Otdr test setup

The larger the pulse width, the longer the launch cable and receive cables. Always notice that launch and receive cables must be the same type as the fiber under test. The successful use of an OTDR requires knowing how to operate the instrument, choosing the proper measurement parameters and correctly interpreting the traces.

The range should be at least twice the length of the cable you are testing. Longer ranges will make the resolution of the trace poorer, and shorter ranges may create distortions in the trace. This is usually listed in nanoseconds ns , with typical choices of 10 to 30 ns. After initial tests, you can make measurements at the longer wavelengths 1, nm on multimode and 1, nm on single-mode and compare traces at the two wavelengths.

Number of averages for each trace : To improve the signal-to-noise ratio of the trace, the OTDR can average multiple measurements, but the more averaging, the more time it takes. Usually, 16 to 64 averages are adequate. The OTDR is an important investment in ensuring the reliability of fiber optic networks. As such, the OTDR measurements themselves need to be highly reliable and accurate. Low grade OTDRs will come at higher risks and eventually higher costs. Simplicity and ease of use: Given the complexity involved in OTDR testing, look for automated test processes and results analysis.

Smart diagnostics and intuitive visual displays can help field crews up their efficiency with minimal training. Ruggedness and compact form-factor: With fiber densification, OTDR usage will intensify in the field, in data centers and even near customer premises. Look for ODTRs designed with practicality and ruggedness in mind. Each application has specific testing requirements. The wide array of options available today can be overwhelming.

Amy, our smart online chabot on the bottom right of your screen, can also help you find your best fit! OTDR testing Fiber optic link characterization and troubleshooting. All solutions OTDR testing. How to buy Request a quote Contact a sales representative Ask an expert. Description Related products Resources. Guidelines for installing or troubleshooting optical fiber links Getting it right the first time when installing or troubleshooting optical cables means reliable testing equipment and procedures.

Operator 4. Test equipment used 5. Test wavelength s 6. Store trace Include documentation on location of events and lengths as appropriate. The Fiber Optic Association, Inc. Fiber Optic Testing. QuickStart Guide:. OTDR Testing. We'll give you the basic information you need and provide some printable references. Just go to the topics below to find the information you need. Links to videos and more comprehensive information will be provided in each section.

OTDRs were originally designed to test and troubleshoot long haul networks. Place one of the markers on the OTDR usually called Marker A just before the reflectance peak from the connection between the launch cable and the cable under test.

Place the second marker usually called Marker B just before the reflectance peak from the connection between the cable under test and the receive cable.

If no receive cable is used, there should still be a reflectance peak from the final connector on the cable under test. The OTDR will calculate the length of the segment between the markers. Measurement Uncertainty 1. Toggle navigation. Roles Architects, Consultants and Designers.

News Blog Social Media. Find a Reseller Call Us. The settings used may be slightly different from the nominal values selected on the OTDR tab.

Listed below are the settings you can change in manual OTDR mode and how the settings affect the trace. Auto : The tester selects the range that is nearest to, but not less than the end of the fiber. These ranges are not limited to the fixed ranges provided. Manual range selections: You select the range.