The Digital Tone and Probe Kit from Platinum Tools “allows tracing and locating of single or bundled cables that are connected to unpowered or active networks, such as phone lines, network cables, or coax cables,” the company explained when launching the product set recently.
The probe emits audible and visual signal-strength indicators, and the set offers built-in RJ-45 termination testing. It also accommodates status checks on analog phone lines, and features a built-in flashlight that the company describes as “high-intensity” for poorly lit workspaces.
On twisted-pair cables, the Digital Tone and Probe Kit delivers wiremap test, a shield-continuity indicator, and a cable-type indicator, identifying straight, cross, and other terminations. It also provides a continuity test of RJ-45 connectors, which detects continuity of the pins on both ends of the cable.
The kit features a silent mode, as well as an earphone jack for audio output.
With an MSRP of $144.95, the tone/probe kit’s “built-in test functions can verify proper termination of network cables or test for shorts in the single-ended test mode,” said George Jang, Platinum Tools product manager.