Wire Tracker Reviews

### Introduction

Wire trackers are essential tools in installations, troubleshooting and maintenance operations related to electronic, network, or security systems. They simplify the process of finding, identifying or testing wires in such systems. With so many models on the market, finding the right one can be a challenge. This is where Wire Tracker Reviews come in handy. This guide provides detailed reviews of 10 different wire trackers available in the market. Each review covers key features, advantages, potential drawbacks, as well as a detailed product description.

### Product-by-Product Breakdown

1. **Product Title: Klein Tools VDV526-052 LAN Scout Junior Network Tester**

The LAN Scout Jr. is a handy network tester from Klein, ideal for troubleshooting twisted pair cabling. Its ease of use and compact size make it perfect for quick, on-site network testing.

**Pros:**
– Easy to read results
– Compact size
– Continuity testing on twisted pair cabling

**Cons:**
– Basic functionality, no advanced features
– Lacks a tone generator

**Details:** This tool is compact and light with a very straightforward operation, weighing a mere 0.3 pounds. It tests continuity on twisted pair cabling and gives an immediate indication of opens, shorts or miswires. Its simple design makes it really user friendly. This tool is perfect for professionals who require quick, convenient network testing and troubleshooting.

2. **Product Title: Fluke Networks MT-8200-60A IntelliTone Pro 200 Toner and Probe Kit**

Fluke’s IntelliTone Pro 200 is the first network cable toner and probe to offer digital and analog signaling all in one tool.

**Pros:**
– Accurate wire location
– Digital and Analog functionalities
– Locates cables on active networks

**Cons:**
– Expensive compared to other models
– Short battery life

**Details:** This kit features a hefty, durable design made to withstand heavy use. It can locate virtually any cable or wire pair with its smart tone technology regardless of work environment. Even on active networks, the IntelliTone Pro 200 can accurately trace and locate hidden wires. Although pricey, it provides premium features and capabilities perfect for seasoned professionals.

3. **Product Title: Tripp Lite T010-001-K Multi-Function Cable Tester with Wire Tracker**

The Tripp Lite T010-001-K is a multi-function tool, offering cable testing and wire tracking in one package.

**Pros:**
– Multi-functionality: Cable testing and Wire tracking
– Portable and compact
– Auto-off function conserves battery life

**Cons:**
– Complex to set-up
– No tone generator

**Details:** This product is a two-piece kit including a main unit and receiver probe, designed for portability and compactness. It tests wire continuity and traces wires, identifying individual wire pairs with its multiple LED indicators. Suitable for field technicians and IT professionals in need of a reliable, versatile tool for cable installations and repairs.

4. **Product Title: TRENDnet TC-NT3 VDV and USB Cable Tester**

The TRENDnet TC-NT3 is a VDV and USB cable tester, offering a comprehensive solution for cable installers and network technicians.

**Pros:**
– Tests a wide variety of cables: Ethernet, telephone, USB and more
– Comes with a handy carrying case
– Single button operation

**Cons:**
– No built-in wire tracing
– Does not test HDMI cables

**Details:** This tool is capable of testing almost all low voltage cables, providing full coverage for networking installations or trouble shooting. It operates on 2 AAA batteries and comes with a protective carrying case. A perfect tool for technicians who handle various types of networking cables on a daily basis.

5. **Product Title: Extech Instruments TG20 Wire Tracer/Tone Generator**

The Extech Instruments TG20 is a wire tracer and tone generator, designed for tracking wires within walls, floors, and ceilings.

**Pros:**
– Wire tracking within walls, floors, and ceilings
– Generates tone signal for clear wire identification
– Adjustable sensitivity

**Cons:**
– Range could be better
– Tone may be unclear in noisy environments

**Details:** This non-contact probe audibly identifies selected wire or cable within walls, floors, and ceilings. It has an adjustable sensitivity control for precise tracing of wires. It requires one 9V battery to operate. Suitable for home DIY’ers or electricians who need to find wires without damaging the walls or insulation.

6. **Product Title: Southwire Tools & Equipment M300P Professional VDV Cable Mapper**

The Southwire M300P provides an easy way to map out and test Ethernet, coaxial, and phone cables.

**Pros:**
– Robust, professional build
– Easy to use interface
– Tests up to 19 different locations simultaneously

**Cons:**
– Instructions could be clearer
– Somewhat expensive

**Details:** This tool is compact, robustly built, and boasts an easy-to-understand LED interface. This wire tracker can store and identify up to 19 different cables or wire locations simultaneously. Despite being somewhat expensive, it’s excellent for professional installers who need a versatile tool that delivers quality without compromise.

7. **Product Title: PTE Wire Tracer Circuit Tester**

PTE’s Wire Tracer is a well-rounded tool, perfect for identifying and tracing wires, as well as detecting faults in low voltage equipment and circuits.

**Pros:**
– Wide application range
– Affordable pricing
– LCD display for clear readings

**Cons:**
– Not for complex professional use
– Limited range

**Details:** Designed for simplicity, this wire tracer weighs around 0.5 lbs and comes with multiple connector cables, providing flexibility across a host of applications. It’s easy to use for beginners and hobbyists, and the price is reasonable without compromising quality and functionality.

8. **Product Title: NOYAFA NF-8208 Network Cable Tester**

The NOYAFA NF-8208 is an upgraded model that combines line finding, measuring length and network testing in one set, catering to a variety of needs.

**Pros:**
– Multi-functional
– User-friendly interface
– Great quality at a good price point

**Cons:**
– Short tone signal distance
– The instruction manual could be better

**Details:** The NF-8208 boasts a range of features including network cable elongation testing, network connection sequence indicator, and probe luminous instructions for low light conditions. It’s suitable for everyday testing and troubleshooting of various cables by professional installers or homeowners who have advanced knowledge.

9. **Product Title: Reed ST-5500 Line Tracer**

The Reed ST-5500 is a high-performance wire tracer designed to track and identify wires in walls and underground.

**Pros:**
– Excellent performance in walls and underground
– Includes a transmitter that can be adjusted to high or low frequency
– Easy-to-use design

**Cons:**
– Expensive
– Less effective in high-interference areas

**Details:** The ST-5500 is a feature-rich wire tracer, with an adjustable sensitivity and high or low frequency control to apply in various conditions. The high price point means it’s best suited for professionals or serious hobbyists who regularly conduct large-scale trace jobs.

10. **Product Title: Greenlee 701K-G/6A Professional Tone and Probe Tracing Kit**

Greenlee’s 701K-G/6A is a comprehensive tone and probe tracing kit perfect for tracking wires within walls, conduit, and circuit breakers.

**Pros:**
– Contains all necessary tracing equipment in one handy case
– Superior tracing for non-active circuits
– Can trace wires inside conduit

**Cons:**
– Does not function on live circuits
– Case latch quality could be improved

**Details:** The kit consists of a tone generator, probe, case, and probes, making it a versatile solution for various wire tracing needs. This tracing kit is ideal for electricians and telecom technicians who need to trace non-active circuits facilitated by its tone and probe functionalities.

### FAQ Section

1. **Do all wire trackers work on live circuits?** Not all wire trackers work on live circuits. It’s essential to check the specifications of the wire tracker before use.

2. **Can a wire tracker identify cables behind walls?** Yes, many high-quality wire trackers are capable of accurately locating wires behind ceilings, walls, and floors.

3. **What is the benefit of a tone generator in a wire tracker?** A tone generator emits a signal onto the wire which can then be detected by a compatible probe, this allows the technician to identify the route of a specific wire amongst many.

4. **Does a higher price indicate a better wire tracker?** Not necessarily, the best tracker depends on specific user needs. Price often corresponds to feature range and build quality, but cheaper models can serve basic requirements perfectly fine.

5. **Can a wire tracker test the integrity of a cable?** Some wire trackers do offer this functionality, allowing users to check for any faults, shorts, or open circuits.

### Conclusion

Selecting the right wire tracker isn’t easy, especially with so many models with varying features available. We hope our reviews of these 10 models will be valuable to your decision-making process. Top picks based on performance, versatility, and value for money include the Fluke Networks MT-8200-60A, Southwire Tools & Equipment M300P, and NOYAFA NF-8208. However, remember that the best wire tracker will depend on your specific use and buyer requirements.

Remember, a great wire tracker transforms the complexity of wire systems into handy work that drives efficacious results!