I am interested in purchasing some LAN testing equipment such as a cable tester and tone generator/probe. I am interested in the LANRover(TP500) and LANRover Pro(TP600) along with the Tone tracer(TT100).
TP500
TP600
TT100
Just wondered if anyone had any experience with these devices, compared to the Fluke Microscanner Pro, which is rated pretty highly by many professional. I am mainly concerned with becoming familiar with the troubleshooting techniques involved with LAN management and installation. I would like to become familiar with some of the electronic testers without wasting time and money on units that are not worth having. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,

Scott Neidert
CompTIA Network+
MCP

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I have the Microscanner Pro, and use it often. Although the Microscanner does have a few more features than the instruments shown (it will detect 10 or 100 Mb line speed, and you can use multiple remotes to several ports, etc.), at $400+accessories, the Microscanner can be a pricey investment. I have mostly (98% of the time)used the MP to do just what the LANRover equipment will do, so it appears you will get a better "bang for your buck" going with the LANRover equipment.

I haven't used this brand, so I can't vouch for the quality, so perhaps another member has actually used these instruments.

Another couple tools to add to your kit. Go to a auto parts store and purchase a mechanics extension mirror (a few bucks) for looking around curves and corners. I don't know how many times I've been looking for the number on a face plate that is on a wall jack behind a desk too heavy to move. This mirror can be a lifesaver.

Also, get a inexpensive (a few dollars as well)analog phone line tester - usually in the telecom tools at any hardware store. All it does is light green if the analog connection in the closet is "live". This can be helpful troubleshooting fax and modem wall connections. In addition you might want to purchase a cheap "Conair" analog phone for testing for dialtone and the phone number on an analog wall jack. Sure you could invest a couple hundred for a telecom butt set, but this Conair phone will do the trick for a Network tech who works a bit with analog phone lines at times.

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Another couple tools to add to your kit. Go to a auto parts store and purchase a mechanics extension mirror (a few bucks) for looking around curves and corners. I don't know how many times I've been looking for the number on a face plate that is on a wall jack behind a desk too heavy to move. This mirror can be a lifesaver.

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