EXFO MAX-700 User Manual

MAX-700

User Guide

Copyright © 2012 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.

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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

EXFO’s Universal Interface is protected by US patent 6,612,750.

Version number: 19.0.3

ii MAX-700

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MAX-700 iii

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iv MAX-700

Contents

Certification Information ....................................................................................................... xi

1 Introducing the MAX-700 ............................................................................. 1

Main Features .........................................................................................................................1

LED Indicators Description ......................................................................................................6

Function Buttons Description ..................................................................................................7

Trace Acquisition Modes .........................................................................................................7

Optional Software Package .....................................................................................................8

Data Post-Processing ..............................................................................................................8

OTDR Basic Principles ..............................................................................................................9

Power Sources ......................................................................................................................11

Conventions ..........................................................................................................................12

2 Safety Information ..................................................................................... 13

Laser Safety Information .......................................................................................................14

Electrical Safety Information .................................................................................................15

3 Getting Started with Your MAX-700 .......................................................... 17

Using the Supports ...............................................................................................................17

Securing Your Unit Using a Kensington Lock ........................................................................18

Installing a Keyboard, Mouse or Other USB Devices ..............................................................19

Using the On-Screen (Virtual) Keyboard ................................................................................22

Right-Clicking with the Touchscreen .....................................................................................23

Turning On or Off the Unit ....................................................................................................24

Installing or Upgrading the Applications ..............................................................................28

Activating Software Options .................................................................................................33

Starting Instrument Applications ..........................................................................................38

Timer ....................................................................................................................................39

4 Preparing Your MAX-700 for a Test ........................................................... 41

Installing the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI) .........................................................................41

Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers ...............................................................................42

Naming Trace Files Automatically .........................................................................................44

Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check ..................................................................48

Setting Macrobend Parameters .............................................................................................49

5 Testing Fibers in Auto Mode ...................................................................... 51

MAX-700 v

Contents

6 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode ..............................................................55

Setting the Autorange Acquisition Time ...............................................................................60

Setting the IOR, RBS Coefficient, and Helix Factor ................................................................61

Setting Distance Range, Pulse Width, and Acquisition Time .................................................63

Enabling the High-Resolution Feature ...................................................................................66

Enabling or Disabling Analysis After Acquisition ...................................................................68

Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds ..................................................................................................70

Setting a Default Span Start and Span End ...........................................................................75

7 Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode ...........................................................77

Acquiring Traces in Fault Finder Mode ..................................................................................77

Naming Fault Finder Files Automatically ...............................................................................80

Selecting the Default File Format for the Fault Finder Traces .................................................82

Enabling or Disabling the Confirmation of Fault Finder File Name ........................................84

Enabling or Disabling the Storage Feature ............................................................................86

Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check for Fault Finder .........................................87

Enabling or Disabling the Touchscreen Keyboard ..................................................................89

Setting Trace Display Parameters ..........................................................................................90

Selecting the Distance Units .................................................................................................92

8 Customizing the OTDR Application ............................................................95

Selecting the Default File Format ..........................................................................................95

Enabling or Disabling File Name Confirmation .....................................................................97

Selecting the Distance Units .................................................................................................99

Customizing the Acquisition Distance Range Values ...........................................................101

Customizing the Acquisition Time Values ...........................................................................103

Enabling or Disabling the Touchscreen Keyboard ................................................................105

Displaying or Hiding the Optional Features ........................................................................106

vi MAX-700

Contents

9 Analyzing Traces and Events ................................................................... 107

Graph View .........................................................................................................................108

Linear View .........................................................................................................................110

Summary Table ...................................................................................................................112

Events Tab ...........................................................................................................................114

Measure Tab .......................................................................................................................118

Trace Info. Tab ....................................................................................................................118

Displaying the Graph in Full Screen ....................................................................................119

Selecting the Default View ..................................................................................................121

Automatically Displaying the Event Table after Acquisitions ...............................................123

Automatically Zooming in on the Fiber Span ......................................................................124

Using Zoom Controls ..........................................................................................................125

Setting Trace Display Parameters ........................................................................................128

Customizing the Event Table ...............................................................................................130

Displaying or Hiding a Trace ...............................................................................................132

Clearing Traces from the Display .........................................................................................134

Viewing and Modifying Current Trace Settings ...................................................................135

Modifying Events ................................................................................................................140

Inserting Events ..................................................................................................................144

Deleting Events ...................................................................................................................146

Managing Comments .........................................................................................................148

Changing the Attenuation of Fiber Sections .......................................................................150

Setting the Analysis Detection Thresholds ..........................................................................152

Analyzing or Reanalyzing a Trace ........................................................................................155

Analyzing the Fiber on a Specific Fiber Span .......................................................................157

Enabling or Disabling the Detection of Reflective Ends of Fiber ..........................................158

Swapping Traces .................................................................................................................161

Opening Trace Files .............................................................................................................162

10 Analyzing the Results Manually .............................................................. 167

Selecting the Attenuation and Loss Values that Will Be Displayed ......................................167

Using Markers .....................................................................................................................169

Getting Event Distances and Relative Powers ......................................................................170

Getting Event Loss (Four-Point and Least-Square Approximation) ......................................171

Getting Attenuation (Two-Point and Least-Square Approximation) ....................................176

Getting Reflectance ............................................................................................................178

Getting Optical Return Loss (ORL) .......................................................................................179

11 Managing Trace Files from the OTDR Test Application .......................... 181

Saving a Trace in a Different Format ...................................................................................181

OTDR Trace File Compatibility .............................................................................................182

Copying, Moving, Renaming, or Deleting Trace Files ..........................................................184

MAX-700 vii

Contents

12 Creating and Generating Reports ............................................................185

Adding Information to the Test Results ...............................................................................185

Generating a Report ...........................................................................................................187

13 Using the OTDR as a Light Source ............................................................193

14 Setting Up Your Unit .................................................................................197

Adjusting Brightness ...........................................................................................................197

Adjusting Microphone and Headphones Volume ................................................................198

Recalibrating the Touchscreen ............................................................................................202

Enabling or Disabling the Touchscreen Right-Click Feature .................................................205

Customizing the On-Screen Keyboard ................................................................................208

Selecting the Startup Application .......................................................................................210

Configuring Network Printers .............................................................................................212

Selecting the Language of Operation .................................................................................215

Setting Date and Time Formats ...........................................................................................221

Adjusting the Date, Time and Time Zone ............................................................................224

Configuring the Power Management Options ....................................................................227

Configuring the Internet Options .......................................................................................231

Setting Other Parameters ....................................................................................................231

15 Working with Your Unit ............................................................................233

Printing Documents ............................................................................................................233

Viewing PDF Files ................................................................................................................236

Taking Screen Captures ......................................................................................................237

Setting Storage Parameters for Screen Captures ................................................................240

Reading Audio and Video Files ...........................................................................................244

Installing Adobe Flash Player on Your Unit ..........................................................................246

Browsing the Web ..............................................................................................................248

Accessing Other Tools .........................................................................................................249

16 Using the Optional Built-In Power Meter and VFL ..................................251

17 Inspecting Fibers with a Probe ................................................................253

18 Managing Data .........................................................................................255

Transferring Data via Bluetooth ..........................................................................................258

Connecting to a Wireless Network ......................................................................................266

Using the USB to RS-232 Adapter .......................................................................................271

Enabling or Disabling the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Devices .......................................................276

Transferring Files with the USB Data Mover Application .....................................................278

Using Your Unit as an FTP Server ........................................................................................284

viii MAX-700

Contents

19 Accessing Your Unit Remotely ................................................................. 287

Working With TightVNC .....................................................................................................288

Configuring TightVNC Server to Start Automatically ...........................................................294

Adding Exceptions to the Firewall ......................................................................................296

20 Maintenance ............................................................................................. 299

Cleaning EUI Connectors ....................................................................................................300

Cleaning Detector Ports ......................................................................................................302

Cleaning the Touchscreen of Your MAX-700 Unit ................................................................303

Recharging the Main Battery ..............................................................................................303

Replacing Batteries .............................................................................................................305

Verifying Your MAX-700 ......................................................................................................309

Recalibrating the Unit .........................................................................................................317

Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only) ..................................................317

21 Troubleshooting ....................................................................................... 319

Solving Common Problems .................................................................................................319

Restoring Your Unit to Normal Operation ...........................................................................324

Contacting the Technical Support Group ............................................................................333

Transportation ....................................................................................................................334

22 Warranty ................................................................................................... 335

General Information ...........................................................................................................335

Liability ...............................................................................................................................336

Exclusions ...........................................................................................................................336

Certification ........................................................................................................................336

Service and Repairs .............................................................................................................337

EXFO Service Centers Worldwide ........................................................................................338

A Technical Specifications ........................................................................... 339

MAX-700 ix

Contents

B Description of Event Types ......................................................................341

Span Start ..........................................................................................................................342

Span End ...........................................................................................................................342

Short Fibers .......................................................................................................................342

Continuous Fiber ...............................................................................................................343

End of Analysis ..................................................................................................................344

Non-Reflective Event ..........................................................................................................345

Reflective Event .................................................................................................................346

Positive Event .....................................................................................................................347

Launch Level ......................................................................................................................348

Fiber Section ......................................................................................................................349

Merged Event ....................................................................................................................350

Echo ..................................................................................................................................356

Reflective Event (Possible Echo) .........................................................................................357

Index ...............................................................................................................359

x MAX-700

Certification Information

North America Regulatory Statement on Product Safety

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.

MAX-700 xi

Certification Information

Page 1 of 1

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Application of Council Directive(s): 2006/95/EC – The Low Voltage Directive

2004/108/EC – The EMC Directive

93/68/EEC – CE Marking

And their amendments

Manufacturer’s Name and Address:

EXFO Inc. EXFO Europe

400 Godin Avenue Omega Enterprise Park, Electron Way Quebec City, Quebec Chandlers Ford, Hampshire G1M 2K2 CANADA SO53 4SE ENGLAND Tel.: +1 418 683-0211 Tel.: +44 2380 246810

Equipment Type/Environment: Test & Measurement / Industrial Trade Name/Model No.: (Dedicated LAN/WAN/ACCESS/PON OTDRs) / MAX-700 SERIES

Standard(s) to which Conformity is declared:

EN 61010-1:2001 Edition 2.0

Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use

– Part 1: General requirements

EN 61326-1:2006

Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use – EMC requirements

– Part 1: General requirements

EN 60825-1:2007 Edition 2.0

Safety of laser products – Part 1: Equipment classification and requirements

I, the undersigned, hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the above Directive and Standards.

Manufacturer:

Stephen Bull, E. Eng Vice-President Research and Development

400 Godin Avenue, Quebec City, Quebec G1M 2K2 CANADA April 03, 2012

European Community Declaration of Conformity

xii MAX-700

1 Introducing the MAX-700

The MAX-700 allows you to characterize a fiber-optic span, usually optical fiber sections joined by splices and connectors. The optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) provides an inside view of the fiber, and can calculate fiber length, attenuation, breaks, total return loss, and splice, connector and total losses.

Note: In this documentation, the words “tap” and “double-tap” (related to the

use of a touchscreen) replace the words “click” and “double-click”.

Main Features

Your MAX-700 includes the following:

 Multitasking possibilities

 Seven-inch color touchscreen (LCD and touchscreen optimized for

outdoor use available as an option)

 Two USB 2.0 ports (host)

 Ethernet port (10/100/1000 Base-T)

 Optional internal Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices

 Windows Embedded Standard operating system

 Fiber inspection probe port

 Optional built-in power meter and VFL

 Remote access to your unit (via TightVNC)

 Direct Web access from your unit

 Possibility to take screen captures

 PDF file generator and viewer available from your unit

 Easy transfer of files and folders to a USB storage device

 Easy updates for applications via Update Manager

 Impressive dynamic range with short dead zones

MAX-700 1

Introducing the MAX-700

Battery LED

Touchscreen

Front

On/Off button/Power LEDFunction buttons

Main Features

 Possible to perform quick acquisitions with low noise levels to enable

accurate low-loss splice location.

 Possible to acquire OTDR traces made of up to 256 000 points that

provide a sampling resolution as fine as 4 cm.

 Possible to use the OTDR port as a light source.

2 MAX-700

Introducing the MAX-700

Battery compartment

Support Support

Back

Main Features

MAX-700 3

Introducing the MAX-700

USB host ports

AC adapter/charger

connector

Fiber inspection probe port

RJ-45 port

Headset/microphone port

Built-in power meter (optional)

VFL (optional)

Top

Stylus

Internal Wi-Fi/Bluetooth devices (optional; sticker indicates that devices are present)

OTDR instrument

(see hereafter for details)

Main Features

4 MAX-700

Introducing the MAX-700

MAX-710

OTDR port (singlemode)

Active LED

(on when laser is emitting)

OTDR Instrument

OTDR port (singlemode live)

MAX-730

OTDR port (singlemode)

Active LED

(on when laser is emitting)

Main Features

MAX-700 5

Introducing the MAX-700

LED Indicators Description

There are two LED indicators located on the front panel of your unit, providing you with information about the power and battery statuses.

LED Status Meaning

Green Unit is on.

Green, blinking Unit is in Standby mode.

Off Unit is off or in Hibernation mode.

Green Battery is fully charged.

Green, blinking Battery is charging.

Yellow, blinking Unit is not powered by AC and battery is low.

Red No battery in the unit or battery error.

Off Unit is off or unit is not powered by AC and battery

level is above the “low-battery threshold”.

6 MAX-700

Introducing the MAX-700

Function Buttons Description

Your unit is equipped with function buttons which give you access to various tools at all times.

The table below shows an overview of their purpose.

Button Meaning

Adjusts screen brightness (5 levels).

 Displays the on-screen keyboard

 Takes a screen capture (button held down for a few

seconds)

Enables you to switch from one task to another.

Turns your unit on and off.

For more information on the various ways to turn off your unit, see Turning On or Off the Unit on page 24.

Trace Acquisition Modes

The OTDR application provides the following trace acquisition modes:

 Auto: Automatically calculates fiber length, sets acquisition

parameters, acquires traces, and displays event tables and acquired traces.

 Advanced: Offers all the tools needed to perform integral OTDR tests

and measurements and gives you control over all test parameters.

 Fault Finder: Rapidly locates fiber ends and displays the length of the

fiber under test. This allows you to perform quick tests without having to set all the acquisition parameters.

MAX-700 7

Introducing the MAX-700

Optional Software Package

An optional software package is offered with the application.

With the optional Auto Diagnostic (AD) software package you can:

 Have access to the “linear view”, which displays the events

sequentially, from left to right.

 Find macrobends and view the related information.

 View the summary table, which gives, for each wavelength, the global

status of the results, the span loss and span ORL values.

 Test in Fault Finder mode, to rapidly locate fiber ends.

Data Post-Processing

To view and analyze traces without the MAX-700 use a computer onto which FastReporter is already installed.

8 MAX-700

Introducing the MAX-700

Distance

c n

---

=

OTDR Basic Principles

An OTDR sends short pulses of light into a fiber. Light scattering occurs in the fiber due to discontinuities such as connectors, splices, bends, and faults. An OTDR then detects and analyzes the backscattered signals. The signal strength is measured for specific intervals of time and is used to characterize events.

The OTDR calculates distances as follows:

where

c = speed of light in a vacuum (2.998 x 10

t = time delay from the launch of the pulse to the reception of the

pulse

n = index of refraction of the fiber under test (as specified by the

manufacturer)

m/s)

MAX-700 9

Introducing the MAX-700

Microprocessor

Pulse generator

Avalanche

photodetector (APD)

Display

Reflections come back to the OTDR

Set of

instructions

Light pulses

Analog-to-digital

converter (A/D)

Returned signal

Analyzed signal

Laser diode

Optical coupler

OTDR

port

Fiber

OTDR Basic Principles

An OTDR uses the effects of Rayleigh scattering and Fresnel reflection to measure the fiber’s condition, but the Fresnel reflection is tens of thousands of times greater in power level than the backscatter.

 Rayleigh scattering occurs when a pulse travels down the fiber and

small variations in the material, such as variations and discontinuities in the index of refraction, cause light to be scattered in all directions. However, the phenomenon of small amounts of light being reflected directly back toward the transmitter is called backscattering.

 Fresnel reflections occur when the light traveling down the fiber

encounters abrupt changes in material density that may occur at connections or breaks where an air gap exists. A very large quantity of light is reflected, as compared with the Rayleigh scattering. The strength of the reflection depends on the degree of change in the index of refraction.

When the full trace is displayed, each point represents an average of many sampling points. You will have to zoom to see each point.

10 MAX-700

Introducing the MAX-700

Power Sources

Your unit operates with the following power sources:

 AC adapter/charger (connected to standard power outlet—indoor use

only). Compatible car outlet adapter available upon request.

 One lithium-ion rechargeable battery (automatically takes over if you

disconnect the AC adapter/charger).

Note: When it is connected with the AC adapter/charger, the unit will function

even if the battery is not present.

 Possible to switch from AC adapter/charger to battery power or

vice versa without affecting operation.

 The battery recharges automatically when the AC adapter/charger

is connected.

 Rechargeable battery (for clock). This battery can keep the date and

time for weeks even if AC power and the lithium-ion battery (main battery) are not connected.

MAX-700 11

Introducing the MAX-700

Conventions

Before using the product described in this guide, you should understand the following conventions:

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.

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.

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.

WARNING

CAUTION

IMPORTANT

Refers to information about this product you should not overlook.

12 MAX-700

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 other than those specified herein may result in exposure to hazardous situations 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.

MAX-700 13

Safety Information

Affixed to bottom panel of unit

Affixed to side panel of unit

Laser Safety Information

Units with Built-In VFL

Your instrument is a Class 3R laser product in compliance with standards IEC 60825-1 and 21 CFR 1040.10. It is potentially harmful in direct intrabeam viewing.

The following label(s) indicate that the product contains a Class 3R source:

Units without VFL

Your instrument is a Class 1M laser product in compliance with standards IEC 60825-1 and 21 CFR 1040.10. Invisible laser radiation may be encountered at the output port.

The product is safe under reasonably foreseeable conditions of operation but it may be hazardous if you use optics within a diverging or collimated beam. Do not view directly with optical instruments.

The following label(s) indicate that the product contains a Class 1M source:

14 MAX-700

Safety Information

Electrical Safety Information

If you need to ensure that the unit is completely turned off, disconnect the power cable and remove the batteries.

WARNING

 Use the external power supply indoors only.Position the unit so

that the air can circulate freely around it.

 Operation of any electrical instrument around flammable gases

or fumes constitutes a major safety hazard.

 To avoid electrical shock, do not operate the unit if any part of

the outer surface (covers, panels, etc.) is damaged.

 Only authorized personnel should carry out adjustments,

maintenance or repair of opened units under voltage. A person qualified in first aid must also be present. Do not replace any components while power cable and battery are connected.

 Capacitors inside the unit may be charged even if the unit has

been disconnected from its electrical supply.

 Use only the AC adapter/charger provided by EXFO with your

unit.

MAX-700 15

Safety Information

Electrical Safety Information

Tem pe ra tu re

 Operation

 Storage

Relative humidity

 unit

 AC adapter

Equipment Ratings

 0 °C to 50 °C (32 °F to 122 °F)

 -40 °C to 70 °C (-40 °F to 158 °F)

  95 % non-condensing

 0 % to 80 % non-condensing

Maximum operation

5000 m (16405 ft)

altitude

Pollution degree 2 (when plugged to AC mains)

3 (when operated from batteries)

Overvoltage category II

Input power

 unit

 AC adapter

a. Measured in 0 °C to 31 °C (32 °F to 87.8 °F) range, decreasing linearly to 50 % at 40 °C (104 °F).

b. For indoor use only.

c. Equipment is normally protected against exposure to direct sunlight, precipitations and full wind

pressure.

d. Not exceeding ± 10 % of the nominal voltage.

 24 V; 3.75 A

 100 - 240 V; 50/60 Hz; 1.6 A

16 MAX-700

3 Getting Started with Your

MAX-700

Using the Supports

Your unit has been designed to stand either vertically (with the screen facing you), or at an angle, using the two supports.

Note: The supports ensure optimum stability to the unit during your tests.

To change the orientation of the unit using the supports:

Pull out the two supports.

MAX-700 17

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Securing Your Unit Using a Kensington Lock

Your unit is equipped with a security slot to which you can connect an optional Kensington lock (security cable). You can secure your unit with this lock to help prevent theft.

To secure your unit:

Connect your lock to the security slot located on the side of your unit.

18 MAX-700

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Installing a Keyboard, Mouse or Other USB Devices

Your unit supports many USB devices. The table below lists the supported USB devices.

Device Details

Memory key For data transfer between your unit and a computer

when you do not have access to a network. If you need information on how to transfer data using a memory key, see Managing Data on page 255.

Keyboard When you are required to enter alphanumeric data,

an on-screen (virtual) keyboard is displayed. However, if you prefer, you can use a hardware keyboard.

Note: Even if a keyboard is connected, the

on-screen keyboard will still be displayed when you work in the MAX-700 software.

Mouse If your prefer to use a mouse instead of the

touchscreen, you can install one.

MAX-700 19

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Installing a Keyboard, Mouse or Other USB Devices

Device Details

Composite device You can use composite devices, that is devices that

input information to your unit using more than one mean (for example, combinations of keyboard and mouse).

Hub This device will be particularly useful to you if you

need extra USB ports.

USB to RS-232 adapter (purchased from EXFO)

You can connect several devices at the same time.

To be able to transfer data between your unit and a device only equipped with RS-232 (serial) ports. For more information, see Using the USB to RS-232 Adapter on page 271.

IMPORTANT

Your unit does not support USB printers. If you want to print documents, you must use PDFCreator or a network printer (see Printing Documents on page 233), or transfer your files to a computer (see Managing Data on page 255) that has access to a network printer.

20 MAX-700

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Installing a Keyboard, Mouse or Other USB Devices

To install a USB device on your unit:

Connect the USB device to any of the USB ports (located on top of the unit).

Note: It is not necessary to turn off the unit before connecting the USB device. The

software will automatically detect its presence.

Your device is automatically recognized and immediately usable.

MAX-700 21

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Using the On-Screen (Virtual) Keyboard

Your unit is equipped with an on-screen keyboard that supports multilingual features. This keyboard functions according to the keyboard settings of Windows.

To use the on-screen keyboard:

1. From the unit's front panel, press the button.

2. Select the location where you want to enter text.

3. Enter the data as required.

4. Exit the location when you have finished entering data.

22 MAX-700

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Right-Clicking with the Touchscreen

If you are used to work with a mouse, you may find it useful to be able to perform a right-click on your touchscreen.

To right-click with the touchscreen:

From the location where you want to right-click, using the stylus or any blunt pointing device, press the screen for a few seconds until the shortcut menu appears.

If you want to hide the shortcut menu without performing any action, simply tap anywhere outside the menu.

MAX-700 23

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Turning On or Off the Unit

There are several ways to turn off the unit, including the following:

 Standby: keeps the unit’s status information in memory (RAM). The

next time you turn your unit on, you will quickly return to your work environment (running applications will still be running).This mode will take more battery power while the unit is off.

 Shutdown: completely cuts power to the test modules and platform;

the unit will perform a complete restart routine the next time you use it. You should perform a shutdown if you do not intend to use your unit for a week or more.

After a shutdown, the unit will start in the MAX-700 software or in the application you defined as the startup application.

Note: As it is the case for many computers, pressing and holding down the power

button for more than 10 seconds will perform a power down reset on the unit.

By default, your unit will display the standard shutdown window from which you can select the desired shutdown mode. However, you can configure your unit to perform a different action when the power button is pressed.

You can also configure your unit to automatically restart when AC power comes back after the unit has turned off (emergency shutdown or standby modes) when battery level is too low.

24 MAX-700

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Turning On or Off the Unit

To turn on the unit:

Press the On/Off button.

To turn off the unit:

1. Press the On/Off button.

On the Windows taskbar, tap Start.

This will display the standard shutdown window, from which you have a choice of actions or shutdown modes.

2. Select Shutdown.

To define the behavior of the power button:

1. From the Main Menu, tap Setup.Double-tap Power Options.

2. Select the Advanced tab.

MAX-700 25

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Turning On or Off the Unit

3. From the When I press the power button on my computer list, select the desired behavior (Ask me what to do option is selected by default).

4. Ta p Apply to confirm the changes, and then OK to return to Control Panel.

26 MAX-700

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Turning On or Off the Unit

To configure your unit to automatically restart after AC power comes back:

1. From the Main Menu, tap System Settings.

2. From the System Settings window, tap Startup Applications.

3. Select the Power on the unit when AC outlet is connected or after

power outage box to enable the corresponding option.

Clear the box if you prefer that your unit does not restart automatically after AC power comes back.

4. Tap to confirm the changes and return to the main window.

MAX-700 27

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Installing or Upgrading the Applications

All the necessary applications have been preinstalled and configured at the factory. However, you may have to upgrade some applications when new versions become available or to reinstall them.

From the DVD that came with your unit, you can create an installation USB key in case you ever need to reinstall the MAX-700 software (the software that comes with your unit) and the instrument applications as well as Update Manager. All the necessary files will be copied to the USB key.

When updates are available for an application, you will need to download them from Internet, either directly on your unit or on a computer. In the latter case, you will need to transfer the update files to your unit (see Managing Data on page 255). The update files must be copied to the location that has been specified for the deployment packages in Update Manager.

If you ever need to reinstall Update Manager on your unit, ensure that:

IMPORTANT

 The installation files for Update Manager remain on your unit.

Otherwise, it will not be possible to install new versions of this application later.

 You choose the folder containing the Update Manager

installation files carefully. If you move or rename this folder, you will have to manually browse for the modified folder when you want to install new versions of this application.

28 MAX-700

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Installing or Upgrading the Applications

For the creation of an installation USB key, you will need:

 the installation DVD

 a computer equipped with a USB port; Windows must be installed on

the computer

 a USB memory key

For the upgrades, you will need:

 a MAX-700 unit

 a computer equipped with a USB port; Windows must be installed on

the computer

 a USB memory key

Note: For the upgrades, the computer and USB key are only necessary if you do

not wish to download the files directly on your unit.

Note: For more information on the installation, refer to the Update Manager

online help.

MAX-700 29

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Installing or Upgrading the Applications

To update or reinstall Update Manager:

1. If necessary, retrieve the desired installation files from the Internet.

If you do not intend to download files directly on your unit, connect a USB memory key to one of the USB ports of the computer and copy the installation files to this USB key.

2. If it is not already done, turn on your unit.

3. Exit the MAX-700 software and the OTDR application.

4. If you want to install Update Manager using the USB key, disconnect it

from the computer and connect it to one of the USB ports of your unit.

5. On your unit, create a folder on the Windows desktop.

6. Copy the installation files (from the USB key) to the newly created

folder.

7. From the newly created folder, tap the Setup.exe file to start the installation.

8. Follow the on-screen instructions.

9. When the installation is complete, simply disconnect the USB memory

key.

30 MAX-700

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Installing or Upgrading the Applications

To install or upgrade the applications:

1. If necessary, retrieve the desired installation files from the Internet.

If you do not intend to download files directly on your unit, connect a USB memory key to one of the USB ports of the computer and copy the installation files to this USB key.

2. If it is not already done, turn on your unit. If necessary, exit the OTDR application.

3. If you want to install or update applications using the USB key, disconnect it from the computer and connect it to one of the USB ports of your unit.

4. Copy the installation files (from the USB key) to the folder containing the update and installation packages on your unit. By default, Update Manager will search for files at the root of the USB key. For more information, refer to the Update Manager online help.

5. From the MAX-700 software, on your unit, select the Utilities tab.

6. Ta p Update Manager to start the corresponding application. For more

information on how to install or upgrade applications, refer to the Update Manager online help.

7. When installation is complete, simply disconnect the USB memory key.

MAX-700 31

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Installing or Upgrading the Applications

To create an installation USB key:

1. Turn on the computer and insert the installation DVD in the CD/DVD

drive.

2. Connect a USB memory key to one of the USB ports of the computer.

3. From the Welcome window on the installation DVD, click Installation

Files and Tools.

4. Select the MAX-700 Installation Files check box and click Next.

5. Follow the on-screen instructions. All the necessary components will

be copied to your USB key.

6. When the operation is complete, click Close, and then Exit to close the

installation DVD window.

7. Disconnect the USB memory key from the computer.

Your new installation USB key is now ready.

32 MAX-700

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Activating Software Options

The software options purchased at the same time as your unit have been activated for you already. However, if you purchase options afterwards, you will have to activate them yourself.

Before being able to activate options, you need to contact EXFO with the following information:

 Purchase order number of the newly purchased options

 Instrument or unit (platform) serial number (depending on whether

the software options were purchased for the OTDR or the unit itself)

 Customer's name

 Customer’s company name

 Customer’s phone number

 Customer’s e-mail address

 Instrument or unit on which the option will be installed

You will receive a single key (.key) file with which you will be able to unlock all the new options that you have purchased.

MAX-700 33

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Activating Software Options

To activate the options for your unit:

1. Connect a USB memory key to one of the USB ports of your computer.

2. Copy the key file to the USB memory key.

3. Disconnect the USB key from the computer and connect it to your unit.

4. From the MAX-700, select the Utilities tab, then tap Options

Activation.

34 MAX-700

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Activating Software Options

5. In the Platform Options tab, use the Browse button to locate the key file that you want to use.

6. Press Activate.

The option indicator will turn into a green check mark to confirm that the option is now active.

7. Press OK to close the Option Activation window.

Note: At this point, if you have used a USB key to copy your key file, you can

remove it as it is not required to use your new options.

MAX-700 35

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Activating Software Options

To activate software options for your module:

1. Connect a USB memory key to one of the USB ports of your computer.

2. Copy the key file to the USB memory key.

3. Disconnect the USB key from the computer and connect it to your unit.

4. From the MAX-700, select the Utilities tab, then tap Options

Activation.

36 MAX-700

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Activating Software Options

5. In the Module Options tab, use the Browse button to locate the key file that you want to use.

6. Press Activate.

The option indicator will turn into a green check mark to confirm that the option is now active.

Note: You can see the supported options for the module in the Options list.

7. Press OK to close the Option Activation window.

Note: At this point, if you have used a USB key to copy your key file, you can

remove it as it is not required to use your new options.

MAX-700 37

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Applications

related directly to

the OTDR

Starting Instrument Applications

Your OTDR can be configured and controlled from its dedicated application in the MAX-700 software.

To start an application:

At the bottom of the main window, press the button corresponding to the desired application.

38 MAX-700

Getting Started with Your MAX-700

Data

display

Function

Ta bs

Button bar

Timer

To start the Power Meter or Probe application:

From Main Menu, press Power Meter or Probe.

The main window (shown below) contains all the commands required to control the OTDR instrument:

Note: Due to screen resolution, the appearance of your OTDR application may

vary slightly from the illustrations presented in this user guide.

Timer

Once the acquisition has begun, a timer is displayed on the right-hand side of the screen, indicating the remaining time until the next acquisition.

MAX-700 39

4 Preparing Your MAX-700 for a

Bare metal

(or blue border)

indicates UPC

option

Green border

indicates APC

option

2 3 4

Test

Installing the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI)

The EUI fixed baseplate is available for connectors with angled (APC) or non-angled (UPC) polishing. A green border around the baseplate indicates that it is for APC-type 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.

MAX-700 41

Preparing Your MAX-700 for a Test

Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers

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:

IMPORTANT

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.

42 MAX-700

Preparing Your MAX-700 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.

MAX-700 43

Preparing Your MAX-700 for a Test

Naming Trace Files Automatically

Each time you start an acquisition, the application suggests a file name based on autonaming settings. This file name appears on the upper part of the graph and the linear view.

The file name is made of a static part (alphanumeric) and a variable part (numeric) that will be incremented or decremented, according to your selection, as follows:

If you choose incrementation... If you choose decrementation...

Variable part increases until it reaches the highest possible value with the selected number of digits (for example, 99 for 2 digits), then restarts at 0.

After saving a result, the unit prepares the next file name by incrementing (or decrementing) the suffix.

Note: If you choose not to save a particular trace file, the suggested file name will

remain available for the next trace you acquire.

If you deactivate the automatic file naming function, the application will prompt you to specify a file name. The default file name is Unnamed.trc.

By default, traces are saved in native (.trc) format, but you can configure your unit to save them in Bellcore (.sor) format (see Selecting the Default File Format on page 95).

Note: If you select the Bellcore (.sor) format, the unit will create one file per

wavelength (for example, TRACE001_1310.sor and TRACE001_1550.sor, if you included both 1310 nm and 1550 nm in your test). The native format contains all wavelengths in a single file.

Variable part decreases until it reaches 0, then restarts at the highest possible value with the selected number of digits (for example, 99 for 2 digits).

44 MAX-700

Preparing Your MAX-700 for a Test

To configure the automatic file naming:

1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup.

2. Select the Acquisition tab.

3. Press Default Trace Information.

Naming Trace Files Automatically

MAX-700 45

Preparing Your MAX-700 for a Test

Number of digits composing the variable part

Value at which the autonumbering sequence starts

The variable part will

increase or decrease

depending on your

choice

Naming Trace Files Automatically

4. Fill out the required information in the corresponding boxes and select the direction for your trace files.

5. Press the button appearing next to the Fiber ID box to change the contents of the fiber identification.

6. Change the criteria as needed, then press OK to confirm your new settings and return to the Default Trace Information window.

46 MAX-700

Preparing Your MAX-700 for a Test

This preview is

updated

automatically as you

make your selections

Items that can be

included in the file

name

To select the separator in the automatic numbering section

To add personalized information not included in the filename criteria

To modify the order of appearance of the selected components in the file name

Naming Trace Files Automatically

7. Press File Autonaming to set up the trace file name options.

8. In the File Name window, select the desired components to include in

the file name. You can change the order of apparition with the up and down arrow buttons.

MAX-700 47

9. Press OK to confirm your new settings.

Preparing Your MAX-700 for a Test

Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check

Note: This function is available in all OTDR modes. However, the first connector

check parameter used in Fault Finder mode is independent from the one used in the other OTDR modes (Auto and Advanced).

The first connector check feature is used to verify that the fibers are properly connected to the OTDR. It verifies the injection level and displays a message when an unusually high loss occurs at the first connection, which could indicate that no fiber is connected to the OTDR port. By default, this feature is not enabled.

Note: The first connector check is only performed when you test at singlemode

wavelengths.

To enable or disable the first connector check:

1. From the Main Menu, press OTDR Setup then press the General tab.

2. To enable the first connector check, select the First connector check

box.

To disable it, clear the box.

48 MAX-700

Preparing Your MAX-700 for a Test

Setting Macrobend Parameters

Note: This function is available with the Auto Diagnostic (AD) optional software

package only.

Note: This function is available both in Advanced and Auto modes.

Your unit can locate macrobends by comparing the loss values measured at a certain location, for a certain wavelength (for example, 1310 nm) with the loss values measured at the corresponding location, but for a greater wavelength (for example, 1550 nm).

The unit will identify a macrobend when comparing two loss values if:

 Of the two loss values, the greater loss occurred at the greater

wavelength.

AND

 The difference between the two loss values exceeds the defined delta

loss value. The default delta loss value is 0.5 dB (which is suitable for most fibers), but you can modify it.

You can also disable macrobend detection.

Note: Macrobend detection is only possible with singlemode wavelengths.

Filtered wavelengths or wavelengths of dedicated OTDR ports are not available for macrobend detection.

For information on how the information about macrobends is available after an acquisition, see Linear View on page 110 and Summary Table on page 112.

MAX-700 49

Preparing Your MAX-700 for a Test

Setting Macrobend Parameters

To set macrobend parameters:

1. From the Main Menu, press OTDR Setup then select the General tab.

2. To enable the macrobend detection, select the Show macrobend

check box.

To disable it, clear the check box.

3. If necessary, set the delta value as follows:

3a. From the Wavelengths list, select the pair of wavelengths for

which you want to define the delta value.

Only the combinations of wavelengths your module can support will be available.

For more significant results, EXFO recommends to always select the combination of wavelengths including the smallest possible wavelength and the greatest wavelength (for example, if your module supports 1310 nm, 1550 nm, and 1625 nm, you would select the 1310 nm/1625 nm combination).

3b. In the Delta (loss) box, enter the desired value.

3c. Repeat steps 3a and 3b for all combinations of wavelengths.

To revert to default settings:

1. Press Default.

2. When the application prompts you, answer Yes if you want to apply the

settings to all combinations of wavelengths.

50 MAX-700

5 Testing Fibers in Auto Mode

Auto mode automatically evaluates fiber length, sets acquisition parameters, acquires traces, and displays event tables and acquired traces.

In Auto mode, you can set the following parameters directly:

 Test w avel e ngth s (all selected by default)

 Fiber type (singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode) for models

supporting these fiber types

 Autorange acquisition time

 IOR (group index), RBS coefficient and helix factor

For all other parameters, the application uses those defined in Advanced mode, except that analysis is always performed after acquisitions.

If you ever need to modify other parameters, go to Advanced mode (see

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode on page 55 and Preparing Your MAX-700 for a Test on page 41).

In Auto mode, the application will automatically evaluate the best settings according to the fiber link currently connected to the unit (in less than 5 seconds). If you interrupt it, no data will be displayed.

Fiber characteristics are evaluated only once per session. Other fibers you connect to, within the same cable, will be tested with the same settings. When you start testing another link, you can reset these parameters.

Once this evaluation is complete, the application starts acquiring the trace. The trace display is continually updated.

Note: You can interrupt the acquisition at any time. The application will display

the information acquired to that point.

MAX-700 51

Testing Fibers in Auto Mode

Event

pane

Tra ce

display

Once the acquisition is complete or interrupted, the analysis starts for acquisitions of 5 seconds or more.

After analysis, the trace is displayed and events appear in the events table.

The application will also display status messages if you have selected to display pass/fail messages (see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 70).

You can save the trace after analysis. If former results have not been saved yet, the application prompts you to save them before starting a new acquisition.

52 MAX-700

Testing Fibers in Auto Mode

To acquire traces in Auto mode:

1. Clean the connectors properly.

2. Connect a fiber to the OTDR port.

If your unit is equipped with two OTDR ports, ensure that you connect the fiber to the appropriate port (singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode), depending on the wavelength you intend to use.

CAUTION

Never connect a live fiber to the OTDR port without a proper setup. Any incoming optical power ranging from –65 dBm to –40 dBm will affect the OTDR acquisition. The way the acquisition will be affected depends on the selected pulse width. Any incoming signal greater than 10 dBm could damage your MAX-700 permanently. For live-fiber testing, refer to the SM Live port specifications for the characteristics of the built-in filter.

3. Set the autorange acquisition time (see Setting the Autorange Acquisition Time on page 60).

4. Go to the OTDR tab.

5. If your OTDR supports singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode

wavelengths, under Wavelengths, from the list, select the desired fiber type (for live-fiber testing, select SM Live; for C fiber, select 50 μm and for D fiber, select 62.5 μm).

MAX-700 53

Testing Fibers in Auto Mode

6. Select the boxes corresponding to the desired test wavelengths. You must select at least one wavelength.

7. If you want to clear the settings the OTDR has determined to start with a new set of OTDR settings, press Reset.

8. Press Start.

If the first connector check feature is enabled, a message will appear if there is a problem with the injection level (see Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check on page 48).

9. Once the analysis is complete, save the trace by pressing Quick Save in the button bar.

The application will use a file name based on the autonaming parameters you defined (see Naming Trace Files Automatically on page 44). This file name appears at the top of the graph and at the top of the linear view table.

Note: The application will only display the Save File dialog box if you have

activated the feature to always be prompted when you save a file. From this dialog box, you can change the location, the file name and the file format.

9a. If necessary, change the folder to which the file will be saved by

pressing the Location button.

9b. If necessary, specify a file name.

IMPORTANT

If you specify the name of an existing trace, the original file will be overwritten and only the new file will be available.

10. Press OK to confirm.

54 MAX-700

6 Testing Fibers in Advanced

Mode

Advanced mode offers all the tools you need to perform complete OTDR tests and measurements manually and gives you control over all test parameters.

Note: Most parameters can only be set if you select Advanced mode first. Once

you have finished selecting your settings, you can simply return to the test mode you prefer.

By default, in Advanced mode, all available test wavelengths are selected.

In this mode, you can either set the acquisition parameters yourself or let the application determine the most appropriate values.

In the latter case, the application will automatically evaluate the best settings according to the fiber link currently connected to the unit:

 The pulse width will be determined using a factory-defined

signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) requirement specified where the End-of-Fiber (EoF) event has been detected.

The EoF event detection algorithm uses the end-of-fiber threshold defined in the tab of the application setup. If you are not sure about which value to choose, revert to the factory default value for this parameter.

 The range will then be set automatically. This optimum value may

differ from the values currently associated with the Distance dial of the main window. In this case, the application will “add” the required value and mark it with a * symbol.

 The application uses the acquisition time defined in the Acquisition

tab of the OTDR setup (for more information, see Setting the Autorange Acquisition Time on page 60). The default value is 15 seconds. Longer

acquisitions give better OTDR results.

MAX-700 55

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Event

pane

Tra ce

display

Although the application sets the acquisition parameters, you can modify these values as needed, even while the acquisition is in progress. The OTDR simply restarts the averaging each time a modification is made.

Note: You can interrupt the acquisition at any time. The application will display

the information acquired to that point.

Once the acquisition is complete or interrupted, the analysis starts for acquisitions of 5 seconds or more.

After analysis, the trace is displayed. Events appear both in the events table and in the linear view (if you purchased the optional software package).

The application will also display pass/fail messages if you have selected this feature. For more information, see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 70.

You can save the trace after analysis. If former results have not been saved yet, the application prompts you to save them before starting a new acquisition.

56 MAX-700

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

To acquire traces:

1. Clean the connectors properly (see Cleaning and Connecting Optical

Fibers on page 42).

2. Connect a fiber to the OTDR port.

If your unit is equipped with two OTDR ports, ensure that you connect the fiber to the appropriate port (singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode), depending on the wavelength you intend to use.

CAUTION

3. If you want the application to provide automatic acquisition values, set the autorange acquisition time (see Setting the Autorange Acquisition Time on page 60).

4. If you want to set your own IOR (group index), RBS coefficient or helix factor, see Setting the IOR, RBS Coefficient, and Helix Factor on page 61.

5. Go to the OTDR tab.

6. If you want to test in high resolution, simply select the feature (see

Enabling the High-Resolution Feature on page 66).

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Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

7. If your OTDR supports singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode

wavelengths, under Wavelengths, from the list, select the desired fiber type (for live-fiber testing, select SM Live; for C fiber, select 50 μm and for D fiber, select 62.5 μm).

8. Select the boxes corresponding to the desired test wavelengths. You must select at least one wavelength.

9. Select the desired distance, pulse, and time values. For more information, see Setting Distance Range, Pulse Width, and Acquisition Time on page 63.

10. Press Start. If the first connector check feature is enabled, a message will appear if there is a problem with the injection level (see Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check on page 48).

You can modify the acquisition parameters as needed, while the acquisition is in progress. The OTDR simply restarts the averaging each time a modification is made.

58 MAX-700

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

11. Once the analysis is complete, save the trace by pressing Quick Save

in the button bar.

Note: The application will only display the Save File dialog box if you have

activated the feature to always be prompted when you save a file. From this dialog box, you can change the location, the file name and the file format.

11a.If necessary, change the folder to which the file will be saved by

pressing the Location button.

11b.If necessary, specify a file name.

IMPORTANT

If you enter the name of an existing trace, the original file will be replaced with the new file.

12. Press OK to confirm.

MAX-700 59

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Setting the Autorange Acquisition Time

Note: This function is available both in Advanced and Auto modes.

When performing automatic acquisitions in Advanced mode (see Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode on page 55) or before activating Auto mode (see Testing Fibers in Auto Mode on page 51), you can set an autorange

acquisition time for the OTDR to average acquisitions over a set time period.

The application uses this value to determine the best settings for the test.

To set the autorange acquisition time:

1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup then go to the Acquisition tab.

2. Go to the Autorange acquisition time box and press the up or down

arrow to select your preference. The default value is 30 seconds.

3. Press Exit OTDR Setup to return to the OTDR application.

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Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Setting the IOR, RBS Coefficient, and Helix Factor

Note: This function is available both in Advanced and Auto modes.

You sho uld set the IOR (g r ou p in dex ) , RBS coefficient and helix factor before performing tests in order to apply them to all newly acquired traces. However, if you are in Advanced mode, you can also set them at a later time in the Trace Info. tab to reanalyze a specific trace.

 The index of refraction (IOR) value (also known as group index) is

used to convert time-of-flight to distance. Having the proper IOR is crucial for all OTDR measurements associated with distance (event position, attenuation, section length, total length, etc.). IOR is provided by the cable or fiber manufacturer.

The test application determines a default value for each wavelength. You can set the IOR value for each available wavelength. You should verify this information before each test.

 The Rayleigh backscatter (RBS) coefficient represents the amount of

backscatter in a particular fiber. The RBS coefficient is used in the calculation of event loss and reflectance, and it can usually be obtained from the cable manufacturer.

The test application determines a default value for each wavelength. You can set the RBS coefficient for each available wavelength.

 The helix factor takes into consideration the difference between the

length of the cable and the length of the fiber inside the cable. Fibers within a cable are spiraling around the cable core. The helix factor describes the pitch of that spiral.

By setting the helix factor, the length of the OTDR distance axis is always equivalent to the physical length of the cable (not the fiber).

MAX-700 61

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Wavelength for which

RBS and IOR will be

defined

Index of refraction

Rayleigh backscatter

coefficient

Setting the IOR, RBS Coefficient, and Helix Factor

To set the IOR, RBS, and helix factor parameters:

1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup.

2. From the OTDR Setup window, go to the Acquisition tab.

3. Use the up or down arrow located on the side of the wavelength box to

select the desired wavelength.

IMPORTANT

Change the default RBS coefficient only if you have values provided by the fiber manufacturer. If you set this parameter incorrectly, your reflectance measurements will be inaccurate.

4. Select the default settings by pressing Default. When the application prompts you, answer Yes only if you want to apply the new settings to all wavelengths.

Enter your own values in the boxes, for each available wavelength.

Note: You cannot define a different helix factor for each wavelength. This value

takes into account the difference between the length of the cable and the length of the fiber inside the cable; it does not vary with wavelengths.

62 MAX-700

5. Press Exit OTDR Setup.

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Setting Distance Range, Pulse Width, and Acquisition Time

The distance range, pulse width and acquisition time are set with the controls in the Advanced main window.

 Distance: corresponds to the distance range of the fiber span to be

tested according to the selected measurement units (see Selecting the Distance Units on page 99).

Changing the distance range alters the available settings of the pulse width and leaves only the settings available for the specified range. You can select either Auto or one of the predefined values.

You can customize the available distance range values (see Customizing the Acquisition Distance Range Values on page 101). If you select Auto, the application will evaluate the fiber length and set the acquisition parameters accordingly.

 Pulse: corresponds to the pulse width for the test. A longer pulse

allows you to probe further along the fiber, but results in less resolution. A shorter pulse width provides higher resolution, but less distance range. The available distance ranges and pulse widths depend on your OTDR model.

Note: Not all pulse widths are compatible with all distance ranges.

You can select either Auto or one of the predefined values. If you select Auto, the application will evaluate the fiber type and length and set the acquisition parameters accordingly.

MAX-700 63

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Setting Distance Range, Pulse Width, and Acquisition Time

 Time: corresponds to the acquisition duration (period during which

results will be averaged). Generally, longer acquisition times generate cleaner traces (this is especially true with long-distance traces) because as the acquisition time increases, more of the noise is averaged out. This averaging increases the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and the OTDR’s ability to detect small events.

The time settings will also determine how the timer (displayed in the toolbar) counts time during testing (see Timer on page 39).

If the predefined values do not suit your needs, you can customize one or all of them. For more information, see Customizing the Acquisition Time Values on page 103.

In addition to the displayed values, the following time modes are available:

 Real: used to immediately view changes in the fiber under test. In

this mode, the SNR of the trace is lower and the trace is refreshed instead of averaged until you press Stop.

You can alternate between real mode and averaging time interval mode while an acquisition is in progress.

Note: The Real item will be available if only one wavelength is selected.

 Auto: the application will use the autorange acquisition time that

you have previously defined (see Setting the Autorange Acquisition Time on page 60). It will also evaluate the fiber type and length and

set the acquisition parameters accordingly.

You can use the same distance range, pulse width and acquisition time parameters for testing at all wavelengths on a multiwavelength OTDR.

IMPORTANT

To test using the high-resolution feature, the acquisition time must be of at least 15 seconds.

64 MAX-700

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Parameter-setting dials

Selection marker

Setting Distance Range, Pulse Width, and Acquisition Time

To set the parameters:

From the OTDR tab:

 Press the dial corresponding to the parameter you wish to set (the

selection marker will move clockwise).

 Press directly the value to select it. The selection marker will go to that

value immediately.

If you want the application to provide automatic acquisition values, move at least one dial to the Auto position. The other dials are automatically set accordingly.

Note: If your OTDR supports singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode

wavelengths, settings would be applied to either singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode wavelengths, depending on the selected fiber type (same settings for 50 μm and 62.5 μm).

MAX-700 65

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Enabling the High-Resolution Feature

To use the same pulse and acquisition time for all wavelengths:

1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup, then go to the Acquisition

tab.

2. Select the Apply settings to all wavelengths box.

The modifications you make to pulse, time, and range settings will now be applied to all wavelengths.

Enabling the High-Resolution Feature

You can select the high-resolution feature to obtain more data points per acquisition. This way, the data points will be closer to each other, which will result in a greater distance resolution for the trace.

Note: When you test with the high-resolution feature, you should use a longer

averaging time to maintain a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) that will be equivalent to the one you would have got with the standard resolution.

Note: You can use high resolution with any test mode (except when you monitor

fiber in real time), but you must be in Advanced mode to select it.

IMPORTANT

To test using the high-resolution feature, the acquisition time must be of at least 15 seconds.

66 MAX-700

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Enabling the High-Resolution Feature

To enable the high-resolution feature:

1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup.

2. Go to the Acquisition tab.

3. Select the High-resolution acquisition box.

Note: If your OTDR supports singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode

wavelengths, the high-resolution feature will be activated either for the singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode wavelengths, depending on the selected fiber type.

4. Press Exit OTDR Setup to return to the main window.

MAX-700 67

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Enabling or Disabling Analysis After Acquisition

The OTDR trace acquisition procedure will be completed by the analysis. You can either choose to automatically analyze each trace immediately after the acquisition, or perform the analysis whenever it suits you best.

When the analysis process is disabled, the Event table of a newly acquired trace will be empty.

You can also set a default fiber span, which will be applied during the analysis of all traces to display test results. For details, see Setting a Default Span Start and Span End on page 75.

Note: In Auto mode, the application always performs an analysis after the

acquisition.

68 MAX-700

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Enabling or Disabling Analysis After Acquisition

To enable or disable the analysis after trace acquisition:

1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup.

2. Go to the Analysis tab.

3. If you want the OTDR to automatically analyze an acquired trace,

select the Automatically analyze data after acquisition box.

If you clear the check box, the trace will be acquired without being analyzed.

Note: By default, traces are automatically analyzed as they are acquired.

4. Press Exit OTDR Setup to return to the main window.

MAX-700 69

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds

You can activate and set Pass/Fail threshold parameters for your tests.

You can set thresholds for splice loss, connector loss, reflectance, fiber section attenuation, span loss, span length, and span ORL. You can apply the same pass/fail thresholds to all test wavelengths or apply them separately to each one.

You can set different pass/fail thresholds for each available test wavelength. These pass/fail thresholds will be applied to the analysis results of all newly acquired traces with the corresponding wavelength.

By default, the application provides threshold values for the following wavelengths: 1310 nm, 1383 nm, 1390 nm, 1410 nm, 1490 nm, 1550 nm, 1625 nm, and 1650 nm. However, if you work with files containing other wavelengths, the application will automatically add these custom wavelengths to the list of available wavelengths. You will then be able to define thresholds for these new wavelengths. You can revert all thresholds to their default values, except if they are associated with custom wavelengths.

The loss, reflectance and attenuation thresholds that you set are applied to all events where such values can be measured. Setting these thresholds allows you either to ignore events with known lower values, or to ensure that all events are detected—even the ones for which very small values are measured.

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Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds

The following table provides the default, minimum and maximum thresholds.

Test Default Minimum Maximum

Splice loss (dB) 1.000 0.015 5.000

Connector loss (dB) 1.000 0.015 5.000

Fiber section attenuation (dB/km) 0.400 0.000 5.000

Once the thresholds are set, the application will be able to perform Pass/Fail tests to determine the status of the various events (pass or fail).

The Pass/Fail test is performed on two occasions:

 when analyzing or reanalyzing a trace

 when you open a trace file

Values that are greater than the predefined thresholds are displayed in white on a red background in the events table.

The Pass/Fail threshold LED, located on the front of the unit, will also indicate the status (green for pass, red for fail).

You can also set the application to display pass/fail messages when the Pass/Fail test is performed.

MAX-700 71

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Threshold to set

Value associated with the threshold to set

Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds

To set pass/fail thresholds:

1. From the button bar, select OTDR Setup, then select the Event Table

tab.

2. From the Wa vel e ngth list, select the wavelength for which you want to set thresholds.

3. Select the boxes corresponding to the thresholds that you want to use, and enter the desired values in the appropriate fields.

Note: If you no longer want the application to take into account a particular

threshold, simply clear the corresponding box.

4. If you want the application to display messages when events fail the test, select Display Pass/Fail message.

72 MAX-700

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds

5. If you want to apply the thresholds you have just defined to one or several other wavelengths, proceed as follows:

5a. Press the Copy to Other Wavelengths button.

5b. Select the boxes corresponding to the wavelengths for which you

want to use the same thresholds.

Note: You can use the Select All button to quickly select all boxes at the same

time.

5c. Press OK to confirm you selection.

6. Press Exit OTDR Setup to return to the main window.

MAX-700 73

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds

To revert to default threshold values and to delete custom wavelengths:

1. From the button bar, select OTDR Setup, then select the Event Table

tab.

2. Press the Revert to Factory Settings button.

3. When the application prompts you, confirm the modification with Yes.

All threshold values of all wavelengths are returned to their default values, except for thresholds that are associated with custom wavelengths.

When you revert thresholds to their default values, custom wavelengths will be deleted from the list of available wavelengths, except if a file using at least one of these wavelengths is still open.

IMPORTANT

74 MAX-700

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Setting a Default Span Start and Span End

By default, the span start and span end of a fiber are assigned, respectively, to the first event (the launch level event) and the last event (often a non-reflective or reflective end event) of a trace.

You can change the default fiber span that will be applied during the initial trace analysis.

You can set the span start and span end on a particular event or at a certain distance value from the beginning or end of the trace. You can even define a fiber span for short fibers by placing the span start and the span end on the same event.

 By default, the number of available events is set to 10 and, therefore,

does not necessarily reflect the actual number of events displayed.

 When you set a distance value for the span start or end, the application

searches for a nearby event. If it finds one, the span start or end is assigned to that event, rather than at the exact distance you have set.

Changes to the span start and span end will modify the contents of the events table. The span start becomes event 1 and its distance reference becomes 0. Events excluded from the fiber span are grayed out in the events table, and do not appear in the trace display. The cumulative loss is calculated within the defined fiber span only.

Note: You can also change the fiber span of a single trace after the analysis and

reanalyze the trace (see Analyzing or Reanalyzing a Trace on page 155). However, if you want to keep working with the original parameters, you must reenter them.

MAX-700 75

Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

Setting a Default Span Start and Span End

To change the default span start and span end for traces:

1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup.

2. From the OTDR Setup window, go to the Analysis tab.

3. If you want to set the span start and end with a distance value, under

Span start and Span end, select Set by distance. Go to the Position box and enter the desired value, using the distance units displayed to the right of the box.

Under Span end, indicate whether the span end position is from the fiber span start or from the end of the fiber.

If you want to set the span start and end on a particular event, under Span start and Span end, select Set on event. From the Event number list, use the up or down arrow to select the number of the event that you want to designate as span start or span end.

The span event parameters are applied to all newly acquired traces.

76 MAX-700

7 Testing Fibers in Fault Finder

Mode

The application offers you a special testing feature to rapidly locate fiber ends. It also displays the length of the fiber under test.

This could be useful if you want to perform a quick test without having to set all the acquisition parameters.

Acquiring Traces in Fault Finder Mode

The unit will determine the more appropriate wavelength (singlemode or multimode, depending on your test configuration). It will use the default IOR (group index), RBS coefficient, and helix factor. The duration of acquisition is 45 seconds.

To acquire traces in Fault finder mode:

1. Clean the connectors properly (see Cleaning and Connecting Optical

Fibers on page 42).

2. Connect a fiber to the OTDR port.

If your unit is equipped with two OTDR ports, ensure that you connect the fiber to the appropriate port (singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode), depending on the wavelength you intend to use.

CAUTION

MAX-700 77

Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode

Acquiring Traces in Fault Finder Mode

3. From the Port list, specify to which port you connected your fiber.

4. Press Start. If the first connector check feature is enabled, a message

will appear if there is a problem with the injection level (see Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check for Fault Finder on page 87).

78 MAX-700

Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode

Acquiring Traces in Fault Finder Mode

5. Once the analysis is complete, save the trace by pressing Quick Save in the button bar.

The application will use a file name based on the autonaming parameters you defined (see Naming Fault Finder Files Automatically on page 80). This file name appears at the top of the graph.

Note: The application will only display the Save File dialog box if you have

activated the feature to always be prompted when you save a file and if you did not disable the storage features. From the Save File dialog box, you can change the location, the file name and the file format.

5a. If necessary, change the folder to which the file will be saved by

pressing the Location button.

5b. If necessary, specify a file name.

IMPORTANT

If you specify the name of an existing trace, the original file will be overwritten and only the new file will be available.

5c. Press OK to confirm.

MAX-700 79

Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode

Naming Fault Finder Files Automatically

Each time you start an acquisition, the Fault Finder application suggests a file name based on autonaming settings. This file name appears on the upper part of the graph.

Note: The autonaming settings used in Fault Finder mode are independent from

those used in Auto or Advanced modes. File names are built following the same principle, but there is one set of settings for Fault Finder and one set of settings for the other OTDR modes.

The file name is made of a static part (alphanumeric) and a variable part (numeric) that will be incremented or decremented, according to your selection, as follows:

If you choose incrementation... If you choose decrementation...

Variable part increases until it reaches the highest possible value with the selected number of digits (for example, 99 for 2 digits), then restarts at 0.

After saving a result, the unit prepares the next file name by incrementing (or decrementing) the suffix.

Note: If you choose not to save a particular trace file, the suggested file name will

remain available for the next trace you will acquire.

By default, traces are saved in native (.trc) format, but you can configure your unit to save them in Bellcore (.sor) format (see Selecting the Default File Format for the Fault Finder Traces on page 82).

80 MAX-700

Variable part decreases until it reaches 0, then restarts at the highest possible value with the selected number of digits (for example, 99 for 2digits).

Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode

Number of digits composing the variable part

Static part Variable part (incremented)

The value appearing in this box will be used in the next file name.

File name extension (corresponds to the current file format)

Naming Fault Finder Files Automatically

To configure the automatic file naming:

1. From the button bar, press Setup.

2. From the Setup window, select the General tab then press the File

Autonaming button.

3. From the Autonaming Setup dialog box, set the parameters.

If you want the variable part to increase each time a file is saved, select Increment. If you want it to decrease, select Decrement.

4. Press OK to confirm your new settings.

MAX-700 81

Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode

Selecting the Default File Format for the Fault Finder Traces

You can define the default file format the Fault Finder application will use when you save your traces.

Note: The default file format used in Fault Finder mode are independent from the

file format used in Auto or Advanced modes. There is one default file format for Fault Finder and one default file format for the other OTDR modes.

By default, traces are saved in native (.trc) format, but you can configure your unit to save them in Bellcore (.sor) format.

You can only modify the file format from the Save File dialog box, which means you need to save at least one trace in the desired format before it becomes the new default file format.

Note: The application will only display this dialog box if you have activated the

feature to always be prompted when you save a file (see Enabling or Disabling the Confirmation of Fault Finder File Name on page 84) and if you did not disable the storage features.

82 MAX-700

Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode

Selecting the Default File Format for the Fault Finder Traces

To select the default file format:

1. From the button bar, press Quick Save.

2. From the Save File dialog box, select the desired format.

3. Press OK to save your file in the new format. The next files will be

saved in the new format.

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Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode

Enabling or Disabling the Confirmation of Fault Finder File Name

By default, each time you save a file, the application prompts you to confirm the file name.

Note: The file name confirmation parameter used in Fault Finder mode is

independent from the one used in the other OTDR modes (Auto and Advanced).

The application will use a file name based on autonaming settings (see Naming Fault Finder Files Automatically on page 80).

If you prefer to hide the Quick Save button, see Enabling or Disabling the Storage Feature on page 86.

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Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode

Enabling or Disabling the Confirmation of Fault Finder File Name

To enable or disable file name confirmation:

1. From the button bar, press Setup, then go to the General tab.

2. If you want to confirm file name each time you press Quick Save,

select the Always show confirmation window on save check box.

If you never want to be prompted, clear the check box.

Note: You can also disable the confirmation of the file name by clearing the

Always show this window on save check box directly from the Save File dialog box.

3. Press Exit Setup to return to the main window. The changes are applied automatically.

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Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode

Enabling or Disabling the Storage Feature

By default, the Quick Save button is displayed in the button bar. However, if you only want to perform quick tests without having to save the results, you may prefer to hide the Quick Save button.

To enable or disable the storage feature:

1. From the button bar, press Setup, then go to the General tab.

2. If you want to hide the Quick Save button, select the

Disable storage features check box.

If you want to display the button, clear the check box.

3. Press Exit Setup to return to the main window. The changes are

applied automatically.

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Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode

Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check for Fault Finder

The first connector check feature is used to verify that the fibers are properly connected to the OTDR. It verifies the injection level and displays a message when a unusually high loss occurs at the first connection, which could indicate that no fiber is connected to the OTDR port. By default, this feature is not enabled.

Note: The first connector check is only performed when you test at singlemode

wavelengths.

Note: The first connector check parameter used in Fault Finder mode is

independent from the one used in the other OTDR modes (Auto and Advanced).

MAX-700 87

Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode

Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check for Fault Finder

To enable or disable the first connector check:

1. From the button bar, press Setup then select the General tab.

2. To enable the first connector check, select the First connector check

check box.

To disable it, clear the check box.

3. Press Exit Setup to return to the main window. The changes are

applied automatically.

88 MAX-700

EXFO MAX-700 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Certification Information

1 Introducing the MAX-700

Main Features

LED Indicators Description

Function Buttons Description

Trace Acquisition Modes

Optional Software Package

Data Post-Processing

OTDR Basic Principles

Power Sources

Conventions

2 Safety Information

Laser Safety Information

Electrical Safety Information

Using the Supports

Securing Your Unit Using a Kensington Lock

Installing a Keyboard, Mouse or Other USB Devices

Using the On-Screen (Virtual) Keyboard

Right-Clicking with the Touchscreen

Turning On or Off the Unit

Installing or Upgrading the Applications

Activating Software Options

Starting Instrument Applications

Timer

Installing the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI)

Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers

Naming Trace Files Automatically

Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check

Setting Macrobend Parameters

5 Testing Fibers in Auto Mode

Setting the Autorange Acquisition Time

Setting the IOR, RBS Coefficient, and Helix Factor

Setting Distance Range, Pulse Width, and Acquisition Time

Enabling the High-Resolution Feature

Enabling or Disabling Analysis After Acquisition

Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds

Setting a Default Span Start and Span End

Acquiring Traces in Fault Finder Mode

Naming Fault Finder Files Automatically

Selecting the Default File Format for the Fault Finder Traces

Enabling or Disabling the Confirmation of Fault Finder File Name

Enabling or Disabling the Storage Feature

Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check for Fault Finder