Network Cable to Switch Port Locator Tool

The MON-IP7 and MON-7HD test monitors includes an app that allows installers to locate which port on a network switch an Ethernet cable is connected to. This tester works with non-PoE and PoE switches. This is very handy in large network installations and also for messy installations that may not have cables labeled. The installer connects the network cable (CAT-5, CAT-6, CAT-5e, etc.) to the LAN port of the MON-IP7 test monitor and the testing tool sends a signal to the switch that causes the status LED to blink on the port that the other end of the cable is connected to.

Besides this network cable tracer application, the MON-IP7 is an IP camera tester that capable of displaying live video from any ONVIF compatible IP camera. This tool also has many other network and cable testing functions that you can learn more about the MON-IP7 here. You can learn more about the MON-7HD HD CCTV / IP camera tester here. They are basically the same produect except in addition to IP camera and analog CCTV cameras, the MON-7HD also supports HD security cameras (AHD, HD-TVI, and HD-CVI cameras). All other functions are identical.

Network Cable / Port Locator Setup

Connect the network cable that you want to trace to the LAN port on the testing tool. Power your testing tool on if you have not already done so. To use the port locator tool, you must first make sure that the wireless LAN port of the tester is turned off. Using the 7" touch screen, swipe the main application menu to the left, then tap on Settings.

On the settings screen tap on WLAN Net on the left menu. Turn the WIFI port off. When you are done, close the settings screen by tapping on the X in the upper right.

Open the port locator app by swiping on the main menu to the right, then selecting the "Port flashing" icon.

The Port flashing app opens. Tap on the Start button.

The application will send a signal to the switch that will cause the port on the switch to slowly blink. Look at the status LEDs on your network switch to locate your cable.

When you are done, tap on the Stop button. Then tap on the X in the upper right to close the app.

About the Author

These setup instructions were written by Mike Haldas, co-founder and managing partner of CCTV Camera Pros. If you have any questions about them or anything related to video surveillance systems and equipment, please email me at mike@cctvcamerapros.net.