Wired Diagnosis. Detection, Localization and Characterization of Defects in Complex Wired Networks

Modern electronic systems still rely heavily on wired networks, whether for power supply or signal transmission, and these functions require highly reliable interconnections. In the early 2000s, aging electrical cables were identified as a major risk factor for air transport. The same applies to many safety-critical systems (systems whose failure can cause injury to human beings) such as road and rail transport, nuclear power plant control and intensive care medical systems.

To improve the reliability of cable networks, or to help with their maintenance, it is necessary to know their state of health, and to be able to detect any faults. The most promising diagnostic method is reflectometry. Based on the injection of one or more probe signals into the network and analysis of the reflected signals, this method provides useful information for network management. In particular, it can be used to locate faults, so as to target maintenance and limit downtime.

It is suitable for networks with complex topology, and for continuous monitoring of the network even during operation, in order to detect intermittent faults, or to monitor the evolution of fault severity, so that repairs can be carried out at the most opportune moment.

This article presents the theoretical and practical aspects of wireline network diagnostics and summarizes the main issues involved.