What is a common testing method used for verifying cabling integrity?

Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) is a widely recognized testing method used to verify the integrity of cabling, especially in telecommunications and data communications. TDR works by sending a pulse signal into the cable and measuring the time it takes for the reflection of that signal to return. Any irregularities, such as breaks, shorts, or impedance mismatches, will cause reflections at different points along the cable. By analyzing these reflections, technicians can pinpoint the location and type of fault within the cable, facilitating efficient troubleshooting and maintenance.

This method is particularly effective for identifying issues that may not be visible through simple visual inspections or basic multimeter testing, which typically measures voltage, current, or resistance but does not provide detailed information about cable integrity or faults. While signal generator tests can verify that signals are being transmitted, they do not give insights into the physical condition of the cable itself as TDR does.