Exfo CableSHARK P3 – VF/DSL cable qualifier

The EXFO CableSHARK P3 is a handheld VF/DSL cable qualifier engineered for field technicians performing comprehensive diagnostics on voice-frequency and DSL local loops. The instrument delivers efficient troubleshooting and qualification capabilities across multiple broadband and voice technologies, supporting ADSL2+, ADSL2, ADSL, G.Lite, VDSL, G.SHDSL, HDSL, HDSL2, T1, DDS, PRI ISDN, and BRI ISDN standards.

– Technical Specifications

Testing Bandwidth: Up to 6 MHz

TDR Capabilities:
• Maximum range: 45,000 ft
• Pulse width range: 28 nsec to 330 µsec
• High-resolution graphical TDR locates opens, shorts, bridge taps, splices, and loop faults with automatic loop length determination and distance-to-fault identification

Data Rate Prediction & Auto-Test:
• ADSL/ADSL2/ADSL2+/G.Lite: Single-ended DMT analysis with insertion loss, noise, and carrier bin capacity assessment
• G.SHDSL: Single-ended prediction with loop suitability evaluation
• User-modifiable Pass/Fail thresholds for automated testing

Voice Frequency Testing:
• VF Auto Test with pre-defined Pass/Fail criteria including TDR, DMM, load coil detection, capacitive imbalance, and longitudinal balance assessment
• Load coil identification with distance measurement
• Capacitive imbalance and longitudinal balance characterization

Electrical Measurements:
• Digital Multimeter: AC/DC voltage, resistance, and capacitance measurement
• Insertion loss (single-ended) and frequency response to 6 MHz
• Power Spectral Density noise analysis with spectrum coverage to 6 MHz
• Powerline harmonic analysis (60 Hz fundamental through 9th harmonic)
• Resistive fault location
• Stress/leakage testing with programmable soak time; detects faults up to 999 MΩ
• Loop current measurement

– Key Features

• CPE modem emulation with IP testing for end-to-end network connectivity verification
• Single-ended or paired testing architecture
• Smart NID compatibility
• High-resolution graphic display (640 × 480 VGA)

– Typical Applications

Local loop qualification for ADSL, SHDSL, and voice services; cable fault location and characterization; pre-qualification diagnostics; pair balance and integrity assessment.

– Compatibility & Integration

Supports Smart NID connections. Dual-unit configuration enables end-to-end measurements between remote locations.