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Networking Fundamentals · Foundational

Tone Generator and Probe

A two-part tool for tracing cables: the generator puts a tone on a wire and the inductive probe detects it at the other end.

Definition

Often called a fox and hound or toner, it is used to locate which patch panel port or punchdown connects to a specific wall jack in unlabeled installations.

Example

A technician connects the toner at a wall jack and sweeps the probe across the patch panel to find the matching port.

Exam tip

Toner = locating/tracing a cable, not testing its quality.

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