Clever MapMaster 2.0 Tool from Platinum Tests Voice, Video, Data

There are some tools that are simply no-brainers, and Platinum Tools’ VDV MapMaster 2.0 is one of them.

Introduced at CEDIA Expo 2012, the unit tests voice, data and video cables in one handheld device, combining cable length measurement with continuity testing, mapping, and tone generator functions into a single unit.

All this for just $130.

We caught up with VP sales Todd Cota at CEDIA, who demonstrates how the product requires only one person for the job.

Numbered jacks – he demonstrates Cat 5 in the video – plug into your outlets. At the other end, plug the cable into the tester and it displays the number of the jack.

A process like this usually takes two people to do -- the old tone-and-probe method, Cota says. “So you had to have one guy running the tone sending the sounds up the line and another guy with the probe trying to figure out where the noise is coming from and what cable. This is done very quietly, very efficiently, and it can be done with one person.”

And because the unit tests video, voice and data, the dealer need not invest in a bunch of single-device testers, Cota says.

Check out the video and photos below for more details (the press release follows).

Why it's a One-Person Job

For more new from CEDIA Expo 2012, visit www.cepro.com/cedianews

PRESS RELEASE
Platinum Tools Launches VDV MapMaster 2.0 Length Measurement Voice/Data/Video Tester

Platinum Tools (http://www.platinumtools.com), the leader in solutions for the preparation, installation and hand termination of wire and cable, is proud to announce the launch of the new VDV MapMaster 2.0 voice, data, and video tester. Now with cable length measurement, the VDV MapMaster™ 2.0 is now shipping with an MSRP of $129.95.

“The VDV MapMaster 2.0 now combines cable length measurement with continuity testing, mapping, and tone generator functions into a single unit,” explained Lee Sachs, Platinum Tools, Inc. president and general manager. “Made in the USA, the VDV MapMaster is capable of identifying and mapping 19 locations at one time. Whether the job is commercial or residential, the versatility and added features of the VDV MapMaster 2.0 makes it an installer’s best friend.”

Length Mode is used to measure the length of entire cables and its pin pairs and allows for viewing and adjusting the length constant value for video, data, and voice cables. The VDV MapMaster tests Cat-6, Cat5e, Cat-5, Cat-4, Cat-3, and coax cables, as well as shielded cables. Video and data cables can be connected to their respective remotes at the same time to improve testing efficiency. Patch cables may be tested without removing the master remote from storage.

With a convenient size and weight of only 6.4in x 2.8in x 1.4in and just 9.0 ounces, additional features of the VDV MapMaster include:

• Tests voice (six wire), data (eight wire), and video (coax)
• Measures the entire length of a cable and/or individual wire pairs within the cable
• Easy-to-read , extra large 7-segment LCD screen with large icons
• Tone generator with selectable tone cadence and selectable pins carrying tone
• RJ (voice and data) master remote stores in bottom of case
• Map 19 locations at one time
• Measures length in feet or meters
• Tests and indicates pins with shorts, opens, reversals miswires and split pairs
• Displays “Pass” icon for correctly wired T568A/B and crossover/uplink
• Displays “Pass” icon for correctly wired 6-pin telephone plus “Rev” for reverse pinned
• Voltage detection warning icon
• Long battery life; low battery icon indicator
• Auto power off

Numerous accessories for the VDV MapMaster 2.0 are also available.

For more information on Platinum Tools and its complete product line, please visit http://www.platinumtools.com, call (800) 749-5783, or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

About Platinum Tools
Platinum Tools, founded in 1997, was created based upon two very simple objectives. First, develop the absolute best possible solutions for the preparation, installation, and hand termination of wire and cable. Second, implement an operational infrastructure that can deliver these products in an efficient, timely, and high quality manner.

All of our products must absolutely satisfy three critical benchmark criteria…utility of function; quality of function; and economic value. Our people are our company. They, too, must be focused on and work to satisfy three critical benchmark criteria…customer satisfaction; product knowledge and expertise; and willingness to learn and adapt.