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Cable Measuring Tools

Measuring the length of a cable is a science that must be mastered to eliminate waste and to resolve communication and transmission problems. Telephone, power and cable companies normally utilize state-of-the-art cable measurement tools to ensure that each cable is cut at the most appropriate and accurate length from one point to another. These tools are also used to test the cables.
  1. Measuring Tape

    • While it has been mentioned that the standard measuring tape may be somewhat obsolete, it is still an essential measurement tool for most cable contractors when faced with cable end cutting and conduit planning.

    Digital Measuring Meters

    • Digital measurement meters are used to derive the exact length of a cable, wire or any other flexible material. These tools normally come with a digital LCD counter that allows a person to monitor the length measured. The measurement is then compared to the exact length of point A to point B, where the cable is or will be installed. In most cases, the measurement that can be derived from this type of device will have an error range of about 0.5 percent.

      Aside from measuring length, the more modern measuring meters come with additional functionalities such as cable testing, which allows cable contractors to pinpoint and troubleshoot shorts within the length of a cable. Measurement meters are usually portable, perfect for on-site installation and troubleshooting. Eraser's WMIG measuring meter and JDSU's True Length cable measurement tool are two prime examples of a cable measurement meter.

    Cable and Wire Counters

    • A cable and wire counter allows contractors and cabling companies to monitor and track inventory. Basically, this tool is used when a new shipment of cables comes. The cables are fed into the counter until exhausted to determine the total length of each cable roll or spindle in meters. Each measurement is then logged onto the inventory system, which will then compute for the total length of all the cables in stock. Wire counters come in analog and digital versions. The digital versions are portable and have added functionality such as copper and aluminum inspecting without the need for insulation stripping.

    Cable Testers

    • Cable testers are portable devices used to test the efficiency of the cable from end to end. Contractors use this device to determine errors in the cable. The more modern models also allow pinpointing the cause of any errors found by measuring the length of the cable where the short is located. Cable testers are standard cable measurement and troubleshooting tools for the telecommunications industry.