Cable operators need to perform certain field tests on their passive fiber optic cable systems in order to provide for the long term operation and maintenance of those cable systems. This paper will discuss the field testing required to properly characterize the optical condition of that plant so as to ensure the reliability of day to day operations. This paper discusses the relevancy and interrelationship of the data obtained from each of these different field tests normally conducted before, during, and after the installation of the passive fiber optic cable system.