Fiber-optic testers are diagnostic tools that evaluate the correct operation of the installed fiber-optic components, cables and connectors . Any mechanical and optical test must follow the standards.
What parameters should be tested?
- Continuity
- Polarity
- Insertion Loss (attenuation or loss in cables & connectors)
- Optical Power (transmitter & receiver)
- Fault Location
- Cable Geometry
- Reflectance
- Dispersion
Fiber Optic Tester Types:
- OLS (Optical light source): With light bulb or LED which provides the illumination to any fiber-optic system.
- OPM (Optical power meter): To measure the power of optical signal at output of transmitter and input of receiver (the difference in power level indicates the power loss)
- VFL (Visual fault locator): With light bulb or LED and visible light, checking the continuity and polarity, finding the fault location
- OFI (Optical fiber identifier): To find the presence of optical signals in the cable.
- OLTS (Optical Loss Test Set): To measure the insertion loss of installed equipment. Contains Light Source and Power Meter (LSPM).
- Fiber connector microscope: Check the situation (cleanliness) of cables and connectors.
- OTDR (optical time domain reflectometer): Is a comprehensive testing device for diagnosing and troubleshooting of the fiber cables and connectors.
Note: Some network equipment suppliers provide a set of required tools for installation and testing of fiber-optic based systems in small projects or common application as a special package for sales!
Fiber Optic Standards:
- IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission)
- TIA/EIA (Telecommunications Industries Association / Electronic Industries Alliance)
- IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force)
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