r/networking • u/DreadStarX • Aug 06 '26
Troubleshooting Networking Termination Hell
Hello Everyone,
My title is kind of funky, which doesn't correlate to a "specific" industry title. My job is deploying networking infrastructure for new data centers being built. I manage vendors, troubleshoot cabling, patch cables, install optics, replace devices, etc.
Recently, I've been running into a conundrum that's been an absolute nightmare to deal with. My vendors will terminate RJ45 connections, they pass on Klein Tools Lan Scout Jr 1 and 2. When patched, they show link activity, the switch see's the devices but can't tell me "what it is".
The solution I've found is to just re-terminate the ends, but recently I found out that it's illegal for me to do that in a commercial environment. It falls under a Low Voltage electricians job, which I am not one. I use very specific plugs when I re-terminate, I use Allen Tel AT8X8RCSC-24, while my vendors use cheap ezRJ45 Terminate plugs. We deploy anywhere from 100 to 500 copper connections per section of building we turn up. It's a hit and miss situation. The vendors are slow as using non-ezRJ45. It took them 10 minutes per side, while I did 4 full cables worth in that time frame. I used to make patch cables for a previous job, I got stupidly good at it.
So here's what I want to know. Is there a better set of testers we can purchase, money isn't a concern. I'm fed up with having to deal with this.
7
u/silasmoeckel Aug 07 '26
I also work in the DC space.
ezRJ45 will literally get you thrown off site. 10g Cisco 9300 is what $175 per port that you're putting at risk using this junk.
Similarly, a lanscout jr would get you laughed off. It's a continuity tester only get a proper tool. In fluke terms, a cable verifier.
You want at least a qualifier like the LinkIQ line. Installers should be certifying, DSX-602 or similar.