Data cable testers provide a useful, user-friendly method of checking that copper and fibre optic data cables (video, audio, and data) have been correctly terminated at both ends of an installation. They work by performing a wire map of the cable which checks whether the paired wires within the cable correspond with the correct terminals at either end of the wire. 99% of faults in data cables occur due to incorrect punching down so data cable testers can save lots of time by simply indicating where a cable needs to be re-punched.
Each data cable tester provides the user with a simple PASS/FAIL indication alongside two lists of numbers which should correspond with each other in the event of a pass indication. Cable testers vary in their capabilities but each one performs this basic function.
In addition to a wire map, data cable testers also offer functions such as distance-to-fault readings and a transmission test which simulates actual activity on the network to check it is fit for purpose. It is also useful to consider whether they can prove a printed guarantee of correct installation, whether this is a simple printed document or a manufacturer's guarantee for business-critical networks.