What is the proper procedure for testing twisted pair cables?

The proper procedure for testing twisted pair cables includes performing a wire map test, followed by checks for attenuation and crosstalk. Starting with the wire map test is critical because it verifies that the wiring conforms to the intended configuration and ensures that there are no wiring faults, such as miswires or opens in the connections. This foundational step confirms the basic connectivity and integrity of the cable.

After establishing that the wiring is correct, checking for attenuation and crosstalk is essential for determining the performance of the cable. Attenuation measures the signal loss over distance, which is vital for ensuring that the cable can maintain signal strength over its length. Crosstalk testing assesses the level of interference between adjacent pairs in the cable, which can significantly impact data transmission quality.

Completing these tests helps ensure that the twisted pair cables meet the required standards for communication within the specified distances and frequencies. This thorough testing process is crucial in networking environments where data integrity and speed are paramount, making option C the most comprehensive and effective procedure for testing twisted pair cables.