Biccotest Model T535 Cable Fault Locator

Model T535 Cable Fault Locator
Issue 1
Operating Instructions and Applications Guide

Refer to Preface before operating
00901145- 1
T535 Operating Manual_______________________________________Biccotest Limited
PREFACE
IMPORTANT NOTE
This instrument is supplied with the internal battery discharged. Before use,
charge the battery as described in 3.4.
Complete discharge of the internal battery ¡s prevented by a sensing circuit
which automatically disconnects the battery when its voltage falls below a
pre-determined level, thus rendering the equipment inoperative. In order to
restore operation either:
1. Charge the internal battery
or 2. Operate from the a.c. supply

or 3. Operate from an external 11.5 to 28 volt d.c. supply.
This document does not contain servicing information. A servicing manual is

available as an accessory.
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Biccotest Limited T535 Operating Manual
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS:
READ CAREFULLY THE SAFETY

PRECAUTIONS ON PAGE 5
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00901145 – 1 Page 3
T535 Operating Manual_______________________________________Biccotest Limited
Model T535 Operating Instructions

Biccotest Limited,
Delamare Road,
Cheshunt,
Waltham Cross,
Hertfordshire,
EN8 9TG
ENGLAND
Tel: (0992)629011
Int: +44992629011
Fax: (0992)636170
Int: +44 992 636170
Part No. 00901145, Issue 1

© Biccotest Limited
This document is the copyright property of Biccotest Limited.
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Page 4 00901145 – 1
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Please read carefully before operating.
The T535 is designed to be used by trained personnel conforming with

procedures and instructions described in this Operating Manual. This is in
addition to those safety rules and regulations appertaining to the industry
and location in which the equipment is used.
There are minimal safety problems when operating the T535 ¡n accordance
with the Instruction Manual. However, special attention should be given to
the following:
Ensure that the unit is set to the correct voltage rating before connecting to
an a.c. supply (see Section 3.2).
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T535 Operating Manual_______________________________________Biccotest Limitedl
Although the T535 is protected against voltages up to 400V PK, in the

interest of operator safety:
• do not connect the output of the T535 to energized conductors.

• make a separate voltage test on the conductors to be tested before
connecting them to the T535 (note that the T535 is not grounded).
• take precautions to avoid any impact on the cathode ray tube.
Impact could cause implosion.
Internal work on the T535 shall only be performed by those acquainted with
the possible shock hazard of cathode ray oscilloscope circuits and with the
routine precautions to be taken to avoid such accidents.
Within the T535 there are voltages as high as 2 kV during operation, and
such voltages can exist even after the T535 has been switched off.
Do not operate the T535 with the case removed except when following the
procedures of the Service Manual.
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LIST OF CONTENTS
Page
Safety Precautions 5
1. Introduction 11
2. Description of controls 14
3. Preparation for use 20
3.1 Introduction 20
3.2 Operation from an a.c. supply 20
3.3 Operation from an external 11 .5-28 V d.c. supply 21
3.4 Operation from the internal battery 22
3.5 Re-initialising the T535 23
List of propagation velocity f actors 24
4. Operating Procedure 25
4.1 Initialising the Control Settings 25
4.2 Single Line Testing 26
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T535 Operating Manual Biccotest Limited
Page
4.3 Comparison of Two Lines 28
4.4 Difference between Two Lines 29
4.5 Location of Crosstalk (Splits and Resplits) 29
4.6 Use of the Memory 30
4.7 X - Y, Y - T Recording 32
4.8 Printing via RS232/V24 Compatible Interface 33
4.8.1 Interface Connections 34
4.8.2 Operation with an Epsom P40 Printer 36
5. Application Guide 38
5.1 General Hints on Fault Locating 38
5.2 To Determine the (DIELECTRIC) Velocity Factor 41
5.2.1 Velocity of Propagation Known 42
5.2.2 Dielectric Constant Known 42
5.2.3 Using Short Length Cable 43
5.2.4 Route Length Known 44
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Biccotest Limited___________________________________________T535 Operating Manual
1
Page
5.2.5 Route Length Known with both ends accessible 45
5.2.6 Route Length Unknown with both ends accessible 46
(Three Stake Method)
5.3 Practical Examples 48
(1 ) Open Conductors 48
(2) Shorted Conductors 48
(3) Joints/Splices 49
(4) Capacitor Networks 49
(5) Loading Coils 50
(6) Open Sheath 50
(7) Grounded Sheath 51
(8) Wet Section (Water Ingress) 52
(9) Crossed or Split Pairs 53
(10)Taps 53
(11) Change of Cable Insulation 54
5.4 Ghost Reflections 56
6. Specification 57
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T535 Operating Manual________________________________ _______Biccotest Limited
The T535 has been designed primarily for testing telephone pairs. Ranges
are from 30 meters, 100ft and O.S^s to 15km, 50,000ft and Measurement
accuracy is ±1% of selected range setting.
Examples of Displayed Waveforms
Transmitted Pulse Reflected

Pulse (Fault)
1. Open Circuit or Series Fault 2. Short Circuit or

Shunt Fault
3. Inductive Mismatch 4. Capacitive Mismatch

Practical examples are given in Section 5.
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1. INTRODUCTION
The T535 is a pulse-reflection (radar) cable test set, which provides

a visual indication of cable faults. The principle of operation is that a
pulse transmitted into a cable travels with a velocity determined by
the dielectric, or insulating medium, and is reflected by
discontinuities or mismatches in the cable. The transmitted and
reflected pulses are displayed on a cathode ray tube, the time
between them being proportional to the distance to the point of
reflection. The type of fault can be determined by analysis of the
displayed waveform (see examples on page 10).
The T535 provides for:
a) Examination of a single line.
b) Comparison between a good pair and a faulty pair.
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00901145 – 1 Page 11
c) Difference between a good pair and a faulty pair, so that

reflections from common features such as joints and change
of wire gauge or insulation, cancel; this permits obscure
faults to be more readily identified.
d) Location of crosstalk points i.e. splits and resplits, by

transmitting on one pair and receiving on the other.
e) "Before and after" comparison using the memory facility.
This manual provides sufficient information for successful operation of the

T535. In order to obtain maximum benefit from the T535 read through this
manual before attempting to locate a cable fault.
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Cable Fault Locator T535
Cable Fault Locator T535

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2. DESCRIPTION OF CONTROLS
The controls consist of pressure operated membrane switches which

are either single operation (SINGLE) only or single operation with
auto repeat if maintained in the depressed condition (AUTO).
POWER SINGLE Equipment power ON – OFF
INTENSITY AUTO Varies the brightness of the CRT display.
FOCUS AUTO Varies the definition of the CRT display.
UNITS SINGLE Selects units of measurement METRES,

FEET or MICROSECONDS.
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RANGE AUTO Selects the displayed range.
CURSOR AUTO Adjusts the position of the vertical line cursor.
SHIFT AUTO Adjusts the vertical position of the CRT display.
AMP AUTO Adjusts the vertical amplitude of the CRT display.
PULSE WIDTH SINGLE Selects the narrow or wide pulse available on

each range.
DIELECTRIC AUTO Selects the appropriate propagation velocity

factor for the line under test.
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PLOT SINGLE Initiates either analogue output to an external

XY, YT plotter or RS232/V24 output to a printer.
SET AUTO Provides either the full scale output to the

analogue plotter or outputs a line feed to the printer.
RESET SINGLE Resets the plot output to 0V, terminates plotting,

terminates output to the printer.
L1 SINGLE Trace from line connected to L1 sockets

displayed.
L1 &L2 SINGLE Traces from lines connected to both the L1

and L2 sockets displayed.
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L1 - L2 SINGLE Difference between the traces of the lines

connected lo the L1 and L2 sockets displayed.
L1 -»L2 SINGLE Crosstalk between the lines connected to L1

and L2 displayed.
L1 to M SINGLE Trace obtained on L1 transferred to memory.
M SINGLE The trace stored in memory will be displayed.
M & L1 SINGLE Trace from the line connected to L1 and the

trace stored in memory displayed
simultaneously.
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M-L1 SINGLE Difference between the trace from the line

connected to L1 and the trace stored in
memory displayed.
FILTER SINGLE Switches in a high pass filter to reject low

frequency components from the received
signal.
BALANCE Continuously variable control used to minimise

the amplitude of the transmitted pulse
appearing at the start of the CRT trace.
INTERFACE 15 Way D type socket for interfacing with

external accessories.
11.5-28V 2 Pin socket for d.c. supply. Associated lamp

indicates presence of supply.
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LCD - The LCD provides the following information.
BATTERY
RANGE LOW CURSOR
DISPLAY PULSE FILTER DIELECTRIC

MODE WIDTH IN/OUT VELOCITY
FACTOR
The background is illuminated to facilitate use in low ambient light.

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T535 Operating Manual_______________________________ ______________Biccotest Limited
3. PREPARATION FOR USE

3.1. Introduction
The front panel cover houses the a.c. power unit and provides
stowage for the power supply leads, two 3 metre (10ft) connecting
leads, the instruction manual and a 2 pin d.c. input lead.
The cover also acts as a tilt stand, by releasing the two retaining
clips and folding under the unit.
The unit will operate from the internal battery in the absence of any
other supply.
3.2. Operation from an a.c. supply

Ensure that the voltage selector on the power supply unit is set to
suit the local a.c. supply.
The d.c. supply lead to the unit is contained ¡n the middle

compartment of the front cover. Release the catch and feed the d.c.
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lead through the slot provided and plug into the 11.5 - 28V socket
observing the polarity key.
Connect the a.c. power lead to the local supply. The 11.5-28V
indicator lamp will light to indicate the presence of the d.c. supply to
the unit.
3.3. Operation from an external 11.5 - 28V d.c. supply

A 2 pin d.c. input lead is supplied with the T535. When making
connections observe the polarity.
Positive BROWN
Negative BLUE
Neither side is connected to ground.
Connect to a d.c. supply in the range 11.5 to 28 Volts, insert the plug
into the unit and observe that the 11.5-28V indicator lamp is lit.
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3.4. Operation from the internal battery
The T535 will operate from the internal battery in the absence of any
other supply.
Complete discharge of the battery is prevented by a sensing circuit

which switches off the T535 when the battery voltage falls below a
predetermined value. If this should happen ¡n use, operation can be
restored for a short time by switching off for 5 minutes, allowing the
battery to recover, and then switching back on.
The battery can be recharged either from a.c. or external d.c., i.e.
vehicle supply.
Recharging from a.c.

Connect the unit as for a.c. operation, with the unit switched OFF and allow
to stand for 14 hours.
Recharging from d.c.

Connect the unit to operate from external d.c., with the unit switched
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Biccotest Limited___________________________________________7535 Operating Manual
off. The battery will charge providing the supply exceeds 12.5 volts
i.e. with the vehicle engine running. Full recharge will take 14 hours.
3.5. Re-initialising the T535 when the battery has been

disconnected and/or replaced
When the battery is disconnected the FOCUS and INTENSITY

settings in the internal memory are lost and will need to be reset when
the battery is reconnected. To do so use the following procedure:
a) Press the (-) negative intensity button for 3 seconds. This

will reset the unit.
b) If the trace is not visible, press the (+) positive intensity
button until the trace appears. This might take several
seconds.
c) The trace can now be focused. Press the (-) negative focus
button for 10 seconds. Then press the (+) positive focus
button until the trace comes into focus.
d) The unit should now operate normally
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T535 Operating Manual______________________________________________Biccotest Limited
LIST OF PROPAGATION VELOCITY FACTORS
DIELECTRIC SETTING FOR TYPICAL CABLES
Air 0.980
Air Spaced Coaxial 0.940
RG 58U Coaxial 0.780
RG 59U Coaxial 0.660
RG High Temperature Coaxial 0.695
Foam Poly 0.820
PTFE(Teflon) 0.710
Polyethene (PIC) 0.667
Jelly Filled Poly 0.640
Paper (Pulp .083 uF/Mile 0.720
Paper (Pulp .072 uF/Mile 0.880
Paper, oil filled (PILC) 0.500-0.560
Cross Linked Poly (XLPE) 0.520-0.580
HMW 0.560-0.620
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4. OPERATING PROCEDURE
4.1. Initialising the Control Settings - (refer to Section 3.5 if the

battery has been disconnected)
Connect the unit to the required power source.
Switch the unit ON by depressing the POWER switch once.

Check that the LCD indicates.
The following parameters are automatically set each time the unit is
switched on.
Display Mode L1
Amplitude Minimum
Pulse Width Narrow
The settings of the INTENSlTY, FOCUS, CURSOR, SHIFT, RANGE,

UNITS, FILTER, DIELECTRIC and the contents of the memory will be
retained from the equipments previous operation.
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T535 Operating Manual___________________________________________Biccotest Limited
Allow 10 seconds for the CRT trace to appear.
Adjust INTENSITY and FOCUS ¡f required to obtain a well defined trace.

Select Feet, Metres or Microseconds by depressing the Units Control as
required.
Adjust SHIFT to position the trace ¡n the middle of the CRT screen.
4.2. Single Line Testing
Note: The fault distance displayed includes the length of the connecting lead
used which should be subtracted from the reading obtained.
The FILTER ¡s used to filter out low frequency components. This has the
effect of sharpening up the reflection from long cables. For short cables the
filter should be switched out.
1. Plug the test lead into the L1 sockets.
2. Sel the DIELECTRIC velocity factor to suit the cable type under
test. A list is provided on page 24.
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Biccotest Limited___________________________________________7535 Operating Manual
3. If the cable type or the velocity factor is not known refer to Para. 5.2.
and then continue with this procedure as appropriate. Select the
RANGE to cover the full cable length.
Note: The range can be incremented in single steps by separate

operations of the RANGE control or progressively by applying continuous
pressure to the control. Each time the RANGE control ¡s released, the
CRT display is blanked out for a few seconds, whilst the range selected is
automatically calibrated.
Increase the AMPLITUDE until the fault reflection is observed. Select the
wide pulse if preferred.
Adjust the BALANCE control to minimise the transmitted pulse at the start
of the trace.
Move the CURSOR either in single steps or progressively until it

coincides with the point, at which the start of the transmitted pulse just
leaves the horizontal as shown.
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The distance to the fault (cursor position) is displayed in trie top right
hand corner of the LCD.
4.3. Comparison of Two Lines

Using both connecting leads, connect one line to L1 and the other to L2.
Select L1 & L2. Both L1 and L2 traces are displayed overlapping on the
CRT.
Adjust the controls as for Single Line Testing ¡n Para 4.2.
Select L1 if required to assist in discriminating between L1 and L2.
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Biccotest Limited______________________________________________7535 Operating Manual
4.4. Difference between Two Lines

Using both connecting leads, connect one line to L1 and the other line
toL2.
Select L1 - l_2, the trace displayed on the CRT is the difference

between L1 and L2.
Select L1 & L2 or L1 to assist in identifying on which line the deviation

occurs.
4.5. Location of Crosstalk (Splits and Resplits)

Connect one line to L1 and the other to L2.
Select L1 -> L2
Obtain a display as described ¡n Para 4.2 except that the BALANCE

control is inoperative.
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TYPICAL RESPONSE
Split Resplit
Should crosstalk result from any form of
resistive or capacitive coupling, the location of the
fault point is determined in the same way.
4.6. Use of the Memory
The memory is principally provided to afford "before and after" comparison

testing of the same line.
Note: Only the trace of the line connected to L1 can be stored. To store a
trace, connect the line ¡n question to the L1 sockets.
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Biccotest Limited______________________________________________T535 Operating Manual
Obtain the L1 trace as described ¡n Para 4.2.

Depress the L1 to M control, the trace displayed is now transferred to
memory.
To observe the trace stored in memory, depress the M control. The

LCD will indicate M and will also display the parameters relating to the
stored trace.
The one can now be disconnected from the T535 and subjected to
external stimulation to "enhance" the fault.
Reconnect the line to the L1 sockets. Depress the M & L1 control,

both the line and stored traces will now be displayed. The SHIFT
control can be used to separate the traces.
If the fault is not obvious, depress the M - L1 control and the

difference between the line and stored traces is displayed.
Should the RANGE, PULSE WIDTH, FILTER, UNITS, or

DIELECTRIC be inadvertently changed during the exercise, thus
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00901145 – 1 Page 31
rendering the comparison between the direct and stored trace invalid,
the LCD will flash and indicate the parameter ¡n error. Note the
indicated error, switch back to L1 and correct the error.
Comparison between the line and stored trace can now proceed as
previously described.
4.7. X - Y, Y - T Recording
The output to the external plotter is via the 15 way D type interface
plug. The output voltage is O to 1V d.c.
Note: Only the trace stored in memory can be plotted.
Connect the plotter observing the connections detailed above. Switch

the plotter to accommodate 1 volt full scale.
To check the full scale deflection depress the SET control to obtain
a 1 volt signal.
Depress RESET to reset to zero.

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With the desired trace from L1 displayed on the CRT, depress L1 to M

to transfer the trace into memory.
Depress M to check that the trace has been transferred into memory.
To initiate plotting depress the PLOT control.
The LCD will now indicate "PLOTTING".
The complete recording takes 60 seconds.
To terminate plotting at any time depress the RESET control.
4.8. Printing on Epsom P40 via RS-232/V24 Compatible Interface
Note: The Epsom P40 must be equipped with a serial RS-232C

interface.
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00901145 – 1 Page 33
4.8.1 Interface Connections

The output ¡s via the 15 way D type ¡nterface plug.
CONNECTIONS EXTERNAL VIEW OF PLUG PINS
Pin 2 Tx Data
Pin 4 RTS
Pin 5 CTS (RFS)
Pin 7 OV Link on mating socket to set data
PinSSLO ) rates defined in table below.
Pin9SL1 )
Pin10SL2)
Pin 11 Mode Select Link to 7 (OV) for printer. Leave open
circuit for Analogue Plotter.
Data Rate Link to Set

4800 Baud 10 to 7
2400 Baud 8 and 9 to 7
1200 Baud 9 to 7
600 Baud 8 to 7
300 Baud No Links
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Lead between the T535 and the Epsom P40 printer.
(T535) 15 Way D Type Socket (P40) 6 Pin DIN plug
Note: SLO, SL1, SL2
Set for 4800 Baud

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4.8.2 Operation with an Epsom P40 printer
The following settings of the DIP switch on the printer are required
for correct operation. (These are normally the factory settings of
the printer).
Switch Function ON OFF Required

No. Settings
1 Auto Line Peed Val id Invalid OFF
2 Parity Valid Invalid OFF
3 Parity Even Odd OFF
4 Word Length 7 bits 8 bits OFF
5 Bit rate 3 Settings for 4800oaud OFF
6 Bit rate 2 ON
7 Bit rate 1 OFF
8 Bit rate 0 ON
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The printer should be connected to the T535 with the lead as detailed
in 4.8.1. This ¡s available as an accessory, Part No. 31302402
Pressing PLOT causes the information on the screen and LCD to be

printed on the printer. Depending on T535 trace selection any of the
following can be printed, L1, L1 & L2, L1 - L2, L1 -> L2, M, M & L1, M-
L1.
When printing has finished, pressing SET will output Line Feeds to the
printer, causing the paper to advance.
Printing can be terminated by pressing RESET.
Note:
If the settings of RANGE, PULSE WIDTH, FILTER, UNITS, or
DIELECTRIC differ between M and L1 then the M & L1 and M - L1
screens cannot be printed. See 4.6.
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5. APPLICATION CUIDE
5.1. General Hints on Fault Locating

The position on the trace to which the cursor is set is the point at which
the reflected pulse just leaves the horizontal.
The amplitude of the reflected pulse decreases with increased distance

because of signal loss in the cable, and the AMP control should be
adjusted accordingly.
Multiple faults may or may not be observed. If the first fault encountered
is severe, most or all of the pulse energy will be reflected, disguising
other possible faults. After clearing the indicated fault, check again to
ensure that no other faults are present.
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Telephone cables by the nature of their construction produce displays

not a 'clean' as for a coaxial cable or power cable. This is why the T535
has the facility for comparing two lines or displaying the difference
between two lines so that common reflections cancel.
Whenever possible obtain a second location of the fault from another

access point.
Experience has shown that most faults occur at joints, pillars, splices,
cabinets, or where the cable has been damaged.
1. Check in the area of the indicated fault position for any

disturbance of the ground.
2. If the T535 shows the fault position to be close to a splice (joint),

the chances are that the fault is at the splice (joint).
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Insulation faults with resistance above a few kilohms are more likely to be
located by using a high-resistance bridge; unless water is present, when the
T535 will locate the change in capacitance caused by the water ingress.
The T535 will not 'see' through load coils, which appear as high-impedance
series faults.
The transmitted pulse is subject to high attenuation (loss of signal) in

telephone pairs because of the small-diameter conductors used. The smaller
the conductor the higher the attenuation and the less the effective range. It
may be necessary to go to the next higher range and wide pulse width to be
more effective.
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5.2. To determine the DIELECTRIC (Velocity Factor)
If the propagation velocity factor is not known, it can be calculated from

a), b), and c) below, or alternative methods of measurement can be
used as in d) and e) below. These calculations and measurement
methods are described in sub-paras 5.2.1 to 5.2.5 below. Refer to Para.
4.2 for the general operating procedure.
a) Velocity of propagation for the cable known.
b) Dielectric constant for the cable insulation known.
c) Short length of the same type of cable available.
d) Route length known of a good pair in the same cable.
e) Route length known with both ends accessible.
f) Route length unknown with both ends accessible (Three Stake

Method).
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5.2.1 Velocity of Propagation Known
Calculate propagation velocity factor
Where v= velocity of propagation for the cable in m/μs or ft/ μs.

c = velocity in free space 300 m/ μs or 984 ft/ μs.
5.2.2 Dielectric constant known
Propagation velocity factor =
where e = dielectric constant for the cable
Set DIELECTRIC control to 0.667

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5.2.3 Using Short length same type of cable
1. Measure the physical length of the sample cable.
2. Set the DIELECTRIC control to any value in the range 0.400 to

0.999.
3. Obtain a reading for the apparent distance to the end of the cable
indicated by the first reflection after the transmitted pulse.
4. Keep the bright-up cursor at the point of reflection, and re-adjust

the DIELECTRIC setting until the distance on the readout is the
same as the physical length measured in (1). Note the reading
of the DIELECTRIC setting, which should be recorded for
later reference. This setting can be applied to ANY T535,
not just the one on which the measurement was made.
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5.2.4 Route length known of a good pair in the same cable
Method 1
1. Connect the T535 to a good pair.
2. Determine the propagation velocity factor as previously
described for a sample length and set the DIELECTRIC control.
3. Connect to the faulty pair and measure the distance to the fault.
Method 2
1. Connect the T535 to a good pair with any DIELECTRIC setting
in the range 0.400 to 0.999 and measure the apparent distance
(d1) to the end of the cable.
2. Connect the T535 to the faulty pair with the same DIELECTRIC
setting and measure the apparent distance (d2 )
True distance to the fault
where ∫ = true length of the cable
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5.2.5 Route length known and both ends accessible
1. Set the DIELECTRIC to any setting between 0.400 and 0.999.

2. Measure the apparent distance (x) to the fault from end A and
the apparent distance (y) to the fault from end B.
Then distance to the fault from end A
where ∫ = route length of the cable.
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5.2.6 Route length unknown and both ends accessible

(Three Stake Method)
If cable dielectric ¡s unknown and cable distance ¡s unknown, the

three stake method can be used.
Set Dielectric Control to PIC or any insulation setting and continue

using the same setting.
x = Stake or marker
Df = Unknown distance to fault
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T1 = Distance in feet to the first reading.

Place first stake at this location.
T2 = Distance in feet from the far end of the cable.

Place second stake at this location.
G= Measured distance between stakes 1 and 2.
Then complete the following:
Note: If stakes T1 and T2 fall short add the correction factor,

however if they overlap subtract the correction factor.
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00901145 – 1 Page 47
5.3. Practical examples

1. Open Conductors
The reflection from an open
conductor is a positive or upward
pulse. If only one conductor is
open the amplitude of the
reflection will be smaller.
Note: No reflection from the far

end of the cable.
2. Shorted Conductors
The reflection from a shorted pair
is a negative or downward pulse.
Note: No reflection from the far
end of the cable.
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3. Joints (splices)
A joint (splice) produces an "S"
shaped reflection.
High resistance joint (splice).

A high-resistance joint produces a
positive or upward pulse similar to
that of an open conductor, the
amplitude being dependent upon
the effective resistance.
4. Capacitor Networks
A capacitor network presents a
low shunt impedance to the
transmitted pulse and produces a
negative or downward reflection
followed by a small positive
overshoot.
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00901145 – 1 Page 49
5. Loading Coils
A loading coil presents a high
series impedance to the
transmitted pulse and positive or
upward reflection. It is not
possible to 'see' beyond the first
loading coil.
6. Open Sheath
An open sheath may be located
where the sheath is completely
open, for example, where there is
a missing strap. The sheath must
be isolated in the measuring
direction and the lest connection
made between the sheath and a
shorted, twisted pair.
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7. Grounded Sheath
Grounded sheaths are difficult to
locate with pulse echo equipment
and may be more readily located
by using a high-resistance bridge.
However, in some circumstances

where the earth is moist, it may be
possible to locate the fault.
Either: (a) connect between the

sheath and a pair,
or (b) connect between the sheath
and ground.
In (a) the velocity of propagation

is that of the cable. In (b) the
velocity of propagation is
unknown and the fault can be
located by knowing the route
length of the cable.
__________________________________________________________________
00901145 – 1 Page 51
8. Wet Section (water Ingress)

Water present in a cable
increases the dielectric constant
and hence the capacitance of the
cable.
The water boundary produces a
'noisy' negative reflection, of
amplitude dependent upon the
degree of saturation, with a
positive pulse at the end. See
Waveform (a).
Because the velocity of
propagation is slower in the wet
section, for accurate location of
the far end of the set section
repeat the test from the other end
of the cable. Faults such as
open-circuits will show up in the
display of the wet section.
Waveform (b) shows a wet joint
(splice) case.
___________________________________________________________________
Page 52 00901145 – 1
9. Crossed Or Split Pairs

The joint (splice) at which the split
occurs is indicated by a positive
or negative reflection. The resplit
is indicated by a pulse of opposite
polarity, but of small amplitude,
because of the loss of pulse
energy at the split. First locate
and clear the split, then locate the
resplit.
10. Taps
The tap appears as a negative
pulse followed immediately by a
positive overshoot. Because of
multiple reflections it is difficult to
troubleshoot circuits that contain
several taps, so test progressively
by moving from tap to tap.
__________________________________________________________________
00901145 – 1 Page 53
T535 Operating Manual Biccolest Limited
11. Change of Cable Insulation

POLYTHENE PAPER
The point at which a change of
cable insulation occurs results in
a positive or negative reflection.
Polyethylene to Paper - Negative

Paper to Polyethylene – Positive
Since the velocity of propagation

is different for each cable type,
care should be taken to ensure
that the correct value is used. In
the case illustrated, first select
0.670 for Polyethylene for
accurate location in the
Polyethylene section, and if the
fault occurs in the dry paper
section select 0.710 (or the
appropriate number for the
particular type of paper insulation).
___________________________________________________________________
Page 54 00901145 – 1
Obtain a reading (d1) for the

apparent distance to the point of
change. Then measure the
apparent distance (d2) lo the fault.
The accurate distance-to-fault (D)
from the point of change is given
by:
D= d2 - d1
__________________________________________________________________
00901145 – 1 Page 55
5.4. Ghost reflections
It is sometimes convenient to select a range shorter than that

necessary to cover full cable length. Under these circumstances ¡t ¡s
possible for a reflection resulting from a point beyond the range
selected to appear on the display, giving a false indication of a fault.
This ¡s referred to as a "ghost reflection". It is caused by a reflection
resulting from one transmitted pulse occurring during the trace period
of the second or a subsequent transmitted pulse.
To identify possible ghost reflections:
NOTE ALL SIGNIFICANT REFLECTIONS ON A RANGE THAT

COVERS THE FULL CABLE LENGTH. WHEN SWITCHING TO A
SHORTER RANGE, ANY APPARENT REFLECTION, OTHER THAN
THOSE PREVIOUSLY IDENTIFIED, IS A GHOST REFLECTION.
___________________________________________________________________
Page 56 00901145 – 1
6. SPECIFICATION
Displayed Ranges 10 ranges, nominal full scale based on
a velocity factor of 0.667.
30m-15Km
100ft - 50,000 ft
0.3ns -150 μs
Resolution 0.4% of selected range
Accuracy Better than 1% of range selected
Dielectric Velocity Factor 0.400 to 0.999
Fault Location Set by means of a vertical line cursor.
__________________________________________________________________
00901145 – 1 Page 57
Transmitted Pulse Characteristics

Waveform sine squared approx.
Amplitude 20v peak in to 100 ohms
Output Impedance 100 ohms
Half Height Width ± 20%
Range Wide Narrow
1 30ns 30ns
2 30ns 30ns
3 80ns 30ns
4 80ns 30ns
5 210ns 80ns
6 210ns 80ns
7 560ns 210ns
8 560ns 210ns
9 1.8 μs 560ns
10 1.8 μs 560ns
___________________________________________________________________
Page 58 00901145 – 1
Sensitivity 3mV/cm
Balance Up to 2K ohms.
Line Connections 4mm banana sockets
19mm (3/4 inch) spacing
Input Protection 400 V (d.c. plus peak a.c.)
Filter High Pass cut off frequency 150 kHz
Display Modes
Direct L1 Single Line
L1 and L2 Two Lines
L1 - L2 Difference between two lines
L1 -> L2 Transmit on L1
Receive on L2
__________________________________________________________________
00901145 – 1 Page 59
L1 to M Transfer L1 to Memory.
M Memory trace displayed.
M & L1 Memory and L1 direct displayed.
M - L1 Difference between Memory and L1

direct traces displayed.
XY. YT X and Y axis outputs 0-1V nominal into at least 5K ohms.

Plotting time 60 seconds.
Displays CRT 7 x 5 cm display area.

LCD Alpha numeric, two rows of 16 characters.
RS232/V24 Interface to EPSOM P40 (RS232 Serial Interface version).

Printer Normally set to 9600 baud.
___________________________________________________________________
Page 60 00901145 – 1
Power a.c. single phase: 93 - 130V

requirements 45 – 440 Hz 186-260V
d.c. Operating: 11.5V to 28V
Charging: 12.5V to 28V
Neither side is connected to ground.
Internal Battery: 4hrs continuous operation.
Recharge in 14 hours.
Dimensions 140 x 290 x 260 mm
Weight 7.5 Kg approx, including battery
Safety IEC 348 Class 2
Environmental IEC 68 for field portable test equipment.
Ambient Operating -25°C to + 55°C

-13° Fto + 131°F
Temperature Non Operating -40°C lo + 70°C
-40°F to +158°F
__________________________________________________________________
00901145 – 1 Page 59
00901145 – 1

Biccotest Model T535 Cable Fault Locator

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Model T535 Cable Fault Locator

Operating Instructions and Applications Guide

1. Charge the internal battery

or 2. Operate from the a.c. supply

This document does not contain servicing information. A servicing manual is

READ CAREFULLY THE SAFETY

Model T535 Operating Instructions

Part No. 00901145, Issue 1

Please read carefully before operating.

The T535 is designed to be used by trained personnel conforming with

Although the T535 is protected against voltages up to 400V PK, in the

• do not connect the output of the T535 to energized conductors.

Transmitted Pulse Reflected

1. Open Circuit or Series Fault 2. Short Circuit or

3. Inductive Mismatch 4. Capacitive Mismatch

The T535 is a pulse-reflection (radar) cable test set, which provides

The T535 provides for:

a) Examination of a single line.

b) Comparison between a good pair and a faulty pair.

c) Difference between a good pair and a faulty pair, so that

d) Location of crosstalk points i.e. splits and resplits, by

e) "Before and after" comparison using the memory facility.

This manual provides sufficient information for successful operation of the

Cable Fault Locator T535

Cable Fault Locator T535

The controls consist of pressure operated membrane switches which

POWER SINGLE Equipment power ON – OFF

INTENSITY AUTO Varies the brightness of the CRT display.

FOCUS AUTO Varies the definition of the CRT display.

UNITS SINGLE Selects units of measurement METRES,

RANGE AUTO Selects the displayed range.

CURSOR AUTO Adjusts the position of the vertical line cursor.

SHIFT AUTO Adjusts the vertical position of the CRT display.

AMP AUTO Adjusts the vertical amplitude of the CRT display.

PULSE WIDTH SINGLE Selects the narrow or wide pulse available on

DIELECTRIC AUTO Selects the appropriate propagation velocity

PLOT SINGLE Initiates either analogue output to an external

SET AUTO Provides either the full scale output to the

RESET SINGLE Resets the plot output to 0V, terminates plotting,

L1 SINGLE Trace from line connected to L1 sockets

L1 &L2 SINGLE Traces from lines connected to both the L1

L1 - L2 SINGLE Difference between the traces of the lines

L1 -»L2 SINGLE Crosstalk between the lines connected to L1

L1 to M SINGLE Trace obtained on L1 transferred to memory.

M SINGLE The trace stored in memory will be displayed.

M & L1 SINGLE Trace from the line connected to L1 and the

M-L1 SINGLE Difference between the trace from the line

FILTER SINGLE Switches in a high pass filter to reject low

BALANCE Continuously variable control used to minimise

INTERFACE 15 Way D type socket for interfacing with

11.5-28V 2 Pin socket for d.c. supply. Associated lamp

LCD - The LCD provides the following information.

DISPLAY PULSE FILTER DIELECTRIC

The background is illuminated to facilitate use in low ambient light.

3. PREPARATION FOR USE

3.2. Operation from an a.c. supply

The d.c. supply lead to the unit is contained ¡n the middle

3.3. Operation from an external 11.5 - 28V d.c. supply

3.4. Operation from the internal battery

Complete discharge of the battery is prevented by a sensing circuit

Recharging from a.c.

Recharging from d.c.

3.5. Re-initialising the T535 when the battery has been