I’m in need of a cable crimper and some other network tools like a tone gen/probe, cable snipper/stripper, and I’ll probably also get a cable tester, for a couple of jobs I’ll be doing soon

So, I’m assembling a basic toolkit to install the physical network parts, and I’m asking here for recommendations on mid and high quality tools so I can decide on what to get

As one should do with tools, I’m ready to spend a buck (or euro, in this case) to get good and durable stuff, but these days looking for reviews online is a marketing shitshow, so I thought I’d come here to look for recommendations and try to find someone with actual practical knowledge and experience

Any advice is welcome!

  • @BigDanishGuyEnglish
    3•5 months ago

    I’ve bought more crimpers than most, because my students abuse the tools. In my experience you can overall get two types of crimping tools: the cheap non-ratcheting ones like https://dk.rs-online.com/web/p/krympeaerktoj/1052153, and the more expensive ones ratcheting ones like https://dk.rs-online.com/web/p/krympeaerktoj/4726762.

    I just got a couple of the cheap ones I linked, and they’re really shoddy, despite being 20euro before VAT. If I was to buy a crimping tool for my personal use, I’d look for a ratcheting tool in the sub 50euro category. I have used a tool similar to the expensive one, and they’re really nice, I’d look for a tool with the semi circular cutout for cutting the outer layer of the cable.

    Are you just going to be mounting plugs, or will you be dealing with the sockets as well? If yes, the you’d maybe want to look at getting a LSA punching tool, depending on the model of socket.

    I don’t know your time frame or budget, but a cable tester that goes beyond just testing connectivity is worth some money. I managed to get a fluke dsp4100 for less than 100 euro as Danish navy surplus. Maybe look at getting a used older tester, unless you need to document 10 gig capability.