National Semiconductor's datasheet (see here) has application examples and notes. You'll need a breadboard, power supply, etc. to test the IC outside your device. To test within the device (e.g. on a printed circuit board with other stuff), measure inputs with oscilloscope to see if either has AC present, note voltage levels, and check if output corresponds to input levels. Note also that comparators without hysteresis make fine oscillators when both inputs are approximately same level.
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