Network Tools - buaamer81/IT130-Networking-Wiki GitHub Wiki

🛠️ Network Tools

📘 Overview

Network technicians use specialized tools to build, test, and maintain cabling infrastructure. These tools fall into two categories:

  • Assembly & Installation Tools
  • Verification & Troubleshooting Tools

🔧 Assembly & Installation Tools

1. Crimping Tool

  • Attaches RJ-45 or RJ-11 connectors to twisted pair cables.
  • Some include a built-in wire stripper.
  • Must match cable type (solid vs stranded)​:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

2. Punchdown Tool

  • Pushes wire into insulation displacement connectors on patch panels and keystones.
  • Works with 66-blocks or 110-blocks.
  • Ensures firm connection with minimal interference​:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

3. Wire Stripper

  • Removes insulation without damaging the conductor.
  • Often included with crimping tools.

🔍 Verification & Troubleshooting Tools

4. Cable Tester

  • Tests for continuity, shorts, crossed wires, and wiremap.
  • Advanced models include TDR functions (distance-to-fault).
  • Essential for confirming proper terminations​:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

5. Multimeter

  • Measures voltage, resistance, and continuity.
  • Can test basic electrical properties of a cable​:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

6. Toner Probe (Fox & Hound)

  • Helps trace unidentified cables through walls or racks.
  • Tone generator sends signal; probe detects it.
  • Used to locate a specific cable among many​:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

7. Time Domain Reflectometer (TDR)

  • Sends pulse down copper cable and measures reflections.
  • Identifies exact distance to a break or short.
  • Fiber equivalent: OTDR​:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

8. Cable Certifier

  • Validates whether a cable meets TIA/EIA standards.
  • Tests for signal loss (attenuation), crosstalk, NEXT/FEXT.
  • Required for professional-grade installations​:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

9. Butt Set

  • Used by telecom techs to test analog phone lines.
  • Clips into 66- or 110-blocks.

📌 Other Tools

Tool Description
Line Tester Basic phone line checker for continuity or reversal
Protocol Analyzer Captures and examines network traffic (e.g., Wireshark)
Environmental Monitor Tracks temperature, humidity in telecom rooms
Cable Snips Cuts through thick cables cleanly

🧠 Exam Tip

🔎 Know which tool is used during installation (like punchdown or crimper) and which is used after installation (like tester or toner).

🔁 Related Terms

Return to: Chapter 3: Cabling and Topology