Insight on channel and CH test for copper cabling

This document will help in better understanding of cabling system components (Cable, Patch cord, jacks). Cabling system is generally tested for the performance as per the standard recommendation. The standard that prevails today for copper cabling systems is TIA-568.2-D and ISO/IEC 11801.

There are two important type of Testing that are performed to ensure that the system works in accordance to the standard defined values and to get the throughput as per requirement.

The two types of testing product involves in Copper cabling system are:

1. Channel Test

2. Connecting Hardware Test (Component)

There is also a specification for each individual component of a Channel. These specifications are much more difficult to test because field testers are configured to test a whole system not just a component. When a product is Component Rated it is assured of being interoperable with other OEM’s products within a Channel, meaning that you can "mix and match" products and still achieve Channel compliance.