Complete Guide on How to Check if Cable Outlet Is Active

Cables are most convenient at home and are applicable in connecting electrical components such as televisions, etc. In some circumstances, one can find it challenging to know if the cable is active or not, especially when the electrical components fail to function. It is challenging to test the cable outlets to see if they are working correctly.

Most people may keep asking themselves the question, “how can I check if the cable outlet is active or not?”. In response to the question, there are some of the techniques that are effective and will determine if your cable outlet is active or not. For instance, you can use a multimeter, a coax tester, or even trace and check the cable.

Fortunately, the article below explains some of these methods and ensures you follow them carefully to get accurate results. Also, you get some information on how to make your cable outlet that is functioning correctly. I hope this article will answer the question that has been disturbing you.

Steps on how to check if the cable outlet is active

You can use several methods to test the cable outlet and see if it is active. Here are some of the techniques.

• Using a coax tester

• Using a multimeter

• Tracing and checking the cable

Check this quick table;

Tools necessary;

• Coax cable

• Coax tester

• Multimeter

1. Using a coax tester

Using a coax tester is a straightforward way to check if your cable outlet is active. It is even easier than the other two methods as it does not have to trace the end of the coax cable and test it. When you are using the coax cable, follow the steps below;

i. First, find the location of the battery of the coax tester and see if it is in the correct position. The coax testers usually use a battery.

ii. Connect the test injector to the one end of your outlet cable and see the name of the injector that is usually on the speaker end.

iii. Connect the tone generator to the outlet cable’s “end side.”

iv. See if there is an emission of a high-pitch signal on the tone generator side. If so, it is an indication that the cable outlet is active. Also, if the cable is active, the other side will light up either green or red, depending on which tester you are using.

Most people prefer using the coax tester due to the following reasons;

• It is easy to use

• It is cheap

It is due to their distinguishable features that come with them, such as remote. But, if you want a cheaper coax cable, I recommend the generic coax cable from amazon.

2. Using a multimeter

Follow the steps below to use your multimeter in testing the cable.

i. Configure the multimeter

First, start by setting the multimeter. Please switch it on and enable the continuity test to record the voltages. Connect the black probe to the COM socket, or if your multimeter has a negative symbol, use it and connect to the standard socket. Then, connect the red probe to the positive sign. Record the readings that must be zero. If the readings fluctuate, the investigations are not functioning correctly and require replacement.

ii. Test the cable

First, unplug the coax cables from the splitter and receiver to test the cable. Bring the test leads while holding them carefully to the central connector and ensure ends don’t contact the shield or even the external metal parts. If the cables are functioning correctly, the multimeter will record around 2 to 3 ohms. Such depends on the size of the cable.

The recordings may be up to 20 ohms if you have a long cable. Repeat the process for the shield or the connectors, and the recordings must be the same. See if there is short-circuit in the cable by testing the continuity between the pin and the connector. You can do this by holding the test leads to the central pin or shield, and if the readings are zero, there is no short-circuit or if they open. But if the lessons are faulty, then the cable is not active.

3. Tracing and checking the cable

The technique requires an expert since it is very tricky. Sometimes, a disconnection may exist where the cable disconnects from the distribution panel. First, screw all the screws from the wall and short end to the wall jack. Connect the longer cable to the corresponding post. Check the coaxial adapter pin to see if it is loose, as loosening prevents the cable from being active.

Correct the loose cables by tightening them. Also, check the testing unit, and if there is a green light at the front of the testing panel, it is an indication that the cable is functioning correctly. If the indicator fails to light, it is an indication that the cable is not active. To get accurate results, ensure the coaxial adapter is in frim at both ends and correct panel settings.

Activating a coax cable outlet

Follow the steps below to activate the coax cable outlet

i. Find the location of the splitter

Check the wiring, and it is usually five feet from the ground if you cannot locate it. Look at the coax lines and look carefully for the wiring present. The cable usually runs from the house box to the house, and other times, it leaves the house box and stretches along as it enters the home. Locate the position of the splitter, and it is usually at the Midco-approved fittings.

ii. Locate the position of the “out” port

First, record the splitter by taking pictures using your smartphone for easy reconnection. Look for the “in” port, and its routing is distinguishable from other cables, and others have some labels that will help you identify it quickly. Tighten the wires passing through the “in” port using a wrench but don’t over tighten as you may damage or break the cable.

Find the position of the splitter’s “out” port. Use one to pass it through the wall outlet in a room. If you have a different adapter, leave it in position, and you can use some network for some devices.

iii. Activate the cable outlet

After finding the position of the “out” port of the splitter, establish a connection between the coax cable and the wall outlet when activating it. Tighten the cable passing through the “out” port and avoid over tightening to avoid breaking the cable. Also, ensure you use the correct cable to pass through the wall and connect the cable to your electrical appliances such as television or modem.

After all the processes above, the cable will be active and ensure that the devices you are using are functioning. But if you fail to activate, repeat the process above before seeking help from an expert. The electrical appliances you may connect are; Satellite television, among others.

Steps on how to make your cable outlet

Sometimes, you may find it expensive to get a cable outlet from an expert and wish to make one on your own. Here are some of the steps you can follow;

Tools necessary;

1. Pencil

2. Drilling machine

3. spade

i. Mark the electrical ox

Find the location you wish to make the outlet and, using a pencil, make some markings. Mark around the electrical box carefully and ensure you trace it first.

ii. Make a hole

This step requires you to use a drilling machine. Make the hole where there are some markings in the wall’s top plate.

Check the BLACK + DECKER 20V MAX* POWERCONNECT Cordless drilling machine from Amazon.

iii. Measure the length

Take the length from the end of the wall and the stud. Poke through the ceiling that is slightly above the drilled hole. Using a spade, drill a hole and tape the ends of the cable on its ends.

iv. Position the fish tape through the wall in an upward manner

Begin by pulling the fish tape in the recommended direction through the wall. Finally, you have made your outlet and ensure you follow the steps above carefully. It is a straightforward thing to do independently instead of seeking help from an expert. But, if you cannot do such a process, it is essential to seek help.

Final thoughts

The article states all the methods you can use to test the cable outlet if you are unsure if they are functioning correctly. For instance, you can use a multimeter, a coax tester, among others.

I hope this article was of great importance to you and it helped check if the cable outlet is active. By using the steps above, you can successfully determine if your cable outlet is active or not. Good luck with your testing.