If my assumption that the 3-Pair CW1308 cables coming from the downstairs distribution cable are the flats' incoming phone lines is correct, then there's definitely something between those and the cables coming into the extension sockets pictured by the OP - as they seem to be using purple cable which is likely LSZH Cat5 or Cat5e.

Note that pin 3 on this extension socket is defintely connected, hence my suggestion.

In reply to a post by RobertoS:

But there are only two wires coming in to attach the tester to. No pins at all.

You test from the extension socket in the flat using an adapter like one of these or one of these

Ahhhh. Sorry .

I was forgetting we are discussing this particular setup with that rack.

In reply to a post by caffn8me:

In reply to a post by RobertoS:

But there are only two wires coming in to attach the tester to. No pins at all.

You test from the extension socket in the flat ...

Only just seen this. As I said earlier, BatBoy's question was about remote testing. You are talking here about local testing.

In reply to a post by Zarjaz:

Another issue is that the line with no NTE across it would fail remote testing as 'dis(connected)' Not technically an issue, but a stumbling block to fault reporting and the like ....

In reply to a post by BatBoy:

Does that mean it's possible to check if a master socket actually exists on the line? If so, how?

In reply to a post by RobertoS:

As I said earlier, BatBoy's question was about remote testing. You are talking here about local testing.

In reply to a post by BatBoy:

Does that mean it's possible to check if a master socket actually exists on the line? If so, how?

As far as I can ascertain, BatBoy's question was decidedly non-specific about testing location

Look at the post that gave rise to it. I gave you both. Check I haven't fiddled the juxtaposition if you like but I assure you I haven't.

There is no need for posters habitually to quote all of or from the post they are replying to. The forum chaining/linking system in both threaded and flat mode makes it unnecessary. Quoting is only needed at all if there is possible confusion or to highlight a specific point.

Sorry, I did mean remote testing and I think Zarjaz's answer confirmed remote testing is possible

In reply to a post by Zarjaz:

Does that mean it's possible to check if a master socket actually exists on the line? If so, how?

Physically connecting a JDSU or Exfo across the pair and testing towards the customer

Your answer is equally helpful

Edited by deleted (Wed 10-May-17 18:46:58)

In reply to a post by BatBoy:

Your answer is equally helpful

I agree about that with reference to the specific case of this thread . There's no way I have the knowledge to argue with Sarah or MHC over the technical side.

It did indeed

If one had the directory number a remote test would easily prove the presence of an NTE 'somewhere' on the circuit.

Sorry for the slow response, I wanted to leave the connection running in the second socket for a few days before posting an update.

Since moving the router to the second socket I believe there's been a significant improvement in stability. In the last few days I've only seen one disconnection whereas in the other socket it would disconnect every few minutes at certain times of the day.

I'm going to surmise that the other socket is picking up interference from somewhere and that the second socket I'm now using has a better route to the master socket wherever that is in the building.