Ideal Test-Tone-Trace VDV Test Kit 33-866

Key Features:

• Test cables, tone cables, and trace cables with one kit
• Voice/Data/Video LCD based wire mapper verifies cable continuity
• Identifies errors by pin: shorts, opens, mis-wires, reversals, and split pairs
• Amplifier probe included
• Designed, for, CAT3, CAT5e, CAT6, CAT6A, RG59, RG6, RG6 Quad, RJ45, RJ11, RJ12, cable testing
• Kit Includes: VDV Main Test Unit with 1 Remote, Amplifier Probe with Volume Control; Carrying Case; RJ45 Alligator Clip Cable Assembly; 12” RJ45 Patch Cables; 4” RJ11 Patch Cables; 4” F-Male Coax Patch Cables; F-Male to BNC-Female Adapter; F-Female to BNC-Female Adapter; F-Male to RCA-Female Adapter; F-Female to RCA-Female Adapter; F-81 Adapter; Instruction Manuals; 2 9V Batteries.

The IDEAL® VDV Multimedia Voice/Data/Video Wiremapper and Tester is a versatile, all-in-one LCD-based tool designed to verify the proper wiring of low-voltage and data communications cables. Its primary function, the wiremap test, visually displays, pin by pin, whether a cable is terminated correctly and if there is continuity from end to end. This handy device can test data/ethernet RJ45 (8P8C), voice/phone RJ11/12 (6P6C/6P4C), and video/coax cables, with the LCD showing “PASS” or “ERROR” after each test to confirm proper termination. In Data Mode, the RJ45 port tests connectors terminated to CAT5e/6/6a twisted pair cables. 

The IDEAL® Prone Tone & Probe Kit

Easily locate, trace, and identify copper cables with the IDEAL® Amplifier Probe and Tone Generator Kit. The tone generator features RJ11/12 and coax F-female interfaces, making it ideal for testing both coax and twisted pair cables. Detachable alligator clips are included to send tone on any de-energized copper cables, such as electrical cables, speaker wires, and alarm cables. With three user-selectable tone patterns, the generator emits tones on all conductors of the port under test, ensuring a stronger signal and easier cable identification. The tone generator also includes a continuity test setting for positively identifying cables and verifying continuity, as well as a Talk Batt setting to provide power for butt-sets. An auto-off feature engages after three hours to conserve battery life. The amplifier probe picks up analog signals from the tone generator, making them audible. It features an adjustable volume control knob, suitable for both loud and quiet environments, and a replaceable plastic probe tip for tracing and identifying cables within a bundle. Additionally, the amplifier probe is compatible with all IDEAL® tone generators and the tone functions on wiremap-based testers that include a tone generator. This kit provides everything you need for efficient and accurate cable identification and testing.

• Tone Generator and Amplifier Probe units in one single kit
• RJ11/12 and F port interfaces
• Three tone settings
• Adjustable volume control
• Alligator clips for testing other de-energized cables
• Continuity testing and talk set power settings
• Carrying case and RJ11 patch cable included

The IDEAL 33-856 VDV tester is a really simple tool to use. 

It must be because it took me just five minutes to get to grips with it! 

VDV stands for Voice, Data and Video and the unit tests end-to-end wiring, continuity and correct wiring. It is suitable for testing twisted pair, coaxial and phone type cables. The unit feels robust and has three buttons to select which type of cable you are testing. A small remote unit unplugs from the base of the tester and can be plugged into one end of the cable under test, whilst the other end is connected to the cable tester. Testing occurs automatically and is clearly indicated on the screen.   

Video/coaxial cable testing will check for open or short circuits and utilises a link out connector which is conveniently housed in the remote base. When used on data and phone cables it will check for shorts, opens, out of order wires, reversals, and errors with split pairs. While testing leads can literally be achieved with the handheld unit, outlets require the use of a proven fly lead so buyers may consider buying this unit as part of a kit which also comes with a range of connectors and fly leads to permit the testing of a range of outlets and coaxial leads. Alternatively, you can do what I did and make some up pretty easily yourself.  

Another useful feature that I found with this unit is the ability to put a tone signal onto a cable. Again, the tester can be coupled with an amplifier probe to permit the tracing and identifying of cables that may be muddled up in large unlabelled bundles. This is a real time saver!  Although this product is a little more expensive than some of the cheaper testers that utilise sequences of illuminated LED indicators, this handy tool certainly won’t break the bank and gives the user a much clearer read out of the faults. If you’re involved with domestic or small commercial wiring of VDV systems this unit will prove to be worth every penny.