Copper TDR

[MAK]

I am trying to find a TDR that could meter cabling other than category 5- cable. Looking for something that could meter 16,18, 22 awg. I have searched online but have not found anything other than network type TDR's. Any thoughts?
Thank You.

 

[bobbyho]

MAK, try the Harris TS 100. This tool is awesome. It can be set for a variety of different wire sizes. I use it very often. Finding shorts, opens or how much is left on the roll of 12/2 that is half used. I think they are about 200 to 300 bucks and worth every penny.

 

[cadpoint]

MAK, try the Harris TS 100. This tool is awesome. It can be set for a variety of different wire sizes. I use it very often. Finding shorts, opens or how much is left on the roll of 12/2 that is half used. I think they are about 200 to 300 bucks and worth every penny.

Well I just looked at that tool and this length of wire remaining was not defined...

So one shorts the lines together or your just reading the resistance of wire or what ? It there math involved?
Care to clarify ?

 

[bobbyho]

It needs to measure a pair of wires. Unfortunately, I have yet to find a tool to measure a single conductor to see how long it is. The TS 100 comes with directions that tell you how to set the velocity of probogation (sp?) I have mine set for 12 awg which is really close to the 14awg as well. Maybe a 1 foot difference when working with it. Close enough for trouble shooting. It can measure up to about 10 miles. I was introduced to this when I worked for the phone company. In addition it also sends tone out on the line so you can also use it as a toner. One less tool you would have to buy that is also a must have for any electrician or data person. If anyone does have a formula for measuring a single conductor that can give you the length, please let me know. I supposedly had a formula years ago but I can no longer find it.

 

[wptski]

It needs to measure a pair of wires. Unfortunately, I have yet to find a tool to measure a single conductor to see how long it is. The TS 100 comes with directions that tell you how to set the velocity of probogation (sp?) I have mine set for 12 awg which is really close to the 14awg as well. Maybe a 1 foot difference when working with it. Close enough for trouble shooting. It can measure up to about 10 miles. I was introduced to this when I worked for the phone company. In addition it also sends tone out on the line so you can also use it as a toner. One less tool you would have to buy that is also a must have for any electrician or data person. If anyone does have a formula for measuring a single conductor that can give you the length, please let me know. I supposedly had a formula years ago but I can no longer find it.

Just curious as to what VP setting your using for #12/14 AWG?

 

[bobbyho]

I don't remember what setting it is.I set it about 5 years ago and lost the directions. I don't shoot many phone troubles anymore so I haven't had a reason to reset the VOP. You can probably get the directions online.

 

[wptski]

I don't remember what setting it is.I set it about 5 years ago and lost the directions. I don't shoot many phone troubles anymore so I haven't had a reason to reset the VOP. You can probably get the directions online.

Actually, I did. What I find odd is that in the Q/A there is a question about a typical outdoor extension cord and a VOP of 56 is stated. You can find VOP by knowing the cord/wire lenght and adjusting VOP till you get the right lenght. I've found the VOP of outdoor extension cord to be 61 which works exactly on #10, 12 and 14 AWG of different lenghts. Oh well....