It sounds like your are referring to a 'surge comparison test'. This test compares the inductance of the two windings under test by sending voltage pulses through the windings. The resulting inductive response is displayed on an oscilloscope with the two patterns overlayed. If the patterns match then the inductances match and it can be assumed that there are no turn-to-turn shorts in either winding.
To apply this test to the rotor of a synchronous machine, you must (assuming series connection) find the center point of the rotor circuit and compare each half of the winding. This test is similar to a voltage drop test in that it will determine if there are any shorted coils.