Hardware/Networking Tools

Punch-down tool

Punch a wire into a wiring block.

Loopback plug

Testing physical ports. "Trick" an application. It is not the same as a cross-over cable. Test NETWORK connectivity.

Cable Crimper

"Pinch" the connector onto a wire, coax, twisted pair, fiber. Connect the modular connector to the Ethernet cable. Metal prongs are pushed through the insulation.

Wi-Fi Analyzer

Identify errors and interference. Validate antenna location and installation. Optimal WAP placement. Measure signal strength.

Multimeter is used for...

Measures voltage, amps (current), and resistance (ohms) Properties of an electrical current Wall outlets (AC voltage) Power supply output voltages (DC voltage) CMOS battery power (DC voltage) Continuity: Fuse status Continuity: Cable connectivity

You have been asked to verify that a server rack has been properly installed and grounded. Which tool should you utilize to verify that the server rack is properly grounded?

Multimeter A multimeter has the ability to measure the voltage, amperage, and resistance of a circuit. If you use the lowest ohms (resistance) setting, you can touch the multimeter's black lead to a grounded metal surface and touch the red lead to each wire of the circuit. If you get a meter reading of zero ohms (low resistance), then this indicates that the circuit is properly grounded. If you get a meter reading of infinity, O.L., Open Loop, or a needle that pegs high on the meter, this indicates an open circuit with no path to ground.

Cable Tester parts and functions

A basic tester consists of: A source of electrical current A measuring device that shows if the cable is good A connection between the two, usually the cable itself A network cable tester can be a simple apparatus that merely identifies whether current flows through the cable, or it may be a professional-level, complex device that gives additional information that helps identify the problem.

Docking station vs port replicator

A docking station provides additional capability to a laptop and further expansion of its capabilities. For example, a docking station can provide power, external monitor connections, additional storage, and even CD/DVD drives in them. A port replicator, on the other hand, is simply a device that plugs into a single port, such as a USB port, and then gives you access to additional common ports like serial, USB, parallel, PS/2 (keyboard and mouse connectors), and sometimes even audio jacks. Generally, a port replicator just gives you easy access to the existing functionality in a laptop, but a docking station can provide additional capabilities to the laptop, as well.

Repeater

A repeater is an electronic device that receives a signal and re-transmits it. Repeaters are used to extend transmissions so that the signal can cover longer distances or be received on the other side of an obstruction. Repeaters may be wired or wireless, and they simply rebroadcast whatever signal is received through their transmitter.

Multimeter

AC voltage--check the wall outlet. DC voltage--check the power supply output.

Cable Tester is used for...

Connectivity Crossed wires Missing wires Identify missing pins Signal interference/strength/loss Data levels/network speed Dim light = poor connection No light = no connection

Tone Generator & Probe

Where does that cable go? Follow the tone. Puts an analog sound on the wire. Inductive probe.