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Continuity Testing of USB Type-C Cables Using the Advanced Cable Tester v2
Rena

Question from the Customer:

I am using the Advanced Cable Tester v2 on two functionally identical USB Type-C cables. However, the report doesn’t show these cables as identical: one cable passed everything on the physical wiring section, but the other cable failed on SBU1 and SBU2 under the physical wiring section. I have checked all wiring and functions of these two cables to make sure the setups are the same.  How are these results measured?

Response from Technical Support:

Thanks for your question! Here’s an overview about how the Advanced Cable Tester v2 works:

Continuity Testing on USB Type-C Cables

For the digital pins, which are defined as SBU1, SBU2, DP1/DM1, and DP2/DM2, a simple continuity test is used to verify presence or absence. This test fails if the lines are AC coupled between the U and D ports of the Advanced Cable Tester v2.

This test consists of applying a voltage at one end of the cable and measuring the incoming signal at the far end of the cable. The inputs are weakly pulled to the voltage rail (supply voltage) to prevent false readings from a floating conductor.

Additional Information about the Advanced Cable Tester v2

Want to see the Advanced Cable Tester v2 in action? Take a look at our video demonstration on this tool.

Testing USB, Apple Lightning, and Video Cables with the Advanced Cable Tester v2:

 

Additional resources that you may find helpful include the following:

We hope this answers your question. Need more information? You can contact us and request a demo that applies to your application, as well as ask questions about our host adapters and other Total Phase products.

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