what 'basic' network tester?

Magic_x_uk · 13 Aug 2011 at 13:48

What is a good basic network tester for testing RJ11, RJ45, cat cable etc.

Is this one any good for basic use.

Dont wish to spend a fortune but thought as I am about to do some routing of home network cable it maybe useful to have a basic one and I am sure it will come in useful in the future.

Noticed on Ebay there are loads. Can I have some info on what you would advise for just home use.

thank you
thanks

blueacid · 13 Aug 2011 at 13:55

Anything cheap will just test continuity - it checks that the cable is connected correctly and that a few volts will run down it to light up the LEDs.

Far better Fluke ones will certify the wiring for 100Mhz / 250Mhz - it checks for crosstalk and will certify the cabling for data use rather than just being 8 pairs of bell wire. These ones cost a blinding amount of money.

I'd therefore say "Anything cheap from ebay, don't take the mick with the bend radius on your cable and you'll be a-ok". When terminating the cable, don't untwist more than the utter minimum (2-3mm)

Speedy Pete · 13 Aug 2011 at 15:16

personally id just send some big files across and check they get to the other end fine and obviously at the right speed.

nate922 · 13 Aug 2011 at 15:23

Check basic settings such as speed duplex. You'll notice interface status changes with dodgy cabling.

ChrisD. · 13 Aug 2011 at 15:36

I've got a Ideal 33-856. Cracking bit of kit.

Skidilliplop · 13 Aug 2011 at 22:28

Cheap one is fine. As said above if the cable isn't hairpinned all over the place you're unlikely to get any weird stuff. It'll be a case of a pin is terminated or it's not, any cheap tester should reveal such faults.

It's rare that cables get damaged in the middle of a run, usually they're either crap terminations or [paris get completely severed.

lewism · 16 Aug 2011 at 13:23

Better off buying a multimeter to be honest with continuity buzz. Least it has some other uses after the install.

Magic_x_uk · 16 Aug 2011 at 13:40

lewism said:
Better off buying a multimeter to be honest with continuity buzz. Least it has some other uses after the install.

I have one of those digital ones. No idea what it does. Never looked into it. Has a dial and LCD on it. Loads of things but id be damned if I know what any of them do apart from continuity bit.