The new Klein Tools VDV Distance Meter VDV501-089 can measure voice, data, video, doorbell, siamese, lamp-wire and NM cables up to 1,500 feet. It has 6 pre-programmed nominal cable length constants for RG59, RG6 and RG11 coaxial as well as Cat3, Cat5e and Cat6 twisted pair. In addition, the VDV Distance Meter lets the user adjust the capacitance/foot constant based on the cable being tested, so it can adapt to your application (if you know the spec of the cable being tested this can really expand the uses of this tool). Given the constants, the DVD501-089 tester can also ensure compliance and identify cable runs that fall outside specifications.
Klein Tools VDV Distance Meter VDV501-089 Features
The tool itself looks to be well-built, with a solid base and strain relief around the exit port for the alligator and RJ11/45 leads. It features a 2.25″ monochrome LCD display, but no backlight.
You can determine whether a cable run is broken or damaged by using the included Fault Finder feature. And our favorite feature has got to be the fact that you can measure the remaining cable in a box to know whether you have enough to complete the necessary run. I can’t tell you how many times THAT would have saved time on the job or helped when billing out materials!
It’s really the price point that makes the Klein Tools VDV Distance Meter VDV501-089 something special. With the tool coming in at under $75, it’s an easy sell to anyone who works with low-voltage wiring. The tool uses a 9V battery (included) which should last around 425 hours (active use) and allow you to take this tool just about anywhere. The VDV501-089 comes with a 2 year warranty.
