What is one function of a Time Domain Reflectometer (TDR)?

A Time Domain Reflectometer (TDR) functions primarily to measure the length of a cable while also detecting issues such as faults or breaks within the cable. When a TDR is connected to a cable, it sends a pulse down the wire and measures the time it takes for that pulse to reflect back after hitting an impedance change, such as a break, short, or other types of damage. By analyzing the time it takes for the signal to return, the TDR can provide a precise measurement of the cable length and pinpoint the location of any faults that may be present. This is crucial for maintenance and troubleshooting in telecommunications and networking applications, ensuring that issues can be addressed promptly and accurately.