What tool would you use to measure signal strength in a cable network?

The choice of a power meter is appropriate for measuring signal strength in a cable network because it is specifically designed to assess the level of power in an electrical signal. This tool measures the strength of the signal that is being transmitted over the cable, allowing technicians to determine if the signal meets the required specifications for quality and reliability.

In a cable network, ensuring that the signal strength is within an optimal range is critical for proper functionality, affecting the quality of services such as internet and television. A power meter provides an accurate reading that reflects the actual signal level, making it an indispensable tool for technicians in this field.

Other tools have different functions: a cable tester is used primarily to check the integrity and connectivity of the cable, an oscilloscope is utilized for visualizing the waveform of electrical signals but is not typically used for direct signal strength measurement in this context, and a multimeter is designed for measuring voltage, current, and resistance but does not provide direct readings of signal strength in a cable network. Each of these tools serves important roles but does not specifically fulfill the requirement of measuring signal strength as effectively as a power meter does.