Introduction
The AMPCOM Network Cable Tester is a versatile tool designed for testing Cat7, Cat6, Cat5 RJ45 network cables and RJ11 telephone cables. It supports both UTP and STP cable testing, including detection on Power over Ethernet (PoE) lines with anti-burn protection. Ideal for home network installations, making patch cords, and troubleshooting network connectivity issues, it helps prevent cable termination issues in house wiring and detects patch cable connections in walls. This manual provides detailed instructions for setup, operation, and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your device.
Setup
1. Battery Installation
The tester requires one 9V battery (not included). To install the battery:
- Locate the battery compartment on the back of the main tester unit.
- Open the compartment cover.
- Insert a 9V battery, ensuring correct polarity.
- Close the battery compartment cover.
Note: If the tester will not be used for an extended period, please remove the battery to prevent leakage and damage.
2. Split Design
The tester features a two-in-one split design, allowing the main and remote units to be separated for testing cables over longer distances or installed in different locations.
Operating Instructions
1. Power On/Off and Test Modes
The tester has a power switch with three positions: OFF, ON (Quick Test Mode), and SLOW (Slow Test Mode).
- OFF: Powers off the device.
- ON (Quick Test Mode): Initiates a faster test sequence, suitable for quick checks.
- SLOW (Slow Test Mode): Initiates a slower test sequence, making it easier to observe the indicator lights for detailed analysis.
2. Connecting Cables
The tester supports both RJ45 and RJ11 connectors. Connect one end of the cable to the "MAIN" unit and the other end to the "REMOTE" unit. Ensure the connectors are fully inserted into the appropriate ports.
3. Interpreting Test Results
The tester uses a series of LED indicator lights to display the wiring status of the cable. The lights on both the main and remote units will illuminate in sequence, indicating the continuity of each wire.
RJ45 Port Test:
- UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair): The lights on the main tester will turn on sequentially from 1 to 8.
- STP (Shielded Twisted Pair): The lights on the main tester will turn on sequentially from 1 to G (Ground). The 'G' light indicates the presence of a shield, relevant for PoE applications.
RJ11 Port Test:
- 6P6C: The lights on the main tester will turn on sequentially from 1 to 6.
- 6P4C: The lights on the main tester will turn on sequentially from 2 to 5.
- 6P2C: The lights on the main tester will turn on sequentially from 3 to 4.
Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and accurate performance of your AMPCOM Network Cable Tester, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Battery Care: Always remove the 9V battery if the tester will not be used for an extended period (e.g., several weeks or months) to prevent battery leakage, which can damage the internal components.
- Cleaning: Wipe the exterior of the tester with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents, as these can damage the ABS casing.
- Storage: Store the tester in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Handling: The tester features a durable ABS case, but avoid dropping it or subjecting it to strong impacts to prevent internal damage.
Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues and their solutions when using the network cable tester.
Common Wiring Faults and Indications:
- Open Circuit / Disconnect: If a specific wire (e.g., wire NO.3) is open-circuited, the corresponding NO.3 lights on both the main and remote testers will not turn on. If multiple wires are disconnected, their respective lights will remain off. If fewer than two wires are connected, no lights will illuminate.
- Miswire / Disorder: If two ends of a cable are disordered (e.g., wire NO.2 and NO.4 are swapped), the light sequence will reflect this. For example, the main tester might show 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-G, while the remote tester shows 1-4-3-2-5-6-7-8-G.
- Short Circuit: If two wires are short-circuited, neither of their corresponding lights will illuminate on the remote tester, while the main tester's sequence remains unchanged. If three or more wires are short-circuited, none of their corresponding lights will turn on.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Q: Why does my tester only have the power light on, and no indicator lights flashing?
- A: This indicates insufficient battery power. Please check the battery and replace it with a new 9V battery if necessary.
- Q: Why is Indicator Light 2 off on both the main unit and the remote unit?
- A: This suggests that the corresponding core #2 is either open-circuited or disconnected.
- Q: Why are all lights off even if the power light is off?
- A: The battery is likely dead. Replace the battery with a new one.
- Q: Why are 2 lights on the main unit on, but off on the remote unit?
- A: This typically means that the corresponding core is short-circuited.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Cable Tester |
| Brand Name | AMPCOM |
| Origin | Mainland China |
| Certification | RoHS |
| Compatible Cables | RJ45 (Cat5, Cat6, Cat7 UTP/STP), RJ11 (6P6C, 6P4C, 6P2C) |
| Power Source | 1 x 9V Battery (not included) |
| Material | Durable ABS Case |
| Dimensions (Main Unit) | 102mm (Height) x 98mm (Width) x 25mm (Thickness) |
| Product Weight | 0.114 kg |
Warranty and Support
This AMPCOM Network Cable Tester comes with an 18-month warranty from the date of purchase. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For technical support or warranty inquiries, please contact AMPCOM customer service through the retailer where the product was purchased.
User Tips
- Battery Check: Always ensure your 9V battery has sufficient power before starting a test. A weak battery can lead to inaccurate or incomplete test results (e.g., only the power light on, no indicator lights flashing).
- Slow Mode for Detail: Use the "SLOW" test mode when you need to carefully observe the sequence of indicator lights, especially when diagnosing complex wiring faults like miswires or subtle disconnections.
- Shielded Cable Awareness: Remember that for STP (Shielded Twisted Pair) cables, the 'G' light on the main tester should illuminate, indicating proper shield continuity. This is crucial for Power over Ethernet (PoE) applications.
- Remote Testing: Utilize the split design to test installed cables or wall outlets efficiently. Connect the main unit to one end and the remote unit to the other.
- Environmental Use: This tool is designed for testing network and telephone cables in various environments, including home installations and professional IT setups.
