How to Test an Ethernet Cable

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This wikiHow teaches you how to test an Ethernet cable. To test an Ethernet cable, you need a cable tester. There are different models of cable testers you can purchase. Some have a detachable receiver unit that you can use to test a cable across two rooms.

Steps

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  1. There are many models you can purchase. Make sure it has a battery in it and power it on.
  2. The transmit jack on the tester maybe be labeled "TX".
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  3. Some testers have a detachable receiver you can use to test the cable across different rooms. [1]
  4. Most testers will have 2 sets of 8 LED lights that correspond to the 8 pins on the transmitting and receiving end of the Ethernet cable. There will also be a G light for the ground. It will test each pin one at a time. If all 8 pins light up on both ends, the cable is good. If any of the lights do not light up on either end, this indicates a short in the cable. Don't worry if the G light doesn't light up. If the lights on either end flash out of order, this indicates that you are testing a crossover cable. As long as all 8 lights flash, the cable is good. [2]
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  • Question
    If no lights are showing, is my cable tester broken?
    Community Answer
    Yes. Most likely, your tester isn't working.
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  • Question
    Is it possible that when using a tester, the cable checks as good, yet it does not work?
    Bigbigbignthvsd
    Community Answer
    Maybe. It is a possibility. The ethernet cable "could: work, but you never know until you try.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
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    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 3
  • Question
    I have 8 lights showing but my laptop says "cable not connected", so no signal. What is the issue?
    Community Answer
    Try to reconnect the cable again. Doing this may resolve your issue.
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    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 4
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_7LKqiWrdk
      2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pdJ2aVrMPQ

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      1. Purchase an Ethernet cable tester.
      2. Plug cable into the transmitter.
      3. Plug the other end of the cable into the receiver.
      4. Check that all 8 lights on the tester light up.

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