How to choose the proper fiber optic test equipment
Fiber optic test equipment is indispensable for any technician dealing with fiber optic systems, even the most experienced.
The most commonly used test equipments include fiber optic power meter, fiber multimeter, fiber optic light source, fiber fault locator and optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR).
- -the power meter is designed for absolute fiber optic power measurement and any measurement related to fiber optic loss
- -the fiber optic light source, used together with the power meter, tests for loss in the fiber system
- -a fiber multimeter is an integrated unit of light source and power meter
- -the optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) is the easiest to use, but also the most expensive piece of fiber optic test equipment; it is extremely efficient because it can give an overview of the whole system by testing its fiber length, joint point and loss
- -a fiber fault locator, obviously, is used to test for faults in the optic fiber
Once all the cables are installed, every fiber optic cable plant must be tested for continuity, end-to-end loss, power and individual splices (like in the case of a long outside plant cable). And even for the most experienced installers, such tests and measurements cannot be done without the proper fiber optic test equipment. So in order to test the system for any potential malfunctions, make sure you have a source and power meter, an optical loss test kit with adapters for the cable plant that has to be tested, as well as reference test cables. These test cables must match the cables to be tested. Also, don't forget the mating adapters, hybrids too if needed, the fiber fault locator and the OTDR. Besides the proper fiber optic test equipment, you will also need some launch cable for outdoors, some cleaning wipes (make sure they are lint-free) and pure alcohol.
There are several things that ought to be taken into consideration when choosing a fiber optic test equipment. Bear in mind the specifications of the fiber system to be tested, including the fiber light source type, fiber connection interface, working wavelength, fiber optic glass type (single mode or multi mode), the system capacity and possible loss range. Also, think of the target working environment. Will you be using it for indoor or outdoor systems? Consider the working temperature of the fiber optic test equipment, as well as battery life and power supply. Preferably, choose a test equipment that can also use common battery types, as most portable fiber test equipment can use battery as power. Be thorough in what concerns the function and quality of the equipment, as fiber optic test equipment is an important investment.
Needless to say, all tools must be tested to work properly before you start the actual fiber optic testing. Figure out exactly how they work before you go on the field. After verifying that all tools work properly, make sure that you have cable layouts for each fiber you have to test.