Alabama Private Investigator Practice Exam

What is a handheld instrument that resembles a cordless phone and is used to identify telephone lines called?

1. Signal tester

2. Line finder

3. Butt set

4. Phone locator

The correct answer is: Butt set

A handheld instrument that resembles a cordless phone and is used to identify telephone lines is known as a butt set. This device allows investigators or technicians to connect directly to a telephone line for testing purposes without needing to detach the line from the main circuit. The butt set features a built-in speaker and keypad, enabling the user to make calls for communication checks or listen to the line’s activity, making it a vital tool in telecommunications and investigations. Its design resembles a cordless phone, which aids in portability and ease of use. While other options like signal testers, line finders, and phone locators serve specific functions in telecommunications, they do not fit the description as closely as a butt set. A signal tester typically measures signal strength, a line finder is intended for locating wire paths, and a phone locator might identify phone devices rather than directly interacting with the line. Thus, the butt set is uniquely suited for identifying and testing telephone lines.