CYA Cables ST-1 - User Manual

CYA Cables ST-1 - SOCAPEX 19-Pin Cable Tester - User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the CYA Cables ST-1 Cable Tester. This device is designed for AV professionals to quickly and reliably test standard SOCAPEX 19-Pin cables for common faults such as open, shorted, and swapped conductors. Its full color visual display provides immediate and clear feedback on the cable's status.

2. IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNINGS

WARNING: ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD AND EQUIPMENT DAMAGE RISK

  • NEVER connect the tester to a cable that is connected to mains power, dimmers, distribution boxes, amplifiers, speakers, or ANY other equipment.
  • NEVER connect the tester to a cable that is suspected of being energized or live.
  • ALWAYS ensure the cable is completely disconnected from all other devices at BOTH ends before testing.
  • Failure to follow these warnings can result in severe electrical shock, injury, death, and/or damage to the tester and connected equipment.

General Cautions:

  • Use only the supplied USB-C cable for charging or a certified equivalent.
  • Do not expose the tester to extreme temperatures, moisture, or excessive dust.
  • Do not attempt to open or repair the tester yourself. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
  • Store the tester in the provided carrying case when not in use.

3. Hardware Features

  • SOCAPEX Connector: Standard 19-pin female connector for testing male SOCAPEX 19-Pin cables (uses 18 connected pins).
  • Color Display: Provides a visual representation of the cable wiring and fault status.
  • Power Switch: Momentary switch. Press and hold to power the device on and keep it running during the test. Release to power off.
  • USB-C Port: For charging the internal battery.
  • Internal Battery: 1000mAh LiPo battery.
  • Carrying Case: Protects the tester during transport and storage.

4. Operation

  1. Ensure the SOCAPEX 19-Pin cable to be tested is completely disconnected from any power source or other equipment at both ends.
  2. Connect the male end of the SOCAPEX 19-Pin cable firmly to the female connector on the tester. Push together and tighten ring. Repeat until fully seated.
  3. If testing a cable, connect the female end to the male testing unit. If testing a fanout, connect the POWERCONNs to the testing brick. 
  4. Press and hold the momentary power switch. The tester will power on, display the background image, and immediately begin testing.
  5. Observe the display for the test results (see Section 5). The test runs continuously while the power button is held.
  6. Fault indicators (shorted lines, open rings) are persistent. They will remain displayed even if the fault is intermittent, until the tester is powered off.
  7. Release the power switch to turn the tester off.
  8. Disconnect the cable from the testing units.

5. Understanding the Display

The display shows a representation of the SOCAPEX 19-Pin connector's pinout (using the 18 connected pins). Each numbered circle corresponds to a circuit (L=Line, G=Ground, N=Neutral).

All Good Display

All Good: All conductors are correctly wired. All relevant circles are solid green.

Ground Ring Detected Display

Ground Ring Detected: If the cable has a ground ring, concentric green/yellow rings will appear around the center.

Open Conductor Display

Open Conductor: An open conductor (e.g., G6) is indicated by a solid black circle with a red ring around it. The ring persists until power off.

Shorted Conductors Display

Shorted Conductors: Shorted conductors (e.g., L1 and N2) are indicated by solid red circles connected by a red line. The line persists until power off.

Swapped Conductors Display

Swapped Conductors: Swapped conductors (e.g., L1 and N6) are indicated by solid red circles connected by a yellow double-headed arrow.

6. Charging

  • Connect the included USB-C cable to the charging port on the tester and the other end to a suitable USB power source (e.g., computer USB port, phone charger).
  • A LED next to the charging port indicates red when charging and blue when charged.
  • Allow sufficient time for the 1000mAh battery to charge fully.

7. Care and Maintenance

  • Keep the connector free of dust and debris.
  • Clean the exterior with a soft, dry cloth if necessary. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.
  • Always store the tester in its carrying case.
  • Regular use and charging will prolong battery life.