DataShark Network Cable Tester - Cable Mapper, Check Continuity - Test Patch Cords or Installed Cable Runs

Very helpful in the job and have a great value

Just what I needed to test DYI built cable.

Picked this up because I was running into issues with some of the network cables I created. It took longer to unpack this and get the batteries installed than it did to determine I had created bad cables. This is a nice, simple, and quick testing device thats able to determine whats wrong with the cable being tested.

I was out of town for work and needed a Cat 6 tester. I picked this up at Lowes or Depot. Cant remember. From the first test each unit would give different test results. Itd be perfect on my side but my partner would have on open pair.

Pros... 1. Works as advertised. Its not a sophisticated device with many features, but as a relatively low cost device it does serve its limited purpose well and reliably for small jobs. For example, it identified a short on a self-made jumper cable (I had pulled the twists too close to the point where the RJ45 connector housing clamps down on the wires, resulting in two wires being smashed together.) I rated this product 4-stars, not 5, because I feel its a tad overpriced. 2. Takes a 9-volt battery. (Im so tired of AAA batteries.) Cons... 1. The storage case has neither room or separate compartment for the two short testing cables. 2. The 9v battery connector is the kind that clamps on (theyre a pain to deal with when you prefer to store devices with batteries removed) rather than spring tensioned contact plates. 3. The silicone port covers dont attach to the device in any way so theyll all be lost in short order. Note: 4-stars for the product but 2-stars for my particular purchase... I purchased this from Amazon as a used item (at reduced price, of course.) It arrived in original packaging and in excellent condition, however, the two short cables were missing (so I made my own), the 9v battery was already installed, and one of the port covers was missing.

My home network has grown into two wireless routers, two switches, three DVRs, an Xbox, four computers... Geez, it didnt seem complex until I thought about it. Ive been having occasional issues with the network, causing me to reset routers and switches, maybe try unplugging and replugging and rebooting devices... Just enough to be annoying, as it worked most of the time. I spent an hour with this simple device and loved it. It doesnt get easier; the source lights up lights 1-8 in order, and if all is well, 1-8 on the box (if a patch cable is plugged into both holes) or dongle (if checking an installed cable) will light up in sequence as well. I discovered 4 of 11 wires and jacks had issues, including a commercial cable I never would have suspected. Lets just say I now have tremendous respect for the magic boxes ability to work even with messed up cabling; having had this network for years, I now dont know how it ever worked. Now, all is well with my network world, thanks to this device. If youre going to buy a crimper and RJ-45 blanks, your next step should be to buy this. Now, I wont even use a commercial cable without testing it with this device. It gives both great results, a tested network, and peace of mind for a reasonable price.

Make running ethernet a lot easier when you are a novice and working by yourself.

The first tester sent did not work. A second tester was sent this one also wouldnt work. On both units the power light was on but it wouldnt light the pin out lights. I thought I was improbable to have two bad units sent. I went out and bought a new 9V battery, this fixed the problem. The first tester was more than likely not faulty. If you have a problem, toss the battery that comes with the tester and buy a new one.

I purchased this item to assist me with the wiring of CAT 5 cable throughout my home. Unfortunately however the device wasnt able to determine a crossed wire. I had alot of troubles with the crossed wire port. So I borrowed a more advanced system from work - it was able to determine the issue. I was a little disappointed. I would say however that the device would work really well for just ensure that ports map. But leave it to the advanced equipment for intense troubleshooting.

Crimped a bunch of Ethernet cables and had a bad one. Easy to figure out. Plug and play.