In this section, we highlight essential tools for cable testing and termination

For projects involving copper cabling, installers primarily handle three key components: cables, plugs, and jacks. Initially, a cable stripper is required to carefully remove the jacket in accordance with the cable diameter, ensuring no damage occurs to the insulated conductor. Subsequently, a punchdown tool is indispensable for terminating the twisted pairs onto the jacks. Once the connection is established, a crimping tool is employed to securely press the plug blades down, establishing a connection with the cable and configuring the channel. Upon completion of these steps, a cable tester is utilized to validate the installation.

It's as straightforward as that.

Cable Tester

A palm-sized cable tester will promptly inform you whether or not the connection has been successfully established. Miswiring problems such as open and short circuits can be easily detected. As technology has advanced, we have integrated functions that can determine whether or not the cabling is PoE-ready by checking the resistance. Additionally, the port-mapping function is now available for easy identification of responding ports at remote end.

• Essential type - For verifying the connection status of the RJ45 port to port.
• Advanced type - It Gives details about port mapping, resistance checking, and connection status.
• PoE Detection - To identify the presence of IEEE 802.3af/at PoE voltage running through the cabling, as well as to determine the type of PSE (Model A or Model B) for troubleshooting purposes. 

RJ45 Plug - Crimping Tool

When it comes to Plug Crimpers, there is actually a wide range of variety. There's no definitive answer as to which one is the best; it simply depends on which tool best suits your needs and with which you are most comfortable. Here, we outline some key features that may assist you in easily identifying what you're looking for.

• Horizontal Pressing - The die-casting rises when the handle is squeezed. This concept design originated from a renowned brand and has garnered widespread recognition among users for its ability to evenly press the plug blades to the same height in each groove.
• Vertical Pressing - In contrast to horizontal pressing, the die-cast elevates vertically along the swinging path of the two handles. Similar to a plumber's wrench, you can intuitively crimp the plug blades when the cable is positioned sideways in front of you.
• Palm Size - Sacrificing the nice hand-feel of the ratchet in exchange for a smaller size. The reduced size makes the crimper more portable and easier to handle.
• Designed for use on "Thru-Plug" - For high-end Cat 6 or Cat 6A patching, the convenience of the "Thru-Plug" becomes increasingly popular for achieving higher pass rates. It's crucial to use the designated tool to complete "pressing the plug blades" and "cutting the wires" simultaneously.
• Lightweight and easy to carry around - This budget-friendly solution may not be as robust as a standard crimper, but it offers a much lighter weight as a trade-off. Nonetheless, it remains durable enough to effectively complete thousands of connections. 

IDC - Punchdown Tool

Choosing the right Punchdown Tool will save you a lot of labor costs, considering there are 8 wires that need to be pierced through IDC, requiring eight punchdowns. The last thing you want is a poor user-experience tool that causes you a lot of trouble, even if you eventually get the job done. It can be easily categorized as those designated for 110 blocks and the dual type for both 110 and KRONE connectors.

• For 110 block - The tool designed to terminate twisted pair cables into the most commonly used 110 IDC connector within a structured cabling system.
• For KRONE block - The tool for terminating the Krone LSA-PLUS block, a proprietary European alternative to the 110 block. 

IDC - EZ Terminator

Inspired by the RJ-45 plug crimper, why terminate each wire individually when you can press all the 8 wires down to pierce the insulated conductors and cut the excess wires simultaneously? Thus, innovation emerges. We call it EZ-Terminator.

• For 90-degree Keystone Jack - The tool only accepts the designated jack specifically. The receptacle and cutting die-blade are custom-made to fit the particular jack assigned. HCI has developed specialized toolings for KVA, KVE, and 30N series individually.
• For 180-degree Keystone Jack - Similar to the previously mentioned reason, we have a special receptacle and cutting die-blade that works perfectly with KHA series keystone jacks. You can truly experience increased speed with this tool!

IDC - EZ Parallel Plier

Toolless Keystone Jacks are becoming increasingly popular these days due to their time-saving mechanism. "Toolless" doesn't mean no tools are required; it actually means "no professional punchdown tool like the 110 impact tool is required." Like cracking a walnut, the tool literally offers parallel pressing movement when the handle is squeezed. 

Cable Stripper

Some RJ-45 crimpers offer cable-stripping as an additional function, but they are not as effective as the specialized tool. Letting the right tool do the right job is a wise move.

• For Small job & DIY users - Easy to use, with a finger loop for stripping the jacket.
• Advanced version - The adjustable knob allows for setting the precise blade height, preventing overcutting of the jacket and minimizing the risk of breaking insulated conductors.