PROSTER PST187a-PST

PROSTER Wire Tracker RJ11 RJ45 Cable Tester User Manual

Model: PST187a-PST

Introduction

The PROSTER Wire Tracker is a versatile instrument designed for efficient and accurate tracking of various commonly used cables. This set includes an emitter and a receiver, enabling users to quickly identify target wires among a bundle. It is an essential tool for technicians involved in the installation and maintenance of communication lines and wiring circuits, suitable for telephone, computer networks, and other weak current electric wire fields.

Proster Wire Tracker Emitter and Receiver with accessories

Image: The Proster Wire Tracker set, showing the red emitter and receiver units, headphones, and various cable adapters.

Product Components and Features

Familiarize yourself with the main components and features of the Proster Wire Tracker for optimal use.

Diagram of Proster Wire Tracker components

Image: Detailed diagram illustrating the components of the Proster Wire Tracker, including the probe, wire finding indicator, signal indicator, inching button, RJ45/RJ11 sockets, spotlight switch, headset jack, volume adjuster, wire sequence indicator, function switching button, function selector switch, and testing indicator.

Setup

Before using the Proster Wire Tracker, ensure it is properly set up.

Battery Installation

Both the emitter and receiver units require a 9V battery for operation.

  1. Locate the battery compartment on the back of both the emitter and receiver units.
  2. Open the battery compartment cover.
  3. Insert one 9V battery into each compartment, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
  4. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

It is recommended to use fresh alkaline batteries for optimal performance. Remove batteries if the device will not be used for an extended period.

Operating Instructions

The Proster Wire Tracker offers multiple functionalities for cable testing and tracing.

1. Wire Tracking (Line Finding)

This function allows you to find a specific wire among a bundle or trace its path.

  1. Connect the emitter unit to the cable you wish to trace. Use the RJ11 port for telephone lines, the RJ45 port for network cables, or the crocodile clip cable for other wire types.
  2. Set the function selector switch on the emitter to the "SCAN" position. The "STATUS" LED will illuminate.
  3. Turn on the receiver unit by pressing the "POWER" button.
  4. Use the receiver's probe to scan the cables at the other end or along the cable path.
  5. Listen for the "tout" sound from the receiver and observe the signal indicator LEDs. The target wire will produce the loudest sound and the brightest indicator.
  6. In noisy environments, plug the provided headphones into the receiver's headset jack for clearer audio detection.
Wire tracking in action with Proster Wire Tracker

Image: The Proster Wire Tracker emitter connected to a network switch, with the receiver unit being used to trace a specific cable, indicated by a red signal icon.

Proster Wire Tracker with headphones and crocodile clips

Image: The Proster Wire Tracker receiver with headphones connected for use in noisy environments, and the emitter unit connected via crocodile clips for testing open or short circuits.

2. Network Cable Sequence Collation (RJ45)

This function checks the wiring sequence of RJ45 network cables (Ethernet cables).

  1. Connect one end of the RJ45 network cable to the RJ45 port on the emitter unit.
  2. Connect the other end of the RJ45 network cable to the RJ45 port on the receiver unit.
  3. Set the function selector switch on the emitter to the "TEST" position.
  4. Observe the numbered LEDs (1-8 and G for ground) on both the emitter and receiver.
  5. The LEDs should light up sequentially (1 to 8) on both units. If the sequence is incorrect, or if certain LEDs do not light up, it indicates a wiring fault (e.g., open circuit, short circuit, crossed pairs).

T568A and T568B Color Codes

For proper network cable collation, understanding the standard wiring color codes is essential.

T568A and T568B Ethernet cable wiring color codes

Image: Diagram showing the pinout and color codes for T568A and T568B Ethernet cable standards. T568A sequence: White Green, Green, White Orange, Blue, White Blue, Orange, White Brown, Brown. T568B sequence: White Orange, Orange, White Green, Blue, White Blue, Green, White Brown, Brown.

3. Continuity Testing (Open/Short Circuit)

This function checks for open circuits (broken wires) or short circuits (wires touching) in various cables.

  1. Connect the crocodile clip cable to the emitter unit.
  2. Attach the red and black crocodile clips to the two ends of the wire or circuit you want to test.
  3. Set the function selector switch on the emitter to the "TEST" position.
  4. If there is continuity (no open circuit), the corresponding LED on the emitter will light up. If there is an open circuit, the LED will not light.
  5. For short circuits, multiple LEDs may light up or the sequence may be erratic.

4. DC Level Testing

This function can detect the presence of DC voltage on a line.

  1. Connect the emitter unit to the line using the appropriate connector (RJ11, RJ45, or crocodile clips).
  2. Set the function selector switch on the emitter to the "TEST" position.
  3. Observe the "VERIFY" LED on the emitter. If DC voltage is present, this LED will illuminate.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and accuracy of your Proster Wire Tracker.

Troubleshooting

Refer to the following common issues and their solutions.

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
No signal detected during wire tracking.Low batteries; Emitter not powered on or not in SCAN mode; Cable not properly connected; Target cable too far or signal too weak.Replace batteries; Ensure emitter is ON and in SCAN mode; Check cable connections; Move receiver closer to the cable; Use headphones.
Network cable test shows incorrect sequence or missing lights.Cable fault (open, short, crossed wires); Incorrect connection to RJ45 ports.Inspect the cable for damage; Re-crimp RJ45 connectors if necessary; Ensure both ends are fully inserted into the tester ports.
Device does not power on.Dead or incorrectly installed batteries.Check battery polarity; Replace with fresh 9V batteries.
Signal is too faint or unclear.Low batteries; High ambient noise; Signal interference.Replace batteries; Use headphones; Try to minimize external interference.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the product packaging or contact PROSTER customer service directly. Specific warranty terms and support contact details are not provided within this manual.

Manufacturer: Proster

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