Abstract: A portable, automated telephone line test device includes a test module which applies test signals to a telephone line to be tested and detects electrical characteristics of the telephone line, and a user interface module. The user interface module includes a microprocessor, a display, a keyboard and a program memory in accordance with a standard microcomputer architecture. The processor of the user interface module is programmed to control the test module to perform a pre-programmed sequence of tests. The display provides indications of the tests being performed. The programmed sequence is varied by the device according to test results. Depending on the results obtained, the device also provides interpretative diagnostic messages and instructs the user to carry out additional test procedures.

Abstract: The invention provides a system and method for testing a telephone or communications line to determine if the line qualifies for a particular type or class of communications service, for example DSL service. In accordance with one embodiment, a potential customer can download a software program. The program first performs a DSL distance qualification calculation. If the customer' line passes this step, the program determines whether the line coupled between the customer and a central office servicing that customer is electrically qualified for DSL communications. A series of tests to measure signal levels, noise, and other characteristics are performed by a test server, which generally include local loop tests to determine the presence of bridged taps, load coils, and subscriber line concentrators. After the tests are completed, the customer can receive the results, order completion and other instructions.