Abestop ET728 Network Cable Tester User Manual

1. Introduction

The Abestop ET728 Network Cable Tester is a comprehensive tool designed for network and communication line installation and maintenance. It integrates multiple functions including cable length measurement, wiremap testing, wire tracking, crimping quality control, optical power measurement, visual fault location, and Power over Ethernet (PoE) testing. This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your ET728 device.

2. Safety Information

Please read all safety warnings and instructions carefully before using the device to prevent electric shock, injury, or damage to the product. Keep this manual for future reference.

• Do not use the device if it appears damaged or is operating abnormally.
• Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
• Use only the specified charging cable and power adapter to charge the device.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the device. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
• When using the Visual Fault Locator (VFL), avoid direct eye exposure to the laser beam.
• Exercise caution when performing Non-Contact Voltage (NCV) tests on live circuits.

3. Product Overview

The Abestop ET728 consists of a main tester unit and a receiver unit, designed for efficient network diagnostics.

3.1 Components

The ET728 set includes the following items:

• ET728 Main Tester Unit
• ET728 Receiver Unit
• RJ45 Cable (x1)
• Alligator Clip Cable (x1)
• USB Type-C Charging Cable (x1)
• Remote ID Units (x3)
• Carrying Bag
• User Manual (this document)

Figure 1: Abestop ET728 Network Cable Tester and Accessories

3.2 Key Features

• Cable Length Measurement: Accurately measures the length of various cables.
• Cable Wiremap: Detects short circuits, open circuits, and cross-connections in network cables.
• Wire Tracker (Scan): Helps locate target cables in bundles.
• Crystal Plug Crimping (QC): Verifies the quality of RJ45 connector crimps.
• Optical Power Measurement: Measures optical power for fiber optic cables.
• Red Laser/Visual Fault Locator (VFL): Identifies breaks and bends in fiber optic cables.
• PoE Measurement: Detects PoE voltage and polarity.
• Accounting Function: Records cable lengths and calculates costs for projects.
• Non-Contact Voltage (NCV) Testing: Detects live AC voltage without direct contact.
• Port Flash: Helps identify connected ports on network switches.

4. Setup

4.1 Charging the Battery

The ET728 main unit and receiver are equipped with rechargeable lithium batteries. The main unit has a 1500mAh battery, and the receiver has an 800mAh battery. Use the provided USB Type-C cable and a 5V/2A/10W or higher power adapter to charge both units. The charging indicator will show the charging status.

4.2 Initial Connection

Before performing any tests, ensure both the main unit and the receiver are adequately charged. Connect the appropriate cables (RJ45, alligator clip) to the designated ports on the main unit and the receiver as required by the specific test function.

5. Operating Instructions

The ET728 features an intuitive interface with various testing modes accessible via the main menu. Use the navigation buttons to select the desired function.

5.1 Cable Wiremap Test

This function checks for continuity, short circuits, open circuits, and cross-connections in RJ45 network cables. Connect one end of the cable to the RJ45 port on the main unit and the other end to the receiver unit or a remote ID. The LCD will display the wiring sequence and any detected faults (Short, Cross, Break).

Figure 2: Cable Wiremap Test Display

5.2 Cable Length Measurement

The ET728 can measure the length of RJ45 8-core Ethernet cables, 4-core Ethernet cables, telephone cables, and BNC cables. Connect the cable to the main unit. Select the 'Cable Length' function from the menu. The device will display the measured length in meters or feet.

Figure 3: Network Cable Length Measurement

5.3 Wire Tracker (Scan)

This function helps locate specific cables within a bundle. Connect the main unit to the cable to be traced. Activate the 'Wire Tracker' function. Use the receiver unit to scan the cables; the receiver will emit an audible tone when it detects the signal from the main unit, indicating the target cable.

Figure 4: Wire Tracking Function

5.4 QC-Connector Crimping Test

This test verifies the quality of RJ45 connector crimps. Connect the crimped cable to the main unit. The device will analyze the connection and indicate if any individual wire cores are not properly crimped, ensuring reliable network connections.

Figure 5: QC-Connector Crimping Test

5.5 Optical Power Meter (OPM)

The OPM function measures the optical power of fiber optic cables. It supports a measurable range of -70 to +6dBm and is compatible with ST/SC/FC adapters. Select the OPM function and connect the fiber optic cable to the designated port. The display will show the power reading in various wavelengths (850nm, 980nm, 1300nm, 1310nm, 1490nm, 1550nm, 1625nm).

Figure 6: Optical Power Meter Function

5.6 Visual Fault Locator (VFL)

The VFL function uses a red laser to identify breaks, bends, and poor connections in fiber optic cables up to 10km/10mW. Select the VFL function and connect the fiber optic cable. The laser can be set to slow flash, fast flash, or continuous on mode to help visually locate faults.

Figure 7: Visual Fault Locator Function

5.7 PoE Test

This function measures Power over Ethernet (PoE) voltage and polarity. Connect the network cable to the PoE test port on the main unit. The device will display the PoE voltage and identify the power supply standard.

5.8 Accounting Function

The accounting function allows you to record up to 100 network cable lengths and calculate the corresponding total cost based on a user-defined unit price. This is useful for project management and cost estimation.

• Click the OK key to save data.
• Use the Up/Down keys to select unit price and unit adjustment.
• Press and hold the Up and Down keys simultaneously for 3 seconds to clear data.

Figure 8: Accounting Function Interface

5.9 Non-Contact Voltage (NCV) Test

The receiver unit features an NCV sensor to detect live AC voltage without direct contact. Select the NCV function and bring the receiver close to the electrical source. The device will indicate the presence of voltage, and the sensitivity can be adjusted.

Figure 9: NCV Test in Progress

5.10 Port Flash

The port flash function helps identify the corresponding port on a network switch. Connect the main unit to a network cable. Activate the 'Port Flash' function. The LED indicator on the connected switch port will flash, making it easy to locate the correct port.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the device in its carrying bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Battery Care: For long-term storage, charge the battery to approximately 50% every three months to prolong its lifespan.
• Calibration: While the device is factory calibrated, periodic checks against known good cables are recommended for critical applications.

7. Troubleshooting

• Device does not power on: Ensure the battery is charged. Connect the device to a power source using the Type-C cable.
• Cable Wiremap test shows 'Testing' indefinitely or 'Open' on all pins: Verify that both ends of the cable are securely connected to the main unit and the receiver/remote ID. Ensure the cable itself is not severely damaged.
• Inaccurate Cable Length Measurement: Ensure the cable is straightened as much as possible during measurement. Verify the correct cable type is selected in the settings.
• Wire Tracker not detecting signal: Check battery levels of both units. Ensure the main unit is transmitting a signal and the receiver is in scan mode. Adjust the sensitivity of the receiver.
• Port Flash not working: Confirm the network cable is properly connected to an active network switch. The switch port LED should flash. If not, check the switch's port status.
• No NCV detection: Ensure the receiver is powered on and the NCV function is selected. Increase the sensitivity setting if available.

8. Specifications

Figure 10: Product Parameters

9. Warranty and Support

For any questions, technical assistance, or support regarding your Abestop ET728 Network Cable Tester, please refer to the contact information provided with your purchase or visit the official Abestop website. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.