Platinum Tools Adds New Testers to Assist Integration Professionals

Platinum Tools launched its new VDV MapMaster 2.0 voice, data, and video tester to the CEDIA market during the 2012 CEDIA EXPO, held last month in Indianapolis. Now shipping with an MSRP of $129.95, the new version of the company’s tester features cable length measurement to assist integrators on even the most extensive jobs. Doug Hopkins, Platinum Tools inside sales/technical support manager took a moment recently to explain the benefits of having a digital voice, data, and video tester in your tool kit and how else his company can assist integrators.

Doug Hopkins, Platinum Tools inside sales/technical support manager

For integrators that believe testers are unnecessary, how does Platinum Tools explain its ROI on buying such a device?

In today’s digital age, we understand that utilizing cable testers is a vital part of the job. It’s why we felt strongly about including them in our family of products. An integrator without a tester is ignoring a technology that will aid them in many more ways than just one. We designed our testers with the integrator in mind and priced them likewise, so they don’t have to break the bank just to have the right tools for the job. The return on investment will be apparent on even the first job while giving them peace of mind that they’ve wired everything properly. Eliminating callbacks because they did the job right the first time, as well as eliminating redundant tools in their belt and in their trucks, will save time and money on every call.

 

Explain the concept behind your remote sets and why they can be beneficial to an integrator.

Our ID remote sets allow an integrator to map multiple locations without all of the back and forth. Just plug the remotes in to the locations you want to map, up to 19 at a time. Then, head back to equipment room and plug in a patch cable from your VDV to the switch and press “ID.” Now you’ve begun the process. Just continue down the row and label as you go. Data ID remote sets (T121) and Coax ID remote sets (T120) are available.

How long does it typically take for an experienced integrator to get up to speed with your products?

Platinum Tools’ VDV MapMaster 2.0 cable tester

The training required to use our testers is quite minimal. We include instruction manuals with each as well as including intuitive product videos on our website (www.platinumtools.com). As always, we are available to assist customers who have questions or need assistance using any of our products. Give us a call or visit us on the web.

Obviously Platinum Tools offers more than just testers. What are the latest developments in your company’s crimper and connector lines?

We strive to offer our customers the latest and greatest tech and tools. From our flagship EZ-RJ45 connector system offering a thru-hole design, and enhanced standard Cat-5e and Cat-6 connectors, to great hand tools and testers and beyond, Platinum Tools has you covered.

Can you give us a sneak peek at what’s to come, product wise, in 2013?

We are developing a number of great products for industry professionals. Our 10-gig connector for Cat- 6a cable is one that we’re really excited about. With the increase in data transfer rates around the globe, we want to supply our customer with the right products to keep up with today’s technologies. Another product is our Smart Remotes for our VDV MapMaster 2.0 cable tester. These small remotes combine the ability to test and map cables up to eight locations at once.