Dual time base zero dead zone time domain reflectometer

Abstract

A dual time base, zero dead zone time domain reflectometer repetitively launches a predetermined number of stimulus pulses into a transmission system in synchronism with clock signals from a first time base, providing a measurement cycle. The duration of the launched stimulus pulses, determined by a predetermined number clock cycles from the first time base, exceeds the total propagation time of the system to be measured so that a time interval between a launch and a reflection may be measured within the launched pulse. A second time base, which has a predetermined period that differs from the period of the first time base and defines a measurement period divided into equal sub-periods, continuously produces clock signals, one or more of which may be counted during the time interval. The result is that over a predetermined number of repetitive pulses launched and associated time intervals presented to the second time base and count logic circuits, a count signal will be produced for each incremental sub-period occurring during the time interval being measured. Accordingly, the total count is proportional to the duration of the time interval being measured. Since the measured time interval is produced by the launched pulse and its reflection, there is no dead zone. Also, the circuit design is very simple, and lends itself to manifestation in a low cost, low power, hand-held and battery operated TDR for locating faults on 10 base-T, Token Ring, T1, Telco lines, and other twisted-wire pair applications in local area networks, as well as general cable testing.