Which tool is commonly used for identifying cable faults?

The Time Domain Reflectometer (TDR) is an essential tool for identifying cable faults because it utilizes the principle of sending a pulse down the cable and measuring the time it takes for any reflections to return. This process allows technicians to pinpoint the location of faults, such as breaks or shorts in the cable, by analyzing the reflected signals. The TDR can help determine the length of the cable as well, as deviations in the expected time of reflection indicate issues along the line.

In contrast, other tools like a multimeter can measure voltage, current, and resistance but are not specialized for cable fault location. A cable tester generally checks for continuity and basic functionality of the cable but does not provide detailed insight into the location or type of faults. A signal strength meter measures the strength of signals along the cable but does not identify specific faults within the cable itself. Thus, the TDR stands out as the most effective tool for accurately diagnosing issues in cable systems.