Network Cable Tester NF-8601S Ethernet Cable Tester - TDR Length & POE

In this review the NF-8601S is judged as a practical, all-in-one network cable tester for technicians and serious DIYers who need fast diagnostics on Ethernet, RJ11 and BNC runs. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of TDR-based length and fault distance measurement with a readable color LCD and POE/PING functions, which saves time when tracing faults or verifying port power. The unit feels geared toward field use with a rechargeable battery and a TF card export option for keeping test records.

Key Features

• TDR length measurement: Provides dynamically calibrated cable length graphics and estimates fault distance, helping locate open or shorted sections quickly.
• POE and ping test: Detects which pins supply power, reads voltage level and runs ping checks for packet latency and min/max times to verify network performance.
• AC interference suppression: Tone tracing and signal detection include full AC filter support so tracing works reliably on live circuits and PoE switches.
• Large color screen and lighting: A 2.8 in color LCD with backlight and LED lighting makes results and wiring diagrams easy to read in low light.
• Data export and battery: Built-in TF card support exports logs to a PC and the internal rechargeable lithium-ion battery supports longer field sessions.
• Port flash and hub locate: Flashing hub/switch ports lets a technician identify the correct patch panel or switch port without guesswork.

Who It's For

The NF-8601S suits network technicians, installers and advanced home users who frequently install, trace or troubleshoot copper cabling and need both wiring verification and length/fault diagnostics. Its POE detection and ping tools make it useful for testing active networks and confirming switch behavior on site.

Those looking for the lightest pocket tracer or a basic continuity-only tester should look elsewhere; this unit is designed for more complete diagnostics and carries features that matter when you must locate faults, export results or test POE safely within the specified voltage limits.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Combines multiple test modes in one device so technicians can check continuity, length, POE and ping without extra tools.
• Accurate TDR length graphics and fault distance measurement that simplify locating cable problems in long runs.
• Useful data export via TF card and a readable 2.8 in color display with lighting for dark workspaces.
• Tone tracing with AC interference suppression improves success on live or PoE-enabled networks.

Cons

• Build quality and battery life received mixed feedback from users, so expect variable endurance on heavy daily use.
• POE testing requires attention to port voltage limits to avoid damaging equipment, which adds a safety consideration in the field.

Specifications

Device type	Network cable tester / tracer
Supported connectors	RJ45, RJ11, BNC, metallic cable
Length/fault method	TDR theory with graphic line diagram
Display	2.8 in color LCD 320x240 with lighting
POE test	Detects power pins and measures voltage (limit 48V on POE/PING ports)
Data export	TF card for PC export
Power	Rechargeable lithium-ion battery; low-voltage alarm and auto power-off

Our Verdict

The NF-8601S is a versatile field tool that combines length and fault measurement, POE detection and practical tracing features into a single unit, offering strong value for technicians and serious DIY installers. It excels where quick diagnostics and clear graphical feedback matter, though buyers should be aware of mixed reports on battery life and follow the POE voltage warnings during testing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the tester measure cable length and identify faults?
Yes. It uses TDR-based measurements to display cable length and estimate fault distance with an intuitive graphic line diagram.

Will it work on PoE switches and live networks?
Yes. Tone tracing includes AC interference suppression and a POE test detects power pins and voltage, but follow the 48V limit guidance on POE/PING ports.

Can I save test results?
Yes. The unit accepts a TF card so you can export logs and view results on a PC for record keeping.