Why do we need an optical power meter?
An optical power meter is required for testing either cable that has already been installed or for a new cable run.
Testing can take a lot of time and time is money. Lots of time and cost can be saved if you know the correct measurements that need to be made.
Testing is easier if you also understand how to make these measurements correctly.
You need to have the proper tools to achieve this. Not only that but you need to keep them in good condition as well.
This means regular cleaning and calibrations if required.
Accurate testing will ensure that no good cables are rejected and that no bad cables are missed.
Testing requirements:-
All fiber cables should be tested at least for continuity, proper end to end connections and most importantly loss.
In general standards prefer the 1 reference cable loss method.
This means that the optical power meter and light source must have the same fibre optic connector type as the cable under test.
Not always possible in the real world. If you are presented with this you would need to look at the three reference cable method.
Therefore, either of these methods is acceptable just make sure you have everything well documented.
Optical Power Meter characteristics.
The InGaAs detector in our optical power meter is pre-calibrated for 850, 1300nm for Multimode and 1310, 1490, 1550nm and 1625nm for Singlemode wavelengths.
Our Optical Power Meter series supports Wave ID which allows the power meter to automatically detect the incoming wavelengths transmitted by the Laser Source and adjusts itself accordingly.
Additionally it has the ability to identify tones generated at 270Hz, 330Hz, 1KHz and 2KHz to assist in fault finding and fiber location.
The internal memory holds up to 1000 results which can be downloaded through the USB port and onto the PC with the included reporting software.
The Yamasaki Optical Power meter also features an ambient light sensor which allows the LCD to automatically adjust to the brightness of your surrounding
Optical Power Meter Features
Our optical power meter has the following features that will assist you when testing. https://yamasakiot.com/wp-content/plugins/download-attachments/includes/download.php?id=1047
-Calibrated Wavelengths: 850, 1300, 1310, 1490, 1550 and 1625nm
-Tone Detect 270Hz, 330Hz 1KHz and 2KHz
-Universal FC, SC, ST connector included.
-LC adaptor available
-Ambient Light Sensor and Ultra-Bright Display
-Results in dBm, dB and nW
-Includes USB Cable and Software CD
-AC Adaptor
-Power Save Feature
Suggested documentation when testing
You should as a minimum record the following data to document the tests and keep copies for future reference: Things to include are
1. Date of the test
2. System being tested and identification
3. Operator
4. Test equipment used
5 Length of cable being tested
6. Reference method (1 or 3 jumper to ISO/IEC 14763-3)
7. # of splices
8. # of adapters
9. # of connectors
10. Test wavelength used
11. Test results
A loss budget should be calculated for each link based on the length of the link and the number of connections.
Knowing you loss budget confirms the equipment will operate over that link. The expected loss will be known to allow a pass/fail decision by the person doing the testing.
You should have the proper test equipment and also be familiar with its use.
Conclusion.
Testing should be conducted with every installation or restoration.
When done properly, optical power meter testing will give you the confidence that the network will operate within the established limits without any issues.
Consequently, this eliminates potential concerns. Subsequently, providing thorough documentation will prove beneficial for maintenance and troubleshooting in the years ahead.
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