WireTraceUKFault library

Troubleshooting

Find the next useful test.

Start with a symptom, isolate one variable, and keep the result. A cable fault is one possibility—not the only one.

How do you narrow down a link fault?

Start by confirming the actual link rate and whether the problem affects one device, one outlet or several connections. Compare the same devices with a known-good short lead before replacing the installed cable. Change one variable at a time, and record the original symptom so you can repeat the check after repair.

  1. Record the link rate, affected devices and whether the link drops.
  2. Compare ports and patch leads one at a time with a known-good setup.
  3. Check the isolated cable with a suitable tester, then repeat the original test after repair.
Fault finding 7 min read

All eight lights pass. Why is Ethernet still at 100 Mb/s?

Eight continuity lights show that conductors connect from one end to the other. They do not prove correct pairing or gigabit performance. First confirm both ports support gigabit and negotiate automatically. Then substitute a known-good short lead, isolate the installed run, and check for split pairs, poor terminations and intermittent faults.

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Which related test could help next?

Use the related guides to check another part of the diagnosis once the first comparison is complete. Wiring, application support and power delivery are different questions, so a result in one area may leave another unresolved. Select the next test from the remaining symptom, rather than treating every PASS as a complete answer.

Tool selection 6 min read

Verification, qualification or certification?

Verification checks basic wiring. Qualification assesses support for a stated network application. Certification measures an installed link against a selected cabling standard and test limit. Choose the level from the job’s acceptance requirement: a continuity pass does not certify Cat6 or Cat6A, and the tester’s brand does not define the test level.

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PoE & cameras 7 min read

PoE voltage is present. Why does the camera keep rebooting?

A PoE voltage reading does not prove that enough power reaches a camera while it is working. Check the camera’s required PoE type, the port limit and the switch’s shared budget. Compare a short known-good copper lead with the installed run, and record what changes when infrared lighting, a heater or PTZ movement starts.

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Which references support these checks?

The references below support the terminology, documented tool capabilities and external cases used in this category. Manufacturer information applies to the named instrument; a published case records another author’s observations. Follow the linked guide for the relevant scope and limitations, and use the project specification to determine any required acceptance test.

WireTrace UK editorial teamPublished Updated