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799 Review
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Review on TRENDnet TC-TP1 Network Signal Testing Probe with Adjustable Volume, Speaker and Compatibility for TC-NT2 by Guerdon Draper

Revainrating 3 out of 5

Good product, bad documentation

I'm revising my original review of this probe as it died just before an all day project. First review: the instructions that came with the probe could have been more detailed. A: The LED doesn't always light up, but I've read in other reviews that it only lights up when the signal is strong. I wish this was better documented. Update: There is no definitive answer to this question yet. First check: Whether you go to the phone or network settings, it doesn't seem to prevent the sound from being produced when testing a signal going through an ethernet cable. I don't know what to do with it. Again, no documentation other than a simplified diagram showing which position is for phone and which is for ethernet. Update: The raised lettering 66 vs. 110 is ambiguous, but if you look closely, it's on the case. Source Verification: The volume control works well to help you isolate the wire carrying your sound, or you can rotate it to find a common sound source remotely or through a drywall. Update: This was a useful feature when this device worked, but it is expected and common to all probes. Initial Review: I am using this probe in combination with the TRENDnet 10/100 COAX and TP Cable Tester (TC-NT2) and they appear to be fully compatible. Update: TRENDnet's cable tester also works well with my new Fluke 3000 Pro probe set. (found at Lowes for $75.97) So if your TRENDnet probe fails, you are not "bound" to replace it with another TRENDnet probe. This probe worked reasonably well for a few weeks, and yours could last a lot longer. But I tend to think you get what you pay for. I think it might just be weak solder joints that broke along the way. I have carefully stored the probe in its original packaging, protecting it every time I work. My advice: if you're going to buy another probe, spend a little more money for a probe with a better chance of durability. If you already own a TRENDnet sensor, enjoy it while it lasts!

Pros
  • New
Cons
  • Slightly torn