| Fundamentals of an OTDR |
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What is an OTDR?
To ensure quality of service (QoS), network constructors, service providers and operators need to accurately pinpoint existing and potential problems, making test and measurement equipment vital. There are a number of test tools available that address the different testing needs at various stages of the network. Whether to characterize each component of the link, to pinpoint a potential problem with the fiber or to find a fault on your network, the use of an optical time
domain reflectometer (OTDR) is inevitable-from fiber network commissioning to troubleshooting and maintenance, an OTDR is the tool of choice.
The Basics
An OTDR combines a laser source and a detector to provide an inside view of the fiber link. The laser source sends a signal into the fiber where the detector receives the light reflected from the different elements of the link. This produces a trace on a graph made in accordance with the signal received, and a post-analysis event table that contains complete information on each network component is then generated. To continue reading click here |
| Selecting the Right OTDR |
 Not Just Performance and Price
The OTDR is a critical tool in the characterization and certification of fiber-optic links (multimode and singlemode LAN/Ethernet). When choosing an OTDR, it is important to select the specific OTDR performance and features needed to qualify these links accurately and to the required specification/standard.
There are a wide number of OTDR models available, addressing different test and measurement needs-from very simple fault finders to advanced OTDRs for link certification. To make the right choice, five fundamental parameters must be considered when purchasing an OTDR;
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