Proster Network Cable Tester ET617 User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the Proster Network Cable Tester ET617. This multi-functional device is designed for network engineers and electricians, offering comprehensive testing capabilities for various network and electrical applications. It combines features such as PoE testing, wire tracing, cable length measurement, voltage testing, continuity testing, cable fault detection, port flashing, NCV function, and an integrated RJ45 crystal head crimping function.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• 1 x Receiver
• 1 x User Manual
• 1 x Testing Clip Line
• 1 x Network Cable
• 1 x Recharging Line
• 1 x Storage Bag

Figure 2.1: Proster Network Cable Tester ET617 with included accessories, including the main unit, wire tracker receiver, cables, and storage bag.

3. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the components of the Proster Network Cable Tester ET617.

Figure 3.1: Detailed view of the Proster Network Cable Tester ET617 (Transmitter) and Wire Tracker Receiver, with key components labeled for identification.

Transmitter (Main Unit)

1. Network Cable Jack: For connecting network cables for testing.
2. Length/Flash/PoE Test Port: Dedicated port for cable length measurement, port flashing, and Power over Ethernet (PoE) testing.
3. Display: VA color screen for displaying test results and settings.
4. Push Buttons: For mode selection and navigation.
5. Tracing Sensor: Detects signals from the receiver during wire tracing.
6. Flashlight: Built-in LED for illumination in dark environments.
7. Charging Port / LED Lighting / NCV Sensor: Multi-purpose port for charging, LED indicator, and Non-Contact Voltage detection.

Receiver (Wire Tracker)

6. Sound/Sensitivity Adjusting Wheel: Controls the volume and sensitivity of the receiver.
7. Flashlight Switch: Activates the receiver's LED flashlight.
8. SCAN Button: Initiates the wire tracing scan mode.
9. RJ45 Cable Jack: For connecting network cables to the receiver.
10. Connection Indication: Visual indicator for signal detection.

4. Features

• All-in-One Network Cable Tester: This advanced device offers comprehensive testing for standard and non-standard PoE, digital/analog wire tracing, cable length measurement up to 400m, voltage testing up to 60V, continuity testing, cable fault detection, port flashing, NCV function, and a built-in RJ45 crystal head crimping function.
• NCV Measurement & Anti-Burn Protection: The Non-Contact Voltage (NCV) mode allows for safe detection of live voltage without direct contact. The intelligent anti-burn protection prevents damage to internal components from incorrect operation, enhancing safety and device longevity.
• PoE Test: Measures and analyzes Power over Ethernet (PoE) power supply devices, including voltage and polarity of the power supply line. It can also detect and switch between 10M/100M/1000M modes.
• VA Color Screen & Port Flash: Features a VA color display screen and an analog bargraph for clear and easy reading of results. An adjustable volume control is included for use in various environments. The port flashing function helps quickly identify the target cable port by causing the connected switch port indicator light to flash approximately once every 3 seconds.
• Engineered for Professionals: Includes a built-in LED flashlight for working in dark environments and rechargeable batteries to reduce the need for frequent battery replacement. It is ideal for security monitoring, communication wiring, integrated wiring, and other low-current systems. Equipped with an RJ45 remote interface, it is suitable for CAT5, CAT5e, CAT6, CAT6A, CAT7, and CAT8 cables.

5. Setup

1. Battery Installation: Ensure the device has sufficient power. The main unit uses rechargeable batteries, while the receiver may use AAA batteries (included). Refer to the battery compartment for correct polarity.
2. Charging: Connect the main unit to a power source using the provided recharging line when the battery indicator is low.
3. Power On/Off: Press and hold the power button on the main unit to turn it on or off. The receiver typically has a separate power switch.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1. Wire Tracing (Digital/Analog)

This function helps locate specific cables among a bundle.

1. Connect one end of the network cable to the Network Cable Jack on the Transmitter.
2. Turn on the Receiver and select the desired tracing mode (Digital or Analog).
3. Use the Receiver's probe to scan the cables. The Receiver will emit an audible tone and/or visual indication when the target cable is detected.
4. Adjust the Sound/Sensitivity Adjusting Wheel on the Receiver for optimal detection.

Figure 6.1: The Proster Network Cable Tester ET617 main unit and receiver performing wire tracing, indicating the detection of a specific cable with red and blue lights for analog and digital signals.

6.2. PoE Test

To test Power over Ethernet (PoE) devices:

1. Connect the network cable from the PoE source to the Length/Flash/PoE Test Port on the Transmitter.
2. Select the PoE test mode on the Transmitter.
3. The display will show the PoE voltage, power supply polarity, and potentially the power supply mode (e.g., 10M/100M/1000M).

Figure 6.2: The Proster Network Cable Tester ET617 displaying PoE test results, showing voltage and pin assignments for a connected PoE switch.

6.3. Voltage Test

To check voltage, including battery or phone line voltage:

1. Connect the testing clip line to the appropriate ports on the Transmitter.
2. Attach the clips to the object to be measured (e.g., battery terminals).
3. Select the Voltage Test mode. The display will show the voltage reading and indicate positive/negative polarity (flashing number for positive, non-flashing for negative).

Figure 6.3: The Proster Network Cable Tester ET617 performing a voltage test on a 9V battery, displaying the voltage reading on its screen.

6.4. Cable Test (Open, Short, Sequence) & Continuity Test

To test network cable integrity and continuity:

1. Connect one end of the network cable to the Network Cable Jack on the Transmitter and the other end to the RJ45 Cable Jack on the Receiver.
2. Select the Cable Test mode on the Transmitter.
3. The display will show the wire sequence and identify any open circuits, short circuits, or crossed pairs. For continuity, "OO" indicates a good connection, while "OL" indicates an open circuit.

Figure 6.4: The Proster Network Cable Tester ET617 demonstrating both cable testing (left) and continuity testing (right) modes, showing the main unit and receiver connected via a network cable.

6.5. NCV Detection

For non-contact voltage detection:

1. Select the NCV mode on the Transmitter.
2. Place the NCV sensor near the object to be measured (e.g., electrical outlet).
3. The device will indicate if voltage is present without direct contact.

Figure 6.5: The Proster Network Cable Tester ET617 performing NCV (Non-Contact Voltage) detection near an electrical outlet, indicating the presence of a charge.

6.6. Port Flashing

To quickly locate a connected port on a switch or router:

1. Connect the network cable to the Length/Flash/PoE Test Port on the Transmitter.
2. Connect the other end of the cable to a port on the network device (switch/router).
3. Activate the Port Flash mode on the Transmitter. The corresponding port's indicator light on the network device will flash, allowing for easy identification.

6.7. RJ45 Crystal Head Crimping Function (QC)

To verify the quality of crimped RJ45/RJ11 connectors:

1. Insert the crimped RJ45 or RJ11 connector into the designated QC port on the Transmitter.
2. Select the QC mode. The device will perform a qualification test and display the results, indicating if the crimp is correct.

Figure 6.6: The Proster Network Cable Tester ET617 performing a Quality Check (QC) on a crimped RJ45 connector, displaying the test results on its screen.

6.8. LED Flashlight

The built-in LED flashlight on both the Transmitter and Receiver can be used for illumination in dark working conditions.

Figure 6.7: The LED flashlight feature of the Proster Network Cable Tester ET617 receiver being used to illuminate a dark area with network cables.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Use the provided storage bag for protection.
• Battery Care: For rechargeable batteries, ensure regular charging to maintain battery health. If the device is not used for an extended period, charge it periodically. For AAA batteries in the receiver, replace them when the low battery indicator appears.
• Cable Care: Inspect all cables and connectors regularly for wear or damage. Replace damaged cables to ensure accurate testing.

8. Troubleshooting

• Device Not Powering On: Check battery levels and ensure the device is charged or new batteries are installed correctly. Verify the power button is pressed and held sufficiently.
• Inaccurate Test Results: Ensure all cable connections are secure and correct. Check for damaged cables or connectors. Clean ports if necessary.
• Wire Tracing Not Working: Verify the Transmitter is sending a signal and the Receiver is in the correct mode with adequate sensitivity. Ensure no strong electromagnetic interference is present.
• Display Issues: If the screen is blank or unreadable, try restarting the device. If the issue persists, contact support.
• No PoE Voltage Reading: Confirm the connected device is a PoE source and that PoE is active. Check cable integrity.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Proster website or contact your retailer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.