Treedix Multifunction USB Cable Tester
ZDNET Highlights
- The Treedix Multifunction USB Cable Tester is available on Amazon for $42.
- This convenient, pocket-sized USB cable can run a few tests, and has an easy-to-read display.
- This is a niche gadget that won’t be necessary for everyone.
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If you’re like me, you have a box or bag (or maybe several) of cables that you plan to organize in a day. Or maybe you need a quick and easy way to diagnose damaged cables. These tasks can be time consuming, but the right tools can take the stress out of the process.
Also: 10 DIY Gadgets I Never Leave From My Toolkit (And Why Each One Earns Its Own Place)
is the right tool for the job Treedix Multifunction USB Cable TesterThis pocket-sized gadget can tell you everything you need to know about cables (probably more than you need to), and it can do the job quickly and reliably.
The USB Cable Tester is a small box measuring 2.9 x 2.5 x 0.5 inches and has a series of ports. There are USB-C and USB-A output ports and corresponding USB-C, Lightning, miniUSB, and microUSB 2.0 and microUSB 3.0 input ports for testing cables. This means that the tester can accommodate any cable with corresponding output and input ports.
And here are the corresponding input ports on the Tridix Multifunction USB Tester.
Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET
The unit is powered by a single AAA battery, or alternatively you can use the USB-C input. There is also a power switch and a function button to change what the unit will display on the screen.
Batteries are a convenient way to power this tester, and a battery lasts a long time (months, possibly years – just check it every few months if the battery starts leaking).
Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET
Yes, there is a display, a 2.4-inch IPS color screen, where the action happens, giving you in-depth information about the cables connected to the tester.
Also: This USB power meter I tested is surprisingly accurate – especially considering how cheap it is.
The unit can handle a number of tests, from basic functions to check if the cable can handle data and power transmission, as well as protocols, a printout of active lines in the cable, a resistance test and an eMarker chip test (you scroll through the functions using the function button).
The tester shows the pinout of the active lines in the cable.
Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET
If the cable is equipped with an eMarker chip, the tester will show information such as the maximum current and voltage the cable can carry, data transfer rate, cable type, and even cable length.
The eMarker chip identifies this cable as being capable of 240W power transfer, and latency testing measures its length at approximately 2 meters.
Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET
And it’s quick – just plug the cable in and you’ll have information instantly.
Using the tester to confirm that this data block cannot carry cable data.
Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET
ZDNET’s shopping advice
Not everyone needs a USB cable tester, but if you need one – or just want one – it’s a good buy. ok no you can pick it up Treedix Multifunction USB Cable Tester For only $43. This is a great tester that has earned a place in my toolbag!
