Review on Klein Tools VDV501 829 Commander Test N Map: A Complete Solution for Network Testing and Mapping by Dakota Afzalian

Unbeatable for all its features and all the accessories that come with it. I've been using it regularly for almost 2 years (since Feb 2016) on installation projects and for troubleshooting, particularly cable length, pair matching, tinting, identification and documentation functions - on both twisted pair and coax. The tester, soft case and accessories are of good design and durability. The link and POE ability tests are also great features. Unfortunately, the device originally shipped with buggy vC.1352 firmware, making it VERY slow to return certain test results. Klein acknowledged the issue, but said there was no ETA from his OEM to fix it, it wasn't possible to downgrade the firmware, and there were no more units with the previous firmware in stock. They offered a refund but I was using them for other functions and decided to wait. Finally, on 10/13/17, Klein informed me about the new firmware vC.1354 and the problem was solved. I look forward to using the POE and Link skill tests regularly! Kudos to Klein for keeping the ticket open, tracking down the problem, and closing the cycle. I've learned that there are three different versions of the VDV501: the C, E and L series, each using a different firmware. I have a C series and can't say for sure if the communication/POE error has existed in other versions. You can pay A LOT more for a couple of testers to get all the features, but the VDV501-829 kit is reliable and gets the job done for a reasonable price.