Proster TIMPST204 RJ45 Network Cable Tester

1. Introduction

The Proster TIMPST204 is a versatile RJ45 network cable tester designed for professional network maintenance. It features both digital and analog tracing modes for efficient cable location, Power over Ethernet (PoE) testing, precise voltage measurement, and continuity checks. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device to ensure optimal performance.

2. Product Overview

The Proster TIMPST204 consists of a main Transmitter unit and a Receiver unit. Familiarize yourself with the components shown below:

Figure 1: Proster TIMPST204 Transmitter and Receiver Components

Transmitter Components:

1. External Probe Connector
2. Power Switch
3. Voltage Detecting Button
4. Cable Testing Button
5. Display (LCD Screen)
6. Cable Tracing Button
7. Continuity Test Button
8. Signal Selection Button
9. Pairing Speed Adjusting Button
10. Battery Door

Receiver Components:

11. RJ45 Connector
12. Indicators (Signal Strength/Mode)
13. Mode Button (Digital/Analog)
14. Flashlight Switch
15. Scan Ready Indicator
16. Flashlight
17. Volume Adjusting Wheel
18. Tracing Probe
19. Battery Door

3. Setup

3.1 Battery Installation

The Transmitter unit requires 3 AA batteries, and the Receiver unit typically uses a 9V battery. Ensure batteries are installed correctly according to polarity markings.

1. Locate the battery doors (item 10 on Transmitter, item 19 on Receiver).
2. Open the battery doors using a suitable tool if necessary.
3. Insert the required batteries, observing the correct positive (+) and negative (-) terminals.
4. Close the battery doors securely.

Note: Remove batteries if the device will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Power On/Off

Press the Power Switch (item 2) on the Transmitter to turn the device on or off. The LCD display will illuminate upon power-on.

4.2 Wire Tracking (Cable Tracing)

This function helps locate RJ45 cables quickly using either digital or analog signals.

1. Connect the RJ45 cable to be traced to the RJ45 port on the Transmitter.
2. Press the Cable Tracing Button (item 6) on the Transmitter.
3. On the Receiver, press the Mode Button (item 13) to select either Digital (blue indicator) or Analog (red indicator) mode. Digital mode is recommended for reducing interference, while analog mode is useful for longer distances.
4. Adjust the Volume Adjusting Wheel (item 17) on the Receiver to a comfortable level.
5. Use the Tracing Probe (item 18) of the Receiver to scan the cables. The Receiver's indicators (item 12) and audible tone will guide you to the correct cable.

Figure 2: Wire Tracking in progress, showing digital and analog signal support.

4.3 PoE Voltage Testing

Test Power over Ethernet (PoE) cables to identify voltage, polarity, and power order without interrupting the network.

1. Connect the active Ethernet cable (from a PoE switch, router, or IP camera) to the RJ45 port on the Transmitter.
2. Press the Cable Testing Button (item 4) on the Transmitter. The device will automatically detect PoE.
3. The LCD display (item 5) will show the PoE voltage (up to 60V), polarity (positive/negative), and the power order of the active Ethernet cable.

Figure 3: PoE Voltage Testing showing voltage and wire pair status.

4.4 Voltage Test (DC)

Measure DC voltage for batteries or phone lines with high precision.

1. Connect the external probe to the External Probe Connector (item 1) on the Transmitter.
2. Connect the probe leads to the positive and negative terminals of the battery or phone line.
3. Press the Voltage Detecting Button (item 3) on the Transmitter.
4. The LCD display will show the measured DC voltage with an accuracy of ±0.3V. Flashing numbers indicate positive polarity, non-flashing numbers indicate negative polarity.

Figure 4: Voltage Test using the external probe on a 9V battery.

4.5 Cable Test (Wiremap)

Test RJ45 network cables for open circuits, short circuits, and correct line sequence.

1. Connect one end of the RJ45 cable to the Transmitter's RJ45 port.
2. Connect the other end of the RJ45 cable to the Receiver's RJ45 Connector (item 11).
3. Press the Cable Testing Button (item 4) on the Transmitter.
4. The LCD display on the Transmitter will show the wiremap. If the lines are connected correctly, the numbers on the display will match the moving numbers on the upper part of the wiremap indicator. Discrepancies indicate faults (e.g., open, short, cross).
5. The 'G' indicator on the display checks the continuity of the cable's shielding, important for professional network installations.

Figure 5: Cable Test (left) and Continuity Test (right).

4.6 Continuity Test

Check for open or short circuits in telephone lines or other conductors.

1. Connect the external probe to the External Probe Connector (item 1) on the Transmitter.
2. Connect the probe leads across the conductor you wish to test for continuity.
3. Press the Continuity Test Button (item 7) on the Transmitter.
4. The LCD display will show "00" if there is continuity (current can pass through). "OL" indicates an open loop (no continuity).

4.7 T-568A and T-568B Crimping Sequence

The device is compatible with standard RJ45 wiring sequences (CAT5, CAT5e, CAT6, CAT7, CAT8). Refer to the standard color codes for proper crimping:

Figure 6: T-568A and T-568B Wiring Standards

• T-568A: White/Green, Green, White/Orange, Blue, White/Blue, Orange, White/Brown, Brown
• T-568B: White/Orange, Orange, White/Green, Blue, White/Blue, Green, White/Brown, Brown

4.8 LED Flashlight

The Receiver unit includes an integrated LED flashlight (item 16) for working in dimly lit environments.

1. To activate the flashlight, slide the Flashlight Switch (item 14) on the Receiver.
2. Slide the switch again to turn off the flashlight.

Figure 7: LED Flashlight in use.

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Battery Replacement: Replace batteries when the low battery indicator appears on the LCD display to ensure accurate readings.
• Probe Care: Keep the tracing probe and external probe leads clean and free from damage.

6. Troubleshooting

• No Power: Ensure batteries are correctly installed and fully charged. Replace if necessary.
• Inaccurate Cable Tracing:
  • Adjust the Receiver's Volume Adjusting Wheel (item 17) to increase or decrease sensitivity.
  • Switch between Digital and Analog modes (item 13) to find the best signal in environments with high interference.
  • Ensure the Transmitter is properly connected to the cable being traced.
• Incorrect Wiremap Readings: Verify that both ends of the RJ45 cable are securely connected to the Transmitter and Receiver. Check for visible damage to the cable or connectors.
• Display Not Working: Check battery levels. If the issue persists after replacing batteries, contact customer support.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

Proster products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact Proster customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

For further assistance, please visit the official Proster website or contact your retailer.