Single-Ended Testing
Most tests require both ends of a wire be attached to a tester. Some wires may only connect on one end. In this case, you can perform single-ended testing. While not as thorough as testing a cable fully attached to the tester, single-ended testing performs a simple test to verify a cable connected only on one end.
How to perform Single-Ended Testing
Single-ended testing can be performed with the Cirris 4250 Cable Tester (not using easy-wire software). The tester uses capacitance to detect wires connected to the tester, even when they are only connected on one end.
Note: Because the tester uses capacitance, the test will get a more accurate reading if the wires are gathered into a tight bundle. Loose wires can separate, creating less capacitance and skewing test results. Use webbing or zip ties to hold wires together.
The single-ended test settings are found under the components menu. There are two settings for single-ended testing:
- SE Wire – Checks for an attached wire.
- SE Pin – Checks that no wire is attached.
Each setting requires you to set a value.
- SE Wire – The attached wire must test above the set value to be detected.
- SE Pin – The attached pin must test below the set value to be ignored.
You may need to play with this value until you find the right measurement. The tester should detect attached wires, but ignore points with no wire attached.
Learning a Single-Ended Test Program
Once the values are set, the cable can be Learned to generate a test program. Attach the cable to the tester and press Learn.
Important: It is important to use a KNOWN GOOD cable when performing the Learn. The tester will create a test program using the wires detected in the Learned cable. If a defected cable is used, it will affect every cable tested using the test program.
Note: Single-ended testing takes sensitive measurements. For accurate results, be consistent during the Learn and the test. For example, if you grip the cable during the Learn, grip the cable during testing.
When the tester has Learned the cable, it will ask you to detach the cable. The tester will null out the background capacitance of the tester and fixturing. Once the Learn is complete, the tester will generate a test program for the single-ended cable.
Performing a Single-Ended Test
With the test program loaded, make sure the cable is not attached to the tester and press Test.
Note: If the cable is attached, the tester will ask you to remove the cable before the test can begin.
Once the tester has nulled out the background capacitance, it will ask you to attach the cable and will run the test again. If any wires or pins do not match those values acquired in the Learn, the test will fail.
If a cable is made up of connected wires (attached at both ends) and single-ended wires, the tester can still perform single-ended testing. During the Learn, the tester can edit individual instruction values. If you want another way to ensure the tester only tests the correct wires, export the test program onto a flash drive and check the values on a PC (see the user manual for instruction on using the USB Thumb Drive).
If you are interested in single-ended testing, check out the Cirris 4250 Cable Tester.
