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Klein Tools VDV501-851 ScoutÂ® Pro 3 Tester Starter Kit

TLDR Review: Klein Tools Scout Pro 3 Tester

Item: Klein Tools Scout Pro 3 Tester
Author: ShopSavvy

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: January 8th, 2025

Pros

•Excellent for identifying and organizing wires in complex setups.
•Features numbered plugs (terminators) that provide specific identification for wires, simplifying management.
•Capable of sending a tone through uerminated wires, detected by an amplifier (sold separately).
•Includes useful debugging features to verify proper wiring and crimp connections.
•Backlit screen enhances visibility in dark areas.
•Useriendly design; easy to operate once familiarized with the manual.
•Accurately maps out cable runs using CoaxMap™ Location ID onnectors.
•Reveals mislabeled cables and identifies shorts in cables.
•Length measurement function reports accurate results within ±5% accuracy.
•Effectively identifies CATV ports for enhanced management of TV and internet connections.

Cons

•Lacks Power over Ethernet (POE) functionality, a key feature for certain networking needs.
•Failed to map connections correctly, showing false faults which can be misleading.
•Instructions for POE testing are confusing and ineffective, as the function doesn't align with expectations.
•Unable to perform essential tasks for professional port mapping, disappointing in work contexts.
•Build quality feels fragile and not robust for professional use.
•Lacks a function to indicate if a port is active, available in less expensive alternatives.
•Measurements are highly inaccurate, reporting incorrect cable length results.
•Overall disappointment in quality, misleading some lonime customers.

Bottom Line

The Klein Tools VDV501-851 Scout® Pro 3 Tester Starter Kit excels in wire organization and mapping, making it a suitable choice for simpler setups. However, it misses the mark in professional applications due to its lack of Power over Ethernet (POE) functionality and unreliable measurements. If POE testing and active port indication are crucial for your tasks, consider alternatives like the VDV501-852, which incorporates POE and fits industry standards.

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$74.95 at Amazon

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