An OTDR is most commonly used to test large fiber optic links. However, an OTDR can also be used to maximize i.e. "optimize" the light throughput of a quick-termination connector. Similarly, an OTDR can be used to optimize a mechanical splice that is used to join a pigtail to the field fiber. "Mini" OTDR's are especially useful for this purpose since they are compact and easy to use.
Optimizing connectors and splices involves taking advantage of your OTDR's real-time trace capability. As is always the case with when using an OTDR, you will need a launch cable that is longer than the OTDR’s “dead-zone.” In most cases, a 30-meter patchcord or a 30-meter pulse suppressor will provide the length that you need.
The following explains the general steps involved, although these steps can vary according to the features of your particular OTDR.
1. After attaching the launch cable to the OTDR, switch the OTDR to Short Pulse mode.
2. Next, attach the other end of the launch cable to the connector (or pigtail) by using the appropriate mating sleeve.
3. Press the Scan button on your OTDR to begin a trace. Initially, you will see only a short trace that depicts your launch cable.
4. After stripping and cleaving your field fiber, carefully feed the fiber into the connector.
You will see the scan of the field fiber rise up the OTDR screen. This shows that the optical connection is improving as the field fiber approaches the launch fiber.
If your OTDR has a 2-point loss feature, you can use this feature to provide a good estimate of the light throughput of your connector or splice. This involves placing the OTDR's A and B screen cursors immediately before and after the spike. This spike was caused by the mating of the connector and the fiber.
This optimization technique can help you to reduce labor time and scraped connectors or splices. It will also serve to verify that you have achieved the proper connectivity before the fiber is permanently secured.
Also, when using a Bobtail Quick Term Connector you can use a simple visual fault locator to optimize the connection. The Bobtail has a translucent section that allows the visible light of the VFL to shine through the connector body as you insert the field fiber. Once the field fiber reaches the internal stub fiber, the light should no longer be visible. This indicates that a proper mating of the two fibers has been achieved.
3 comments:
Power in a fiber optic system is like voltage in an electrical circuit - it's what makes things happen! It's important to have enough power, but not too much. Too little power and the receiver may not be able to distinguish the signal from noise; too much power overloads the receiver and causes errors too.
CompressionConnector.com - compression connector, connectors, connector, cable tools, cable crimper, cable, cable connector, cable connectors
I've always wondered if subscriber only content really was anything more special - usually I find it's the same kind of stuff, just in a different wrapper!
I have no intention of doing that on my blog, if someone likes what you write, then they will want to subscribe or be a regular return visitor no matter - either of which is good with me!
Good O' Fiber Optics. I think that 100G is the future.
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