Let's put field testing of cable in perspective

It may take many years to establish what method or variation of method has the greatest merit for all the components of a cable system. DC testing is an excellent choice for PILC cable systems, regardless of their age. DC testing and high-energy discharges shorten the life of XLPE that has been in a moist environment for five or more years. There are no data to be certain if dc testing or surges shorten the life of EPR cable systems that have been in moist environments. There are many other test methods, other than dc that seem to have great promise for all types of cables, joints, and terminations, but limited history.