DataShark Network Cable Tester - Cable Mapper, Check Continuity - Test Patch Cords or Installed Cable Runs

For the nice low price, this does the job quickly and effectively. Drop your cable in and it will quickly rotate through, checking connectivity on each pin. As I would imagine is the case with all cheaper cable testers, this isnt *entirely* idiot proof, but its close enough.

Very nice. Works just how I wanted and in the correct price point. I use it every once in a while but it helps to keep from asking a friend if I can use his. Great investment for cable making.

My home network has grown into two wireless routers, two switches, three DVRs, an Xbox, four computers... Geez, it didnt seem complex until I thought about it. Ive been having occasional issues with the network, causing me to reset routers and switches, maybe try unplugging and replugging and rebooting devices... Just enough to be annoying, as it worked most of the time. I spent an hour with this simple device and loved it. It doesnt get easier; the source lights up lights 1-8 in order, and if all is well, 1-8 on the box (if a patch cable is plugged into both holes) or dongle (if checking an installed cable) will light up in sequence as well. I discovered 4 of 11 wires and jacks had issues, including a commercial cable I never would have suspected. Lets just say I now have tremendous respect for the magic boxes ability to work even with messed up cabling; having had this network for years, I now dont know how it ever worked. Now, all is well with my network world, thanks to this device. If youre going to buy a crimper and RJ-45 blanks, your next step should be to buy this. Now, I wont even use a commercial cable without testing it with this device. It gives both great results, a tested network, and peace of mind for a reasonable price.

Meter did not work. Wouldnt even test the sample cables provided with the product.

This target has saved me some time and trouble. I made a few cat 5e cables and used this to test them. Of course I mucks up one of the cables and this saved me the time of using the cable and then ending up troubleshooting.

I used this to troubleshoot why the network jacks werent working in the house. It comes with two short patch wires, ran one patch wire from the network jack in the living room to the small remote piece. Then ran downstairs where the network lines come in and plugged the other end into the out port on the main controller. Turned it on and watched the bank of lights on the right side cycle 1 upto 8. Ran upstairs and saw the bank of lights running 8 down to 1. Couldnt believe I didnt notice the network line was wired completely backwards, but the lights didnt lie. Rewired the one end (Bought a datashark crimping tool from homedepot) and voila .. tis working.

Awesome product. Traced my wires quickly and cheaper than having it come out. Great product for the diy’er

This is a reliable tester. It has never mis led me. It is tough, it gets dropped and banged around like most tools, yet it continues to work.

Bought one of these at Home Depot. It was DOA -- didnt function at all (aside from the power light).

Get what you pay for. Bought this cheap tester cause my regular tester broke after someone dropped it. Worked fine for about a week before lights for conductors 1&2 went out. Cables tested with Southwire 400TP all passed but pins 1&2 would not light with Datashark when tested. Could only recommend for the DIY guy at home.