How to Trace Cables in a Data Center

Use a toner/tracker module to trace cables in a data center.

When the physical infrastructure of a data center is first assembled, cables are usually arranged in an orderly fashion. Ideally, the cables are also labeled at both ends, so that future cable identification is quick and easy. Unfortunately, as data centers experience topological changes and technology upgrades, sometimes the ideal cabling standards are lost in the mix. To trace cables in a data center, the cables must be identified with a toner/tracker device.

Things You'll Need

• Telecom or networking toner/tracker module

Instructions

1. Locate one end of the cable or cables to be traced.

2. Place the voltage-generating end of the toner/tracker module onto the wire. This can be done with either an alligator-style metal clip directly on the wires, or a plug that can be inserted into the network jack.

3. Turn on the voltage-generating end of the toner/tracker module.

4. Locate the other end of the cables. The exact cable does not need to be known.

5. Turn on the tone-generating module of the toner/tracker device.

6. Run the tone-generating module probe over the set of cables. When the module generates the strongest-sounding signal, the other end of the exact cable you are tracing has been found and should be labeled.

Tips & Warnings

• Unless multiple toner/tracker devices are used, the cables must be traced one at a time.