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Can patch cords be tested performing just a channel test?
Patch cord have plugs on each end, channel test adapters have jacks. Should be a perfect fit, shouldn’t it? Unfortunately, it isn’t, as it gives you completely wrong test results. Read on to find out why.
Answer: EN 50173 and ISO/IEC 11801 cabling standards specify that the very first and the very last connection of a link is not taken into consideration in a channel test. These two connectors are plugged into electronic devices and thus are being compensated by the electronics and so channel tests simply ignore them
When testing a patch cord using channel test adapters, only the cable itself is tested as the first and the last connector (and a patch cord doesn’t have any more of them) are neglected. The test result is as great as it is wrong. In order to test patch cords properly, appropriate patch cord test adapters that also test the plugs are needed.
Nobody knows everything. A comprehensive topic like IT cabling inevitably raises questions. This column gives answers to questions which reached Telegärtner’s Technical Helpdesk and which we consider interesting for everyone. Please do not hesitate to send us your questions, we will be happy to answer them. The questions will be published anonymously, of course.
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