Do you know how to test a coax cable? Most internet users are probably unfamiliar with this process, but it can be a very helpful tool to work out the root cause of your internet issues.
The coaxial cable is vital in transmitting television, telephone, and data signals to provide household internet connectivity.
In this article, we outline two main approaches to testing whether your coaxial cable outlet has an internet signal.
Firstly, you can test the quality of the connection without using any tools, by simply connecting it to your modem and running a few processes such as a device restart or factory reset.
Alternatively, you can use a coax tester tool to test whether a signal is available.
These tools are affordable and can provide fast and accurate results, typically flashing green when there is an internet signal.
What Are Coax Cables And What Is Their Purpose?
Coaxial cables, often referred to as coax cables, are very common in most household internet setups.
The cable’s primary role is transmitting television signals and establishing connections among audio-visual apparatus. They also boast potential for data and telephone implementations.
Most cable-using businesses employ coaxial cables to link residences and commercial establishments to their network infrastructure.
The inner core is commonly crafted from aluminum or copper and is the principal signal conductor.
The external conductor, alternatively recognized as the shield, is typically composed of foil or woven copper wire and plays an important role in protecting the signal against interference.
Approaches To Testing A Coax Outlet For Internet Signal
Below we outline the two main approaches to testing whether your coaxial outlet has an internet signal or not:
1. Testing a Coaxial Cable Without Using Tools: Connect the Coax Cable to the Modem
The simplest method for assessing your coaxial cable socket involves linking a cable modem to the outlet. We recommend having a pair of coaxial cables on hand, which is helpful when one does not work.
Be attentive to the indicators on your modem. When they’re all in their typical state, it means that the signal is functioning properly. If this is not the case, implement some of the fixes outlined below to see if it works.
The first thing that you should do is try using an alternative coaxial cable. The initial cable might be damaged without you noticing.
If this doesn’t work, your devices may have errors caused by recent data directives (cache), which can lead to device disruptions. If this is the case, disconnect your device for a duration of 30 seconds, then reconnect it.
If the usual indicators are still absent, we strongly advise acquiring an inexpensive coaxial testing instrument.
The next step you can take is to verify whether there are any service interruptions in your area. If there is none, consider restoring your modem to its factory settings.
Remember, a factory reset will erase all the configurations of your modem.
To do this, use a thin object like a paper clip or a pin. Press and hold the ‘Reset’ button located on the rear of your device for about 15 seconds.
You should hear a clicking noise on the reset button to confirm it has been pressed.
After releasing the button, give the modem a few minutes and if there are no indicators, then your coaxial outlet does not have a signal.
2. Testing a Coaxial Cable Using a Coax Testing Tool
Coaxial testing tools are compact instruments that indicate whether your coaxial outlet is operational within seconds. There is some price variability in these devices but typically they can cost around $20.
In our experience, we have used a variety of coaxial testing tools and most of them work well.
To operate these devices, simply insert them into a cable or coaxial outlet and then press the button.
Testing tools can differ in how they show results.
Generally, a device will display a green light when there is a signal present, while a red light means that there is no signal.
It’s crucial to consult your tool’s instructions as occasionally, these devices emit a high-pitched sound to indicate signal status.
If your coax testing device does not illuminate at all, it implies that the coaxial port is inactive often due to a depleted battery.
If there is no visible light, confirm that the battery is correctly aligned within the device and retest.
How Do Coax Testers Operate?
Most coaxial testers use voltage to identify an active outlet, while some testers recognize signals delivered by your internet service provider.
All you need to do is insert this device and watch for an illuminated indicator (or listen for a beep).
When voltage is used to locate coaxial signals, there is a possibility of encountering erroneous positive indications due to concealed splitters and exposed coaxial wiring.
How To Test A Coaxial Outlet With A Multimeter
A multimeter measures current, resistance, and voltage. It provides valuable information for identifying issues, and measuring electrical circuits.
Their usage extends beyond that of a coaxial tester, as they enable you to test aging batteries and light bulbs.
However, their operation is not as straightforward as a simple plug-and-play approach.
The setup process is explained below:
Step 1: Set the Multimeter Up
- Power it on and select ‘Continuity Test.’ Some devices might lack this label, so watch for the omega (Ω) symbol.
- Attach the black prong to the COM socket. If ‘COM’ isn’t visible, seek ‘negative.’
- Insert the red prong into the ‘positive+’ socket. This socket could display an omega symbol.
- Once both prongs are connected, your multimeter should read zero or close. To verify functionality, touch the prongs’ metal tips and listen for a beep.
Step 2: Test The Outlet
- Remove the wall plate and unscrew the coaxial cable.
- Place one prong lead, the metal section, on the cable’s outer metal tip. Press the other lead onto the cable’s central pin.
- The choice of lead for testing each part is arbitrary.
- A sound indicates a shorted cable, possibly due to clamping or excessive bending.
What Can I Do When the Coaxial Outlet Fails to Generate an Internet Signal?
Hold off on contacting your internet service provider at this point. Remove the coax outlet plate from your wall and make sure to securely fasten the cable to the back of the plate.
In case you’re residing in an apartment, you should confirm the cable connectivity. Contact your landlord and inform them of the non-functional coaxial port. The landlord should inspect the community’s junction box to verify the connectivity.
In any other case, whether you’re a tenant or a homeowner, you’ll need to locate where your coaxial cables lead.
Typically, you can locate coaxial splitting boxes outside your residence or within the basement.
After identifying the point of intersection for your coaxial cables, ensure that they are securely linked.
If you continue to experience no internet signal on your coaxial outlet, your next step is to reach out to your internet service provider.
Final Words
Hopefully, you’re now clear on how to test a coax cable to verify if an internet signal is available.
There are two main approaches, first testing without a coax tester and second testing with a coax tester.
We recommend investing in a coax tester as they are available for a decent price and give you fast and accurate results, without needing to reset any devices.
If you’re unsure about which step to take, first restart your devices and try an alternative cable to see if that solves the issue.
If no solutions in this article solve your issue, contact your internet service provider for more information.
