Lesson material 1: Technology in Use

The Basic Service Tool Kit of a Telecom

Technician

For a tech working in any industry, a proper tool-kit is vital to performing their job. Telecom
service installers and maintenance techs in the telecommunications industry are no
exception.

Telecommunications, or telecom, is the industry that deals with the exchange of information
via electronic systems across large distances. Examples of telecom companies include
telephone providers, cable providers, internet service providers and more. Some telecom
companies are even in charge of maintaining emergency broadcast systems. Their main
objective is to provide their clients with reliable telecom services.

So, for those working in a telecom field, a proper kit of telecom tools is needed. Those that
belong to a mechanic won't suffice, even though they both use the standard array of
screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers. The specialized duties of these jobs call for a special set
of gear.

Telecommunications Service Provider's Toolkit

Lineman's Handset

Lineman's Handset with Clips

Similar to a standard "house-phone", a Lineman's Handset (aka: "Butt-phone") is used to test
the functionality of phone lines. Built to withstand industrial use, these telecom lineman tools
are typically compact and durable. These phones are used to listen for a dial-tone, as well as
calling out over tone or pulse networks. They assist a field service technician in determining
if communications service to a single line is active or if something is damaged.

The most noticable difference between this handset and a regular phone is the lack of a
traditional phone connection. A Lineman's Handset uses alligator clips in order to clamp
directly onto the wires or connectors.

Electrical Multimeter

Typical Multimeter

Normally found in an Electrician's tool-kit, Multimeters are now the industry standard of
telecommunication tools. These little devices measure the electrical current within a line.
This allows for a faster determination of whether or not a line is currently transmitting, and it
can even assist in finding out if a cable is operating at a reduced capacity due to a fault in the
network.

Cable Crimper

Cable Crimper for mid-range Copper Connectors

Many people are unaware of exactly how wires end up in a network. They don't all come
with plugs or connectors built in, and even if they did, on occasion they become damaged
and need repair.

Cable Crimpers are an important part of any telecom tool kit. They come in many varieties
and sizes and many are even application specific. Crimpers are basically a set of pliers, but
with the ability to strip cable ends as well as attach connectors. Common uses in Telecom for
these tools are to connect and repair Coaxial cables, Phone lines, and Ethernet cords.

Telecom techs require specialized tools for the work they do.
Lineman's handset, electrical multimeter and and cable crimper are
a few such tools that make it possible to saftly test equipment and
lines to ensure that the network stays functional.
Source: https://www.dpstele.com/network-monitoring/telecom/index.php