EXFO iOLM User Manual
iOLM
intelligent Optical Link Mapper
User Guide
Copyright © 2011–2015 EXFO Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this
publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted
in any form, be it electronically, mechanically, or by any other means such
as photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written
permission of EXFO Inc. (EXFO).
Information provided by EXFO is believed to be accurate and reliable.
However, no responsibility is assumed by EXFO for its use nor for any
infringements of patents or other rights of third parties that may result from
its use. No license is granted by implication or otherwise under any patent
rights of EXFO.
EXFO’s Commerce And Government Entities (CAGE) code under the North
Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is 0L8C3.
The information contained in this publication is subject to change without
notice.
Trademarks
EXFO’s trademarks have been identified as such. However, the presence
or absence of such identification does not affect the legal status of any
trademark.
Units of Measurement
Units of measurement in this publication conform to SI standards and
practices.
Patents
Feature(s) of this product is/are protected by one or more of US patent
6,612,750; and US patent 8,576,389 and equivalent patents pending and/or
granted in other countries.
Version number: 9.0.1.1
ii iOLM
Contents
Contents
Certification Information ....................................................................................................... vi
1 Introducing the intelligent Optical Link Mapper ....................................... 1
Principles of Operation ...........................................................................................................5
Exporting Data to Other Formats ............................................................................................5
Performing Multimode Measurements ...................................................................................6
Launch, Receive, and Loop Fiber .............................................................................................7
Software Options ..................................................................................................................10
Conventions ..........................................................................................................................11
2 Safety Information ..................................................................................... 13
Laser Safety Information (Units Without a VFL) ....................................................................14
Laser Safety Information (Units With a VFL) ..........................................................................16
3 Getting Started with Your iOLM ................................................................ 17
Main Window .......................................................................................................................17
Status Bar .............................................................................................................................18
4 Preparing your iOLM for a Test ................................................................. 19
Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers ...............................................................................19
Installing the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI) .........................................................................21
5 Setting User Preferences ............................................................................ 23
Defining General Settings .....................................................................................................23
Defining Measurement Identification ...................................................................................26
Customizing the File Name ...................................................................................................28
Naming iOLM Files Automatically .........................................................................................33
Customizing the iOLM Report ...............................................................................................37
Customizing the Optical Power Meter ..................................................................................40
Configuring your iOLM .........................................................................................................42
6 Managing Test Configurations .................................................................. 45
Selecting a Test Configuration ..............................................................................................45
Impacts of Test Configurations .............................................................................................48
Creating a Test Configuration ...............................................................................................49
Modifying a Test Configuration ............................................................................................51
Importing or Exporting a Test Configuration ........................................................................81
intelligent Optical Link Mapper iii
Contents
7 Starting an Acquisition ...............................................................................87
Starting an iOLM Acquisition ................................................................................................87
Starting a Single-Wavelength Acquisition .............................................................................88
Starting a Multiple-Wavelength Acquisition ..........................................................................90
Stopping an Acquisition .......................................................................................................92
8 Understanding Diagnostics ........................................................................93
9 Using the Inline Power Meter (Optional on Some Models) ......................95
Understanding the Inline Power Meter .................................................................................95
Performing a Power Meter Acquisition .................................................................................97
Saving the Power Level .........................................................................................................98
iOLM Acquisition with Power Meter ...................................................................................100
10 Using the OTDR as a Source (Optional on Some Models) .......................103
11 Starting the OTDR Application .................................................................107
12 Managing Results .....................................................................................109
Link View ............................................................................................................................109
Viewing Element and Section Details ..................................................................................121
Managing Elements and Analyzing Links (Optional, iOLM EXpert and Loopback Modes) ...125
Measurement Information ..................................................................................................134
13 Managing Files ..........................................................................................137
Opening iOLM Files .............................................................................................................137
Saving iOLM Files ................................................................................................................139
Exporting OTDR Bellcore Files .............................................................................................142
Generating a Report ...........................................................................................................145
14 Maintenance ..............................................................................................149
Cleaning EUI Connectors ....................................................................................................149
Recalibrating the Unit .........................................................................................................152
Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only) ..................................................153
15 Troubleshooting ........................................................................................155
Viewing Online Documentation ..........................................................................................155
Contacting the Technical Support Group ............................................................................156
Viewing Information About the Product .............................................................................157
Transportation ....................................................................................................................158
iv iOLM
Contents
16 Warranty ................................................................................................... 159
General Information ...........................................................................................................159
Liability ...............................................................................................................................160
Exclusions ...........................................................................................................................161
Certification ........................................................................................................................161
Service and Repairs .............................................................................................................162
EXFO Service Centers Worldwide ........................................................................................163
A Technical Specifications ........................................................................... 165
FTB-720 ..............................................................................................................................165
FTB-720G ............................................................................................................................166
FTB-730 ..............................................................................................................................167
FTB-730G ............................................................................................................................168
FTB-7300E ..........................................................................................................................169
FTB-7400E ..........................................................................................................................170
MAX-715B ..........................................................................................................................171
MAX-720B ..........................................................................................................................172
MAX-730B ..........................................................................................................................173
Index .............................................................................................................. 175
intelligent Optical Link Mapper v
Certification Information
Certification Information
North America Regulatory Statement
This unit was certified by an agency approved in both Canada and the
United States of America. It has been evaluated according to applicable
North American approved standards for product safety for use in Canada
and the United States.
Electronic test and measurement equipment is exempt from FCC part 15,
subpart B compliance in the United States of America and from ICES-003
compliance in Canada. However, EXFO Inc. makes reasonable efforts to
ensure compliance to the applicable standards.
The limits set by these standards are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in
a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance
with the user guide, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely
to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to
correct the interference at his own expense.
Modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the
user's authority to operate the equipment.
European Community Declaration of Conformity
An electronic version of the declaration of conformity for your product is
available on our website at www.exfo.com. Refer to the product’s page on
the Web site for details.
vi iOLM
1 Introducing the intelligent
Optical Link Mapper
The intelligent Optical Link Mapper (iOLM) is an optimized application for
access/FTTx network characterization. Depending on the iOLM module
configuration, the application can be used before and after network
activation.
The iOLM module can be equipped optionally with an inline power meter.
The power meter is called inline because the acquisition is done using the
SM live port used for iOLM measurements. Optionally, you can measure the
power levels for two wavelengths in a single acquisition, if two
wavelengths are used for testing.
Note: Your screen display may differ slightly from the figures in this user
documentation depending on the platform you are using.
Note: Depending on the model and options you have purchased, some features
may not be available.
Note: In this documentation, the words “tap” and “double-tap” (related to the
use of a touchscreen) replace the words “click” and “double-click”.
intelligent Optical Link Mapper 1
Introducing the intelligent Optical Link Mapper
OTDR port (singlemode)
OTDR port (singlemode
live and On-line power
meter)
Active LED
(ON when laser is emitting)
FTB-720 / FTB-720G / FTB-720G+ for FTB-1
FTB-730 / FTB-730G / FTB-730G+ for FTB-1
OTDR port (singlemode)
OTDR port (multimode)
Active LED
(ON when laser is emitting)
OTDR port
(singlemode live)
2 iOLM
Introducing the intelligent Optical Link Mapper
Handle
Visual fault locator (VFL) port
(optional)
OTDR port (singlemode)
Singlemode and
singlemode live
models
OTDR port (for live-fiber testing)
LIVE
SM OTDR
FTB-7000
SM
SM
FTB-7000 Series for FTB-2, FTB-200V2 and FTB-500
intelligent Optical Link Mapper 3
Introducing the intelligent Optical Link Mapper
OTDR port (singlemode live)
OTDR port (singlemode)
Active LED
(on when laser is emitting)
MAX-700B Series
4 iOLM
Introducing the intelligent Optical Link Mapper
Principles of Operation
Principles of Operation
The iOLM application uses the hardware of an EXFO OTDR to perform
acquisitions and characterize the various elements detected on the probed
link. However, while a regular OTDR takes one averaged trace at a time,
with one given set of test parameters, the iOLM takes a series of
measurements and integrates them into a simple and intuitive Link View.
The test parameters for each sub-measurement are determined by smart
algorithms during the measurement. Just as each link is different, each
iOLM measurement is different, with its own set of test parameters
according to the link length, loss, and ORL. Test time varies depending on
the link tested, but is mostly influenced by total link loss. The application
uses information from all sub-measurements to enhance the
characterization of each element found on the link, yielding accurate and
complete results. Depending on the module configuration, you can
perform a single or multiple-wavelength acquisition. In the latter case,
results will be provided for each wavelength, and a global pass/fail status
for each element is displayed.
The application summarizes the results in a linear representation of the
link, displaying each element with its associated position, loss and
reflectance, as well as the element type.
Exporting Data to Other Formats
The iOLM application can generate report in various formats and allow
batch post-processing of the measurement. The test configuration files can
be created from FastReporter and imported on each test unit.
intelligent Optical Link Mapper 5
Introducing the intelligent Optical Link Mapper
Performing Multimode Measurements
Performing Multimode Measurements
If your module supports multimode measurements, it can test both
62.5 m and 50 m fibers. The internal multimode fiber for an EXFO OTDR
is 62.5 μm.
When a 62.5 μm fiber is connected, the loss at the connector can be
correctly characterized just like in the case of a singlemode fiber. It is
then simple to evaluate a pass/fail criterion in this case.
When a 50 μm fiber is connected, the loss at the connector depends
on many factors:
the connector loss itself
the 62.5 m to 50 μm core fiber difference
the RBS difference between 50 m and 62.5 μm fibers
The measured loss between the OTDR connector and the fiber is
typically around 3.3 dB.
With 50 μm fibers, since the connector loss measurement at the OTDR
is imprecise because of major other factors, the iOLM excludes the first
connector from the link rather than providing inaccurate information.
With a launch fiber, the connector at link start (connector A) is “On-Link”.
When characterizing a multimode link or a singlemode fiber, launch fibers
are recommended. In multimode, the launch and receive fibers must have
the same core size as the link under test. Using an unfitting launch or
receive fiber would lead to inaccurate results.
The use of an external EF-compliant device such as the SPSB-EF-C30 will
ensure a fast and easy way to get accurate loss measurements. For more
information about encircled flux compliance, refer to the encircled flux test
solution specification sheet.
6 iOLM
Introducing the intelligent Optical Link Mapper
Launch, Receive, and Loop Fiber
Launch, Receive, and Loop Fiber
Unlike a traditional OTDR, the iOLM requires only a short launch fiber
(>50 m) to benefit from all the advantages of this referencing method,
regardless of the link length and loss. A launch fiber longer than 200 m is
not recommended when testing PON links. Because the output port of an
OTDR may degrade its loss and ORL performances after multiple
connections, the use of a launch cable is always recommended.
The first element of the tested link is tagged with the letter (A) into the link
view. A launch cable allows you to properly characterize the first connector
of the fiber link under test (A) and exclude the OTDR connector's wear
from the link evaluation. A reasonable amount of degradation of the OTDR
connector is acceptable when using an APC interface; the ORL remains
low due to the angle polish, preventing poor near-end resolution. By using
a launch fiber, the OTDR connector loss is excluded from the
measurement. The iOLM evaluates the OTDR connector loss each time a
measurement is performed to inform you about the condition of the
connector. It is important to understand that excessive loss at this
connector will eventually degrade the measurement capabilities of the
instrument. In addition, using a launch cable will help protect your OTDR
connector by limiting the number of connections performed directly on
that connector. It is easier to repair or replace a launch cable than to
replace the OTDR connector.
The last element of the tested link is tagged with the letter (B) into the link
view. A receive fiber cable can be used at the end of the link opposite the
test module in order to characterize the last connector of the link (B) and
increase the precision of the total insertion loss result by comparing
differential level of two known fibers (to avoid errors due to different
backscatter coefficients of the fiber used in the link). If no receive cable is
used, the iOLM application will be able to measure the position and ORL of
this connector in unmatched condition, but not its loss. No pass/fail status
will be displayed for that connector. The required length of the receive
fiber will depend on the loss of the link under test. A higher loss requires a
longer pulse to reach the receive fiber level. Unlike the launch fiber, the
intelligent Optical Link Mapper 7
Introducing the intelligent Optical Link Mapper
Launch, Receive, and Loop Fiber
receive fiber has the same limitations than that of a traditional OTDR. Test
of a 1 km fiber span with less than 2 dB of loss will require only 100 m of
receive fiber. Testing a 23 dB PON link will require a receive fiber of 500 m
to 2 km, depending on the fiber length after each splitter.
The iOLM application allows you to manually set the lengths of both your
launch and receive cables. In addition, it is possible to automatically
measure the launch or receive cables. When carrying out the calibration,
the application will perform a fast measurement and evaluate length of the
fiber. For this reason, only the cable under test must be connected to the
module when performing a calibration.
If link elements are found on the fiber under calibration or if the OTDR
connector is defective, the calibration will fail and a warning is displayed to
explain the reason for the failure. A short patchcord (<5 m) is accepted
between the instrument and the fiber under calibration and will be
included in the calibrated length. If the calibration is successful, the launch
or receive fiber length will be updated in the Test Parameters tab.
When performing a measurement, the iOLM will try to match the defined
launch and receive fibers with elements found on the link to set the A and
B connector positions. If no events are found at specified distances
because of a “perfect” connection between link and launch or receive
fibers, the iOLM will insert an element at a specified position (with zero
loss and ORL).
8 iOLM
Introducing the intelligent Optical Link Mapper
Launch, Receive, and Loop Fiber
The loopback measurement is designed to test duplex cables.
In a loopback measurement, one end of the first fiber is connected to the
iOLM through a launch fiber, while the other end is connected to the
second fiber using a fiber called a loop. Usually, a receive fiber is used on
the proximal end of the second fiber. The loop fiber can be viewed as a
receive fiber for the first fiber (the one the iOLM is connected to) and a
launch fiber for the second fiber.
The loopback process performs one single acquisition for both fibers, then
automatically splits the result, providing independent measurements for
both fibers in the duplex cable.
The automatic split of the initial measurement can only be performed if the
length of the launch, loop and receive fibers are properly specified in the
application.
See Configuring your iOLM on page 42 for more details.
intelligent Optical Link Mapper 9
Introducing the intelligent Optical Link Mapper
Software Options
Software Options
Software options are offered with your unit.
The iOLM software option gives you access to the iOLM application.
The iCERT software option gives you access to the certification
configuration files, which give you a pass/fail status based on industry
standards. This pass/fail status is ensured by the fact that thresholds are
not editable.
The iEX (iOLM EXpert) software option activates edition of links and
custom elements, 2:N splitters, and link reanalysis.
The Loopback (LB) software option allows you to perform iOLM
loopback measurements. This type of measurement loops two fibers
together at one end to test both fibers at once.
The Source (SRC) software option allows you to use your iOLM as a
source. This option is already included on all platforms. However, on
MAX-700B platforms, the option is available for purchase.
10 iOLM
Introducing the intelligent Optical Link Mapper
Conventions
Before using the product described in this guide, you should understand
the following conventions:
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury. Do not proceed unless you
understand and meet the required conditions.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
may result in minor or moderate injury. Do not proceed unless you
understand and meet the required conditions.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
may result in component damage. Do not proceed unless you
understand and meet the required conditions.
Conventions
IMPORTANT
Refers to information about this product you should not overlook.
intelligent Optical Link Mapper 11
2 Safety Information
WARNING
Do not install or terminate fibers while a light source is active.
Never look directly into a live fiber and ensure that your eyes are
protected at all times.
WARNING
The use of controls, adjustments and procedures, namely for
operation and maintenance, other than those specified herein may
result in hazardous radiation exposure or impair the protection
provided by this unit.
IMPORTANT
When you see the following symbol on your unit , make sure
that you refer to the instructions provided in your user
documentation. Ensure that you understand and meet the required
conditions before using your product.
IMPORTANT
Other safety instructions relevant for your product are located
throughout this documentation, depending on the action to
perform. Make sure to read them carefully when they apply to your
situation.
intelligent Optical Link Mapper 13
Safety Information
Affixed to module’s side or back panel
Laser Safety Information (Units Without a VFL)
Laser Safety Information (Units Without a VFL)
Your instrument is a Class 1M laser product in compliance with standards
IEC 60825-1: 2007 and 21 CFR 1040.10, except for deviations pursuant to
Laser Notice No. 50, dated June 24, 2007. Invisible laser radiation may be
encountered at the output port.
Viewing the laser output with certain optical instruments (for
example, eye loupes, magnifiers, and microscopes) within a
distance of 100 mm may pose an eye hazard.
The following label(s) indicate that the product contains a Class 1M source:
WARNING
14 iOLM
Safety Information
Laser information of the VFL. Always refer to
the user guide of the MaxTester Series for
the exact information.
Laser information of the test instrument
MaxTester Series
The label is affixed to the back panel of the unit.
Laser Safety Information (Units Without a VFL)
intelligent Optical Link Mapper 15
Safety Information
Affixed to module’s or back side panel
Laser Safety Information (Units With a VFL)
Laser Safety Information (Units With a VFL)
Your instrument is a Class 3R laser product in compliance with standards
IEC 60825-1: 2007 and 21 CFR 1040.10, except for deviations pursuant to
Laser Notice No. 50, dated June 24, 2007. Laser radiation is emitted at the
output port. It is potentially harmful in direct intrabeam viewing.
The following label(s) indicate that the product contains a Class 3R source:
For more information on product safety and equipment ratings, refer to the
user documentation of your platform.
All modules power consumption is below 10 W.
16 iOLM
3 Getting Started with Your
View Pane
Status Bar
Button Bar,
including
shortcuts to
access the
Open, Save
and
Configuration
selection
menus.
Function
Ta bs
iOLM
Note: Please refer to your platform's or unit’s user guide for detailed information
regarding inserting and removing test modules, and starting applications.
Note: In the case of the FTB-700G Series, you can run only one application at a
time, either NetBlazer or the iOLM application. To start the iOLM
application, from Mini ToolBox, select the OTDR module, then tap the
button corresponding to the desired application. To start the NetBlazer
application, refer either to the Transport Application user guide or to the
Ethernet/Packet Sync/FC/Wireless user guide for more information.
Note: Some features for this application are enabled when you purchase the
iOLM EXpert, RT and source options. For details on how to activate an
option, refer to your platform’s or unit’s user guide.
Main Window
The main window allows you to start the acquisition and view
measurement results and values.
intelligent Optical Link Mapper 17
Getting Started with Your iOLM
Name of the current loaded iOLM file.
The loaded file name and the next file
name turns into a progress bar during
the acquisition.
Name of the
current
configuration file.
Status Bar
Status Bar
The status bar, located at the bottom of the main window, identifies the
selected configuration file name in the application, acquisition wavelength
(when an acquisition is in progress), and the acquisition progress bar of the
iOLM. It also displays the next file name according to the autonaming
scheme. For more information, see Naming iOLM Files Automatically on
page 33.
Note: When an acquisition is not in progress, the file name of the file currently
present in memory is displayed.
18 iOLM
4 Preparing your iOLM for a Test
Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers
IMPORTANT
To ensure maximum power and to avoid erroneous readings:
Always inspect fiber ends and make sure that they are clean as
explained below before inserting them into the port. EXFO is
not responsible for damage or errors caused by bad fiber
cleaning or handling.
Ensure that your patchcord has appropriate connectors. Joining
mismatched connectors will damage the ferrules.
To connect the fiber-optic cable to the port:
1. Inspect the fiber using a fiber inspection microscope. If the fiber is
clean, proceed to connecting it to the port. If the fiber is dirty, clean it as
explained below.
2. Clean the fiber ends as follows:
2a. Gently wipe the fiber end with a lint-free swab dipped in isopropyl
alcohol.
2b. Use compressed air to dry completely.
2c. Visually inspect the fiber end to ensure its cleanliness.
intelligent Optical Link Mapper 19
Preparing your iOLM for a Test
Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers
3. Carefully align the connector and port to prevent the fiber end from
touching the outside of the port or rubbing against other surfaces.
If your connector features a key, ensure that it is fully fitted into the
port’s corresponding notch.
4. Push the connector in so that the fiber-optic cable is firmly in place,
thus ensuring adequate contact.
If your connector features a screwsleeve, tighten the connector
enough to firmly maintain the fiber in place. Do not overtighten, as this
will damage the fiber and the port.
Note: If your fiber-optic cable is not properly aligned and/or connected, you will
notice heavy loss and reflection.
EXFO uses good quality connectors in compliance with EIA-455-21A
standards.
To keep connectors clean and in good condition, EXFO strongly
recommends inspecting them with a fiber inspection probe before
connecting them. Failure to do so will result in permanent damage to the
connectors and degradation in measurements.
20 iOLM
Preparing your iOLM for a Test
Green border
indicates APC
option
2 3 4
Installing the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI)
Installing the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI)
The EUI fixed baseplate is available for connectors with angled (APC)
polishing. A green border around the baseplate indicates that it is for
APC-type connectors.
IMPORTANT
EXFO strongly recommends to only use APC module connectors.
To install an EUI connector adapter onto the EUI baseplate:
1. Hold the EUI connector adapter so the dust cap opens downwards.
2. Close the dust cap in order to hold the connector adapter more firmly.
3. Insert the connector adapter into the baseplate.
4. While pushing firmly, turn the connector adapter clockwise on the
baseplate to lock it in place.
intelligent Optical Link Mapper 21
5 Setting User Preferences
The User Preferences window allows you to set general settings,
identification settings, and select the power meter mode.
Note: The preference settings are user specific.
Defining General Settings
The General tab allows you to enable/disable items such as sound, fiber
section information, file functionalities, whether you save a report upon
saving files and export the file to OTDR Bellcore (.sor) format, and set the
distance unit for the application.
To set general settings:
1. From the Main Menu, tap User Preferences.
intelligent Optical Link Mapper 23
Setting User Preferences
Defining General Settings
2. Select the General tab.
3. Under the General tab, configure the following settings:
File Functionalities: If enabled, any user interface control related
to file functionalities (for example, Default path, Export OTDR
bellcore file, Generate report on save, Open, Save, Filename, etc.)
will be visible on the screen.
Note: If the File Functionalities option is disabled, the application does not notify
you with the warning message when files are saved. When File
Functionalities is disabled, the Default folder, Export OTDR Bellcore
(.sor) file on save, and Generate Report options are also disabled.
File Save Path: Enter the location for saving the files. This path is
used to save the iOLM files and OTDR Bellcore (.sor) files after an
acquisition.
Note: The default path provided by the operating system is used to save the files
the first time you start an acquisition.
24 iOLM
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