / Versiv 1 Testers?
Yes, they will continue to function and be supported in LinkWare™ PC and LinkWare Live but will not be able to be upgraded to take advantage of Version 7.0 and any future enhancements, test limits, and cable types. If standards and limits are added or changed significantly, they may not be able to perform certain certifications.
Are Versiv 1 units repairable?
In 2023 Fluke ended service for the TFS and Versiv 1 mainframe, because we had consumed our stockpile of repair parts. Broken V1 units covered by a Gold care plan that are unrepairable may be replaced with Versiv 2 unit with 6.14 firmware at no charge. (The 6.14 software will allow it to be used with existing TFS and Versiv 1 mains and remotes.) Any unused portion of the Gold support will transfer to the new unit. You can read about that in this blog post: https://www.flukenetworks.com/blog/cabling-chronicles/find-versiv1-repair-options
Will Fluke continue to support Versiv 1 units under the Gold program?
Existing Gold care plans for Versiv 1 units will continue to be honored, and they will be able to be renewed as well. Customers will not be able to purchase Gold for an uncovered TFS or Versiv 1 tester. If a TFS or Versiv 1main or remote covered by Gold cannot be repaired, it will be replaced with a Versiv 2 model running 6.14 software.
Can I still calibrate my TFS / Versiv 1 Units?
Yes. Mainframes and remotes do not require calibration, but all working DSX, CertiFiber Pro, and OptiFiber Pro modules can still be calibrated, no matter when they were purchased or what type of mainframe / remote they are installed in.
Can I use Versiv 1 remotes with Versiv 2 units and vice-versa?
Yes, but you will need to be mindful to ensure compatibility. Version 6.14 build 9 will be the last release where all mainframe types can be used fully interchangeably. Main and remote units will work together only when they have the same software, therefore a Versiv 2 main or remote updated to 7.0 or above cannot be used with a Versiv 1 unit as it cannot support those versions. Customers with a mix of TFS, Versiv 1, and Versiv 2 units can avoid problems by not intermixing these mains and remotes, or they can CHOOSE TO NOT upgrade their Versiv 2 units if they wish to be able to keep using all units interchangeably.
How do I prevent upgrading my Versiv testers?
Upgrading your tester to the latest cable types and standards is recommended and we’ve worked to make the process easy. That’s why when you connect a Versiv to LinkWare PC, LinkWare Live, or to another main or remote with a newer version of software, it will ask if you want to upgrade. If you wish to prevent upgrading, you need to be mindful to decline that offer every time. If you send a Versiv 2 main or remote to Fluke Service for a performance check, you can request that it not be upgraded (specify that at RMA creation and/or with a note with the unit when you send it in).
What if I update a Versiv 2 to 7.0 and want to take it back to 6.14?
Unfortunately, there is no way to downgrade a Versiv 2 main or remote to a prior version in the field. That’s why you’ll need to be methodical in declining each request from the tester or LinkWare PC to upgrade.
What are the benefits of upgrading to Versiv 2?
- Faster startup, upgrade, data transfer and test times
- More results storage
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Eliminate any degraded battery life, damaged display or cosmetic issues
- No worries about main and remote compatibility (if you upgrade all your TFS / Versiv 1 units)
- Enhanced data security (when using version 6.14 and higher)
- Compatibility with future software and module releases
How do I purchase an upgrade?
The modular design of Versiv testers means you can upgrade for a fraction of the cost of replacing your tester. If you own a DSX or CertiFiber Pro tester, you’ll need to purchase a main and remote. If you own only an OptiFiber Pro, FI-3000, or FI-7300, you just need to purchase a main unit.
To find out about the offers and the best way to upgrade your TFS or Versiv 1 mainframes, please contact your local Fluke Networks sales representative.