CompTIA Network+ Practice Test

What can cable testers determine about a network cable?

1. The speed of data transmission

2. Continuity and identify missing pins

3. The type of cable being used

4. Signal strength and noise levels

The correct answer is: Continuity and identify missing pins

Cable testers are essential tools used in network installation and maintenance, and they primarily focus on verifying the integrity and connectivity of network cables. One of the key functions of cable testers is to check for continuity, which means they can determine whether a cable is properly connected end-to-end. This is crucial for ensuring that the data can flow through the cable without interruption. Additionally, cable testers can identify missing or miswired pins. Each pin in a network cable plays a specific role in the data transmission process, and if any of them are faulty or not properly connected, it can cause communication issues in the network. By identifying these problems, technicians can troubleshoot and remedy issues before the network goes live. In contrast, other cable tester functions—such as determining the speed of data transmission, identifying the type of cable, or measuring signal strength and noise levels—are not typically within the primary capabilities of standard cable testers. These aspects require specialized equipment or more advanced testing methods, making continuity checking and pin identification a fundamental and critical feature of cable testers in network evaluations.