Network Tools and Their Purpose

Computer networks are used to connect one computer to another so as to facilitate a transfer of data. The Internet, of course, is the largest network in the world. There are many different types of networks. The two basic types are wireless networks and wired networks. Wireless networks use Wi-Fi routers to connect computers and other devices to the Internet wirelessly.

Even though most homes and organizations use wireless networks and Wi-Fi routers nowadays, there is still a widespread need for wired networks. Wired networks are known to be much stronger and faster than wireless ones and they are also less expensive as compared to wireless networks. Another perk of having a wired network is that you do not need to worry about any interference from the presence of other users on the same wireless channel.

However, creating and maintaining a wired network requires the use of many components like Cat5 and Cat6 bulk cables, Ethernet cables, phone, USB, and FireWire cables as well as patch panels. Furthermore, in order to maintain and troubleshoot a wired network, other networking tools and accessories are also needed.

At CMPLE.com, we take pride in hosting all these networking accessories, tools, and components. We make shopping for them easy for you because they are all available at the click of a button.

Crimping Tools

A crimping tool is one of the most crucial network connecting tools. In order to connect a connector to the cable, you will need a tool to crimp or connect. Known as the crimping tool, this tool is used to connect RJ-45, RJ-11 and other connectors to the end of a cable. Some crimping tools have a built-in wire cutter near the handle. This wire cutter can be used to cut a phone cable or a Cat5 cable.

While using a crimping tool, the wires that need to be crimped are first placed into the connector. Once this is done, the jack with the wires is placed in the designated slot of the crimping tool and the handles of the tool are squeezed tight. By doing this, you can ensure that the plastic connector you are using punctures the wires inside and holds them all in place. This prevents the wires from loosening and coming out. If the wires are crimped securely in place, data can be easily transmitted by every wire. We offer several varieties of crimping tools such as the hex crimp tool.

Network Cable Tester

One of the problems with wired networks is that when they cease to work, troubleshooting may be a little more difficult as compared to wireless networks. This is where a network cable tester can help you. A network cable tester is a useful device that allows you to check the continuity of the cable to figure out if the signal is strong enough to get through to the network. This helps to eliminate cable connectivity issues while troubleshooting the problems.

It is important to remember that you should never connect a live wire circuit to a network cable tester. It should be used only after the cable has been disconnected from the router, modem, and a computer. Generally, a network cable tester has two parts – the tester and remote. Most testers work with two or three connectors. In general, they will have an Ethernet RJ-45 connector, telephone cable RJ-11 connectors and one BNC for the coaxial cable.

The remote has connectors for Ethernet and telephone cable. Using a network cable tester is a simple affair. All you have to do is connect the cable to the right port on the tester and connect the remote to the other end. Once you run the network cable tester, you will be able to figure out if the network problem lies in the connectivity. If it doesn’t, you will have ruled it out and can continue troubleshooting.

Coaxial Compression Tool

The coaxial cable is the cable that includes the outer metal that does the conducting. A central conducting core ensures that the metal is insulated. High frequency signals are transmitted through this coaxial cable line. A coaxial compression tool is a useful device that uses connectors to properly compress the coaxial cable. The side of the cable wire will enable you to know which type of cable it is.

You will need to use a connector that is the right fit with the cable wire. Using the male and female F-style and N-type connectors you will be able to connect the coaxial wire. Once the connector is attached, it is a simple matter to use the compression tool and compress the coaxial cable by closing the level and sealing tightly.

Punch Down Tool

The punch down tool is also known as the Krone tool. It is small tool that is used most frequently by network troubleshooting technicians. The basic purpose of a punch down tool is to insert wires into various devices like pinch down blocks, patch panels, surface mount boxes, and more with the help of insulation-displacement connectors.

The impact type of punch down tool is the most popular and commonly used one. The impact punch down tool consists of a slot for inserting removable blades, an internal spring impact mechanism and a handle to hold the tool. Other than just inserting the wire, a punch down tool can also be used to cut off the excess wire. Some punch down tools come with a fixed blade and may even lack an impact mechanism. Ensure that you are acquiring the right type of punch down tool to suit your needs. If you need it for a large number of connections, an impact mechanism can make life much simpler and stave off muscle fatigue.

CMPLE.com is your one-stop-shop for all online tech shopping. Everything that you may need pertaining to networking, accessories, and tools is available to you right here. From crimping tool kits with network testers and modular plugs to universal compression tools, we make shopping easy for you!