Detect defective cables quickly and easily - with a cable tester
A cable tester - also called a "line tester" - should definitely be part of your equipment, regardless of whether you work as a professional electrician or are a passionate hobby tinkerer.
Because although wireless connections are increasingly used in the IoT cosmos, cables are always considered an important component in the field of electrical engineering and IT. But what is actually behind this device? As the name suggests, a cable tester is there to check cable connections and detect possible sources of error. And the importance of this process should not be underestimated, because a defective cable can not only affect other (expensive) electrical devices. In the worst case, damage to the cable can even pose a threat to life and limb.
What types of cable testers are there?
The compact cable tester test devices come in various designs, because in order for them to perform their function flawlessly, the modules must be optimally aligned with the cable to be tested. One of the most common variants is considered to be the cable tester for network and coaxial cables. And this is hardly surprising, because especially when installing data networks, the cable in question should be tested in advance to rule out a possible defect and make sure that the wires of the line are properly connected to each other.
But other types of cables can also be tested with a cable tester. For HDMI cables and USB cables, for example, there are also specially developed devices that can be used to check the functionality of the individual wires. Some testers are also suitable for several types of cables, for example, for a network cable and a USB cable. In addition, there are special display port testers that read EDID data stored in the monitor. You can also find all these product types in Berrybase's online store.
Cable testers - what to consider when buying?
As mentioned in the previous section, there are different types of cable testers. Therefore, it is important that you read the product description carefully before buying. This way, you can be sure that you are ordering exactly the right tester for your needs. In addition, you should note that cable testers rely on batteries for the power supply. However, these are usually not included in the scope of delivery, which is why you should definitely find out which batteries you need for the respective device.
How does the testing process work and what do I have to consider when using it?
A network cable tester consists of two components. Either the system consists of two main units or one main unit and one remote unit. The latter variant offers the advantage that the remote unit can (usually) be connected to a branching unit. In this way, entire series of measurements can be carried out - and at a fairly rapid pace.
Since a network cable basically consists of eight wires, the numbers 1 to 8 are printed on the network cable tester. To check whether the cable is in perfect condition, one end of the cable is now plugged into each of the two tester modules. The main module - or one of the two main modules - acts as a transmitter, i.e. it sends out signals that are picked up and analyzed by the receiver. If the numbers 1 to 8 subsequently light up one after the other, everything is in perfect order. However, if one or more numbers are skipped, you can assume that there is a defect. The measurement result is usually displayed on the main unit. If you use the variant with two main units, the result is displayed on both modules. The test procedure is usually relatively quick. Moreover, no professional skills are required to perform it. Thus, a network cable tester can be used by technical laymen without any problems.
Wall scanner: That's why it's worth buying one
Apart from a cable tester, a wall scanner should also be part of every DIYer's equipment. As the name suggests, such a device is used to check the wall (or even the floor) of a room to find out whether there is an object, such as a cable, hidden behind it. For this reason, wall scanners are sometimes referred to as "line finders". The application is very simple: The scanner, which is equipped with sensors, is manually guided along the wall in order to calibrate it to the material to be found. The best way to do this is to select a spot where the material in question is not expected. As soon as the wall scanner identifies an electrical wire, a metal object or even a wooden beam, you will be notified by an acoustic signal. Thus, a wall scanner is not only the perfect tool if you want to install new wiring. It also proves to be an extremely practical tool for other renovation work and the installation of floors.
Order cable testers now at Berrybase at a great price
You have decided to complete your equipment and therefore to buy a cable tester and a wall scanner? Then Berrybase is the right place for you. We offer you a whole range of high-quality products. We rely exclusively on the expertise of renowned top brands. At the same time you benefit from surprisingly low prices. If you have any questions or suggestions, our competent service team will be happy to help you.