Patch Testing / Tracing

[SteelerRob]

Hi Guys,

I am just starting out in the IT Industry, I look after 14 primary schools, all things IT, my biggest issue is none of the engineers I have taken over from have bothered to label their port to switch paths, and its driving me slowly insane!

I know tone generators are used to trace the cables but my query is, is there a device I can plug in to the wall port that will send a data signal down the line to the patch port and give me a visual link light for reference signal wise? then I can check each port on the patch until I find the signal.

I know its a basic query, but I havn't had the pleasure of tracing 60 un-used, un-labeld ports before

Many Thanks

Rob

 

[SteelerRob]

Unfortunately I am a lone engineer, nor will my company supply me with a cable tester as network mapping is not part of my sites contracts and so is classed as chargeable work. However it is causing me issues when people want equipment moving, at the moment it's patch and hope!

I wouldn't be against buying a cable tester that will do tracing for myself, could you recommend one?

Cheers

Rob

 

[SteelerRob]

If it's chargeable work tell them they need to get someone to come in and label them properly.

Tell them you want a label machine as well! And if you do it, it will save them money by not needing to get anyone in.

It would be my company that wants to charge my sites extra for mapping, that is why they are reluctant to supply testers. It will make my life easier but would end up potentially losing my company a sales opportunity.

I have bought my own label printer

Thanks for the tips anyway I have a spare switch so I will probably take that route.