Which Cable Test Means The Most -

[mikectrcdd]

When testing Cat 5E cables, I rely on ACR (attentuation to cross talk ratio) the most. In my mind, it states the headroom I have between signal strength and noise. I try to get attenuation in the single digits too.

What numbers mean the most to you other pros??

 

[daronwilson]

Normally I don't even check the statistics of the test as long as it passes. My wirescope saves all the test plots at various frequencies so I can go back and reference that at any time. However, if it passes, then it is acceptable.

If I do look at the plots, I look for anything that is very close to the edge of acceptance. Normally that is NEXT from my experience.

Good Luck!


It is only my opinion, based on my experience and education...I am always willing to learn, educate me!
Daron J. Wilson, RCDD
daron.wilson@lhmorris.com

 

[Servamatic]

On new Level III testers which you would use for Cat 6 and below, Return Loss is the best indicator of pending doom....ACR is not a recognized test in newer testers or the 568-B series of standards. ELFEXT is somewhat similar to what ACR was, not exactly the same though.

Return Loss indicates you may have impedance mismatches which can cause signal to be reflected back from receiver to transmitter.

The other tests are still important, but RL is the test which most closely indicates installer error.

The higher the Return Loss dB figures the better.


Richard S. Anderson, RCDD

http://www.servamatic.net