Progress in field testing of shielded cables

Due to the increasing importance of cable shielding, a portable field tester is critical for maintaining shield performance. The transfer impedance meter (TIM) meets this need by checking the in situ performance of cable shields. It operates much like a milliohm meter, yet the transfer impedance data it acquires allow detection of high-frequency shield faults. The TIM weighs just 10 pounds, is only 4" by 8" by 8", and can operate continuously for 24 hours on rechargeable batteries. The TIM includes built-in diagnostic features which ensure proper test setup and ample battery voltage. Handheld TIM measurements are based on a patented technique for frequency domain measurements. The TIM incorporates an RF probe that connects to any MIL-C-38999 (or similar) connector. It is noted that, since high-frequency faults are becoming more troublesome and difficult to detect, the TIM is a practical tool now, and will be even more valuable in the future