TL;DR
A time domain reflectometer (TDR) is a handy tool for diagnosing faults in wiring harnesses, but they can be prohibitively expensive for many DIY mechanics. László Szőke has developed an innovative, low-cost alternative using a C-Media USB audio device to send out sine waves instead of the traditional short electric pulses. This method allows users to measure the length of the wire and detect breaks by analyzing the phase shift of the reflections.
Why This Was Curated
The article presents a practical and innovative approach to building a time domain reflectometer using inexpensive hardware, making it highly relevant for software developers interested in hardware applications. It is accessible and actionable, providing insights into both the hardware and software aspects of the project, although it could benefit from more detailed step-by-step instructions.