Each Fluke Networks product is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service.
The warranty period for the mainframe is one year and begins on the date of purchase. Parts, accessories, product repairs and
services are warranted for 90 days, unless otherwise stated. Ni-Cad, Ni-MH and Li-Ion batteries, cables or other peripherals are
all considered parts or accessories. The warranty extends only to the original buyer or end user customer of a Fluke Networks
authorized reseller, and does not apply to any product which, in Fluke Networks’ opinion, has been misused, abused, altered,
neglected, contaminated, or damaged by accident or abnormal conditions of operation or handling. Fluke Networks warrants
that software will operate substantially in accordance with its functional specifications for 90 days and that it has been properly
recorded on non-defective media. Fluke Networks does not warrant that software will be error free or operate without
interruption.
Fluke Networks authorized resellers shall extend this warranty on new and unused products to end-user customers only but
have no authority to extend a greater or different warranty on behalf of Fluke Networks. Warranty support is available only if
product is purchased through a Fluke Networks authorized sales outlet or Buyer has paid the applicable international price.
Fluke Networks reserves the right to invoice Buyer for importation costs of repair/replacement parts when product purchased in
one country is submitted for repair in another country.
Fluke Networks warranty obligation is limited, at Fluke Networks option, to refund of the purchase price, free of charge repair,
or replacement of a defective product which is returned to a Fluke Networks authorized service center within the warranty
period.
To obtain warranty service, contact your nearest Fluke Networks authorized service center to obtain return authorization
information, then send the product to that service center, with a description of the difficulty, postage and insurance prepaid
(FOB destination). Fluke Networks assumes no risk for damage in transit. Following warranty repair, the product will be
returned to Buyer, transportation prepaid (FOB destination). If Fluke Networks determines that failure was caused by neglect,
misuse, contamination, alteration, accident or abnormal condition of operation or handling, or normal wear and tear of
mechanical components, Fluke Networks will provide an estimate of repair costs and obtain authorization before commencing
the work. Following repair, the product will be returned to the Buyer transportation prepaid and the Buyer will be billed for
the repair and return transportation charges (FOB Shipping point).
THIS WARRANTY IS BUYER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED,
INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OR MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
FLUKE NETWORKS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSSES,
INCLUDING LOSS OF DATA, ARISING FROM ANY CAUSE OR THEORY.
Since some countries or states do not allow limitation of the term of an implied warranty, or exclusion or limitation of
incidental or consequential damages, the limitations and exclusions of this warranty may not apply to every buyer. If any
provision of this Warranty is held invalid or unenforceable by a court or other decision-maker of competent jurisdiction, such
holding will not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision.
4/04
Fluke Networks
PO Box 777
Everett, WA 98206-0777
USA
SOFTWARE NOTICE
This notice applies to portions of the software used in this product.
Copyright
The Regents of the University of California. All rights reserved.
Redistribution and use in source and binary forms, with or without modification, are permitted provided that the following
conditions are met:
1. Redistributions of source code must retain the above copyright notice, this list of conditions, and the following disclaimer.
2. Redistributions in binary form must reproduce the above copyright notice, this list of conditions, and the following disclaimer
in the documentation and/or other materials provided with the distribution.
3. All advertising materials mentioning features or use of this software must display the following acknowledgement:
This product includes software developed by the University of California, Berkeley and its contributors.
4. Neither the name of the University nor the names of its contributors may be used to endorse or promote products derived
from this software without specific prior written permission.
THIS SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED BY THE REGENTS AND CONTRIBUTORS “AS IS” AND ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES,
INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE ARE DISCLAIMED. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE REGENTS OR CONTRIBUTORS BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT,
INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, PROCUREMENT OF
SUBSTITUTE GOODS OR SERVICES; LOSS OF USE, DATA, OR PROFITS; OR BUSINESS INTERRUPTION) HOWEVER CAUSED AND ON
ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, STRICT LIABILITY, OR TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE)
ARISING IN ANY WAY OUT OF THE USE OF THIS SOFTWARE, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGE.
'zlib' general purpose compression library
Version 1.1.3, July 9th, 1998
While this manual describes specific operating
procedures for the OptiFiber tester, the fiber test
methods described are provided only as
guidelines. Your test methods may vary.
Overview of Features
The OF-500 OptiFiber™ Certifying OTDR (hereafter referred
to as the tester) is a hand-held Optical Time Domain
Reflectometer (OTDR) that locates and characterizes
reflective and loss events in multimode and singlemode
fibers. The tester is optimized for use on the shorter fiber
runs typically installed in premises (building and campus)
networks. Typical test ranges are up to 7 km at 1300 nm for
multimode fiber and up to 60 km for singlemode fiber.
The tester offers the following features:
•
Automated OTDR trace and event analysis help you
identify and locate faults on multimode (850 nm and
1300 nm; 50 µm and 62.5 µm) and singlemode
(1310 nm and 1550 nm; 9 µm) fiber.
•
Displays OTDR results in summary format, as a table of
events, or as an interpretive OTDR trace. PASS/FAIL
results are based on factory-installed limits or limits you
specify.
•
ChannelMap™ function provides an intuitive diagram
of the connectors and segment lengths in a channel.
•
FaultMap™ function provides an intuitive diagram of
connections that might be bad.
•
Optional FiberInspector™ Video Probe lets you inspect
fiber endfaces and save the images.
•
Optional modules add visual fault locator
(OFTM-57xx only), power meter, and loss/length test set
functions to the standard OTDR.
1-1
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
•
Interchangeable connector adapters on the input ports
of the loss/length modules allow ISO-compliant
reference and test connections with a variety of
connector types.
•
Saves hundreds of test results on a removable memory
card or in internal memory.
•
Context-sensitive online help gives you quick access to
operating instructions and fiber troubleshooting
information.
•
LinkWare™ software lets you upload test results to a PC
and create professional-quality test reports. The
LinkWare Stats option generates browsable, graphical
reports of cable test statistics.
Registration
Registering your product with Fluke Networks gives you
access to valuable information on product updates,
troubleshooting tips, and other support services.
To register, fill out the online registration form on the Fluke
Networks website at www.flukenetworks.com/
registration.
Additional Resources for Cable Testing
Information
The Fluke Networks Knowledge Base answers common
questions about Fluke Networks products and provides
articles on cable testing techniques and technology.
To access the Knowledge Base, log on to
www.flukenetworks.com, then click Support > Knowledge
Base at the top of the page.
1-2
Getting Acquainted
Contacting Fluke Networks
1
Contacting Fluke Networks
Note
If you contact Fluke Networks about your tester,
have the tester's software and hardware version
numbers available if possible.
www.flukenetworks.com
support@flukenetworks.com
+1-425-446-4519
•
Australia: 61 (2) 8850-3333 or 61 (3) 9329 0244
•
Beijing: 86 (10) 6512-3435
•
Brazil: 11 3759-7600
•
Canada: 1-800-363-5853
•
Europe: +31-(0) 40 2675 600
•
Hong Kong: 852 2721-3228
•
Japan: 03-6714-3117
•
Korea: 82 2 539-6311
•
Singapore: 65-6799-5566
•
Taiwan: (886) 2-227-83199
•
USA: 1-800-283-5853
Visit our website for a complete list of phone numbers.
Unpacking
The OF-500 OptiFiber packages come with the accessories
listed below. If something is damaged or missing, contact
the place of purchase immediately.
Model numbers followed by a "/50M" include
50/125 µm accessories instead of 62.5/125 µm accessories
Model OF-500-01
•
OF-500 OptiFiber tester with battery pack
•
OFTM-5610B multimode OTDR module
•
62.5/125 µm multimode launch fiber (gray zipper),
100 m, SC/SC
•
Protective carrying case for tester
•
Carrying strap
•
Memory card
•
USB cable for PC communications
•
AC adapter
•
Users Manual
•
Product Manuals CD
•
LinkWare Software CD
1-3
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Model OF-500-02
•
OF-500 OptiFiber tester with battery pack
•
OFTM-5611B multimode OTDR module with power
meter option
•
62.5/125 µm multimode launch fiber (gray zipper),
100 m, SC/SC
•
Two 62.5/125 µm multimode duplex reference test
cords, 2 m, SC/SC
•
Two gray mandrels for 62.5/125 µm fiber with 3 mm
jackets
•
Protective carrying case for tester
•
Carrying strap
•
Memory card
•
USB cable for PC communications
•
AC adapter
•
Users Manual
•
Product Manuals CD
•
LinkWare Software CD
Model OF-500-03
•
OF-500 OptiFiber tester with battery pack
•
OFTM-5730 singlemode OTDR module
•
9/125 µm singlemode launch fiber (yellow zipper),
130 m, SC/SC
•
Protective carrying case for tester
•
Carrying strap
•
Memory card
•
USB cable for PC communications
•
AC adapter
•
Users Manual
•
Product Manuals CD
•
LinkWare Software CD
1-4
Getting Acquainted
Unpacking
1
Model OF-500-10
•
OF-500 OptiFiber tester with battery pack
•
OFTM-5612B multimode OTDR module with power
meter and loss/length options
•
OFTM-5352 FiberInspector Video Probe (250X/400X)
with adapter tip kit
•
62.5/125 µm multimode launch fiber (gray zipper),
100 m, SC/SC
•
Two 62.5/125 µm multimode duplex reference test
cords, 2 m, SC/SC
•
Two gray mandrels for 62.5/125 µm fiber with 3 mm
jackets
•
Protective carrying case for tester
•
Carrying strap
•
Soft carrying case for accessories
•
Memory card
•
USB memory card reader
•
USB cable for PC communications
•
AC adapter
•
Users Manual
•
Product Manuals CD
•
LinkWare Software CD
Model OF-500-13
•
OF-500 OptiFiber tester with battery pack
•
OFTM-5732 singlemode OTDR module with power
meter and loss/length options
•
DTX Smart Remote with DTX-SFM2 singlemode fiber
module and interchangeable SC adapter
•
OFTM-5352 FiberInspector Video Probe (250X/400X)
with adapter tip kit
•
9/125 µm singlemode launch fiber (yellow zipper),
130 m, SC/SC
•
Two 9/125 µm singlemode duplex reference test cords,
2 m, SC/SC
•
Carrying strap
•
Hard carrying case for tester
•
Soft carrying case for accessories
•
Memory card
•
USB memory card reader
•
USB cable for PC communications
•
AC adapter
•
Users Manual
•
Product Manuals CD
•
LinkWare Software CD
1-5
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Model OF-500-15
•
OF-500 OptiFiber tester with battery pack
•
OFTM-5612B multimode OTDR module with power
meter and loss/length options
•
DTX Smart Remote with DTX-MFM2 multimode fiber
module and interchangeable SC adapter
•
OFTM-5352 FiberInspector Video Probe (250X/400X)
with adapter tip kit
•
62.5/125 µm multimode launch fiber (gray zipper),
100 m, SC/SC
•
Two 62.5/125 µm multimode duplex reference test
cords, 2 m, SC/SC
•
Two gray mandrels for 62.5/125 µm fiber with 3 mm
jackets
•
OptiFiber carrying strap
•
Smart Remote carrying strap
•
Soft carrying case for accessories
•
Hard carrying case for tester
•
Memory card
•
USB memory card reader
•
USB cable for PC communications
•
Mini-B USB cable for OptiFiber Smart Remote
•
Two AC adapters
•
OptiFiber Users Manual
•
OptiFiber Product Manuals CD
•
Smart Remote Users Manual
•
Smart Remote Product CD
•
LinkWare Software CD
Model OF-500-35
•
OF-500 OptiFiber tester with battery pack
•
OFTM-5612B multimode OTDR module with power
meter and loss/length options
•
OFTM-5732 singlemode OTDR module with power
meter and loss/length options
•
OFTM-5352 FiberInspector Video Probe (250X/400X)
with adapter tip kit
•
62.5/125 µm multimode launch fiber (gray zipper),
m, SC/SC
100
•
9/125 µm singlemode launch fiber (yellow zipper),
m, SC/SC
130
•
Two 62.5/125 µm multimode duplex reference test
cords, 2 m, SC/SC
•
Two gray mandrels for 62.5/125 µm fiber with 3 mm
jackets
•
Two 9/125 µm singlemode duplex reference test cords,
2 m, SC/SC
•
Carrying strap
•
Soft carrying case for accessories
1-6
•
Hard carrying case for tester
•
Memory card
•
USB memory card reader
•
USB cable for PC communications
•
AC adapter
•
Users Manual
•
Product Manuals CD
•
LinkWare Software CD
Model OF-500-45
•
OF-500 OptiFiber tester with battery pack
•
OFTM-5612B multimode OTDR module with power
meter and loss/length options
•
OFTM-5732 singlemode OTDR module with power
meter and loss/length options
•
DTX Smart Remote with DTX-MFM2 multimode fiber
module and interchangeable SC adapter
•
DTX-SFM2 singlemode fiber module and
interchangeable SC adapter
•
OFTM-5352 FiberInspector Video Probe (250X/400X)
with adapter tip kit
•
62.5/125 µm multimode launch fiber (gray zipper),
100 m, SC/SC
•
50/125 µm multimode launch fiber (aqua zipper),
100 m, SC/SC
Getting Acquainted
Unpacking
•
9/125 µm singlemode launch fiber (yellow zipper),
130 m, SC/SC
•
Two 62.5/125 µm multimode duplex reference test
cords, 2 m, SC/SC
•
Two 50/125 µm multimode duplex reference test cords,
2 m, SC/SC
•
Two red mandrels for 62.5/125 µm fiber with 3 mm
jackets
•
Two gray mandrels for 62.5/125 µm fiber with 3 mm
jackets
•
Two 9/125 µm singlemode duplex reference test cords,
2 m, SC/SC
•
Carrying strap
•
Protective carrying case for accessories
•
Hard carrying case for tester
•
Protective carrying case for tester
•
Memory card reader
•
Memory card
•
USB cable for PC communications
•
Two AC adapters
•
Users Manual
•
Product Manuals CD
•
LinkWare Software CD
1
1-7
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Powering the Tester
WWarning
Read the safety information at the beginning of
Chapter 2 before using the tester.
You can power the tester with the ac adapter included or
with the removable lithium ion battery pack.
I to turn the tester on.
Press
Charging the Battery
Before you rely on battery power for the first time, charge
the battery for about 2 hours with the tester turned off.
You can also charge the battery when it is detached from
the tester, as shown in Figure 1-1.
A fully-charged battery lasts about 8 hours during typical
use. The battery typically takes about 4 hours to fully
charge when the tester is turned off.
Notes
You do not need to fully discharge the battery
before recharging it.
The battery will not charge if its temperature is
outside the range of 32 °F to 113 °F (0 °C to
45 °C).
*
Checking the Battery Status
Many of the tester’s screens show a battery status icon
() near the lower-right corner.
To see more information about the battery status press
F; then select Battery Status. Press H for detailed
information about the battery status screen.
The battery pack has its own LED power gauge, which you
can activate by pressing the small button near the LEDs, as
shown in Figure 1-1. The LEDs indicate the charge level as
follows:
•
No LEDs lit or 1 flashing: < 10 % charge
•
1 LED lit: 10 % to 33 % charge
•
2 LEDs lit: 33 % to 67 % charge
•
3 LEDs lit: > 67 % charge
1-8
Getting Acquainted
Powering the Tester
1
Figure 1-1. Battery Pack Feature
ajt20f.eps
1-9
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Changing the Language
To change the tester’s language, do the following:
1
Press S.
2
Press N once to select the System tab.
3
Press L to select LANGUAGE; then press t.
4
Use ML to select the desired language; then press
t.
5
Restart the tester to apply the new language.
Additional languages for the tester may be available with
software updates available on the Fluke Networks website.
Use LinkWare software to install or remove languages. See
“Updating the Tester’s Software” in Chapter 11 for details.
Removing and Installing the Module
The tester’s capabilities depend on which test module is
installed. Figure 1-2 shows how to remove the module.
WCaution
To avoid corrupting the tester's software, always
turn the tester off before removing or installing
the module.
Verifying Operation
The tester performs a basic self-test when you turn it on. If
the tester reports an error or does not turn on, refer to “If
Something Seems Wrong” in Chapter 11.
The tester shows the model number of the installed module
in the upper-right corner of the screen. If the screen shows
No Module Installed or Problem with Module or The
module needs a software update refer to “If Something
Seems Wrong” in Chapter 11.
1-10
Figure 1-2. Removing the Module
ajt56f.eps
Getting Acquainted
Verifying Operation
1
1-11
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Basic Features
The following sections describe the tester's basic features
and introduce the tester's menu system.
Front Panel Features
Figure 1-3 describes the tester’s front panel features.
1-12
A
N
M
L
K
O
PTIFIBER
F1
FUNCTIONS
SETUP
FIBER
INSPECTOR
F2
HELP
F4F5
F3
SAVE
VIEW
RECORDS
EXIT
ENTER
TEST
J
I
Figure 1-3. Front Panel Features
H
B
C
D
E
F
G
ajt12f.eps
A
LCD display with backlight and adjustable brightness.
B
s: Saves test results on the removable memory card
or in internal memory.
C
v: Shows the test records saved on the memory
card or in internal memory.
D
KNL M: Navigation keys let you move the cursor
or highlighted area on the screen and increment or
decrement alphanumeric values.
E
e: Exits the current screen.
F
J: Lets you adjust the display brightness.
G
t: Selects the highlighted item on the screen.
H
T: Starts the currently selected fiber test. The test
that will run is shown in the upper-left corner of the
display. To change the test, press
the HOME screen or select a test from the FUNCTIONS
menu.
A Change Test from
Getting Acquainted
Basic Features
I
H: Shows a help topic related to the current screen. To
see the help index, press
J
I: On/off key.
K
f: Activates the optional FiberInspector video probe,
which lets you inspect fiber endfaces and save the
images with test results.
L
F: Shows a list of additional test, configuration, and
status functions.
M
S: Shows the menus you use to configure the tester.
N
ABC DE: The five softkeys provide
functions related to the current screen. The current
functions are shown on the screen above the keys.
H again.
1
1-13
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Side and Top Panel Features
Figure 1-4 describes the tester’s connectors and other
features on the side and top panels.
1-14
Figure 1-4. Side and Top Panel Features
ajt14f.eps
A
Connector for the ac adapter. The LED turns on when
the adapter is connected to ac power.
B
USB port for uploading test reports to a PC and
downloading software updates from a PC to the tester.
See the LinkWare documentation for details on using
the USB port.
C
Six-pin mini DIN connector for an optional external PS2
keyboard.
D
Eight-pin mini DIN connector for the optional
FiberInspector video probe.
E
Fan vents.
F
RS-232C serial port for uploading test reports to a PC
and downloading software updates from a PC to the
tester. See the LinkWare documentation for details on
using the serial port.
G
Slot for the removable memory card. The LED lights
when the tester is writing to or reading from the
memory card.
H
Multimode (MM) or singlemode (SM) label for the
module.
Getting Acquainted
Basic Features
I
OFTM-57xx: Connector for the visual fault locator.
J
OTDR connector adapter (SC is standard). The LED lights
when the laser is active.
K
OFTM-5612B/5732: Loss/length output port (SC).
Transmits optical signals for loss/length tests.
L
OFTM-5731/5732/5611B/5612B: Loss/length input port
with interchangeable connector adapter (SC is standard).
Receives optical signals for power measurements and
loss/length tests.
WWarning
Never look directly into optical connectors. Some
sources produce invisible radiation that can
permanently damage your eyes.
M
Laser safety label (shown below).
*
CAUTION
1
ajt72f.eps
1-15
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
The HOME Screen
The HOME screen shows important test and job settings
you might need to change to configure the tester for your
needs.
L
K
J
I
H
Figure 1-5. Home Screen for OTDR with Loss/Length Option
Figure 1-5 describes a typical home screen.
G
F
E
A
B
C
D
ajt13f.eps
1-16
A
Model number of the installed module.
B
The current date and time.
C
Owner’s logo. See “Changing the Logo on the HOME
Screen” on page 1-26.
D
Battery status icon. For more information about the
battery, press
E
Press E to see the hardware and software versions and
calibration dates for the tester and the installed module.
F
Press DVFL to activate the visual fault locator.
G
If the last test run was not saved, you can press
C Unsaved Result to see the test’s results.
H
Press AChange Test to switch test modes. See K.
F; then select Battery Status.
Getting Acquainted
Basic Features
I
Action prompts. For most screens, this area prompts you
on what keys to press.
J
Important test and job settings. To change these
settings, use
press
change the item. Selecting the limit’s or type’s name lets
you see that item’s settings. You may also access the
tester’s settings by pressing
K
The test mode, which determines what type of test will
run when you press
on which module is installed. To change the test mode,
press
L
The name of the current screen.
KLMNto highlight a setting; then
t. Selecting TEST LIMIT or FIBER TYPE lets you
S.
T. The available modes depend
A Change Test.
1
1-17
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Using the Setup Menus
To access the tester’s settings press S. Figure 1-18
introduces the SETUP menus.
C
Figure 1-6. The SETUP Screen
To copy settings between testers, see page 12-5.
A
B
ajt17f.eps
1-18
A
The settings available on the current tab.
Note
To see details about a setting, highlight the setting;
then press
B
Use D Tab and E Ta b to move among tabs on the
SETUP screen.
C
Tabs for the setup menus:
•
•
H.
Job settings apply to the fiber installation you are
testing and are stored with saved test results. Use
these settings to identify the job site, set up cable ID
lists, and identify which end of the cabling you are
testing. See Chapter 2 for details.
System settings let you localize the tester and set
other user preferences, such as the power down
timeout and camera type.
Getting Acquainted
Basic Features
•
The Cable tab lets you select the type of fiber cable you
will test and define some cable characteristics for loss/
length tests. You can also change the index of refraction
if you do not want to use the default values.
Note
Select a fiber type before selecting a test limit. The
fiber type determines which test limits are available.
•
The OTDR tab lets you select a test limit and wavelength
for OTDR tests and enable launch fiber compensation.
You can also change settings for Manual OTDR mode.
See Chapter 3 for details.
•
The Loss/Length tab appears if the module includes the
loss/length option or power meter option (you can run
loss tests in Far End Source mode with the power meter
option). Use this tab to configure the loss/length test. See
Chapter 6 for details.
Different or additional tabs may be available depending
on the installed module.
1
1-19
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Checking the Software and Hardware Versions
To see the tester’s software and hardware versions press
E Version Info. from the HOME screen.
The VERSION screen shows the software and hardware
versions and serial numbers of the tester and the installed
module.
The software version information includes the date the
software was compiled at the factory.
To determine if your tester needs a software update visit
the Fluke Networks website to see if an update is available.
If "Unknown" is shown for the module software version
the module software is probably quite old. Update the
module software to the latest version.
The module information includes the date the module last
received calibration at a Fluke Networks service center. The
tester requires a traceable calibration at a Fluke Networks
service center once a year to ensure that it meets or exceeds
the published accuracy specifications.
Using the Online Help
When you press H, the tester shows a help topic that
relates to the current screen. Blue, underlined words are
links to other topics.
Note
The help files are stored in the mainframe (rather
than the module) and may describe features not
present in the installed module.
To go to a linked topic (blue, underlined words) use K N to
highlight the words; then press
To see an index of all help topics press H any time you are
in the help system.
Tip: The highlighted area cycles through the links on the
current screen if you continue to press the left or right
arrow key.
t.
1-20
Getting Acquainted
Basic Features
1
To mark a topic for quick access later press A Set
Bookmark when the topic you want to mark is displayed.
You can place multiple bookmarks.
To go to a bookmarked topic press B Go to Bookmark
while viewing help; then select the bookmark from the list.
To go back to the previous topic press C Back.
Overview of Memory Features
You can save results on a removable memory card or in the
tester's internal memory.
To set the location for saving tests press S then select
CURRENT FOLDER on the Job tab.
To check the memory status press F; then select
Memory Status. Press
card and internal memory status.
See Chapter 9 for details about the tester's memory
features.
A to switch between the memory
Using the Memory Card
Figure 1-22 shows how to insert and remove a memory
card. You can use MultiMediaCard (MMC) or Secure Digital
(SD) memory cards in the tester.
WCaution
Never remove the memory card while the
memory card’s LED is on. Doing so can corrupt the
data on the card.
S; then select CURRENT FOLDER on the Job tab to
Press
do the following:
•See the folders available on the memory card
•Change the destination for saved results. Use
to select a folder name; then press t. You can save
results on the memory card or in the tester's internal
memory.
•Create a new folder on the memory card. Press ANew Folder. Enter a name in the NEW FOLDER NAME
box; then press
•Delete an empty folder on the memory card. Press B Delete.
To format the memory card press
Memory Card.
s.
F; then select Format
L or M
1-21
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Using the Internal Memory
Internal memory lets you continue saving results if you run
out of memory card space. Internal memory is in the
mainframe (rather than in the module) and is retained
when you turn off the tester or remove the battery pack.
See Chapter 9 for more information on the internal
memory.
Using an External Keyboard
The keyboard jack on the right side of the tester accepts a
6-pin mini DIN (PS/2) plug. The tester accepts only the
characters available on its text editing screen. Figure 1-23
shows which keys you can use on the keyboard.
Note
You cannot use an external keyboard to enter
international characters.
The OptiFiber Product Manuals CD includes a full-size
function key reference diagram that you can print, cut out,
and attach to the keyboard.
1-22
ajt54f.eps
Figure 1-7. Inserting and Removing the Memory Card
Getting Acquainted
Basic Features
1
EXIT
F1
Esc F1 F2 F3 F4 F5 F6 F7 F8 F9 F10 F11 F12
Esc F1 F2 F3 F4 F5 F6 F7 F8 F9 F10 F11 F12
F2
#
F3
F4
F5
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 -
TEST
*
Q W E R T Y U I O P
A S D F G H J
Shift
Z X C V B N M
Figure 1-8. Using an External Keyboard
K
FUNCTIONS
SETUP
L
:
, . /
FIBER
INSPECTOR
[ ]
Del
Shift
SAVE
Backspace
Enter
VIEW
RECORDS
Home
PgUp
PgDn
End
HELP
ENTER
ajt18f.eps
1-23
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Setting User Preferences
The following sections describe settings you may want to
change when you first start using the tester.
Changing the Date, Time, and Numeric Formats
To set the date and time:
1
Press S; then press E to select the System tab.
2
Use L to highlight DATE or TIME; then press t.
3
Use N or K to highlight the field you want to change;
then use M or L to change the setting.
4
Press s when you are finished.
To select a date, time, or numeric format:
5
Press S; then press E to select the System tab.
6
Use L to highlight DATE FORMAT, TIME FORMAT, or
NUMERIC FORMAT; then press
7
Use L to highlight the desired format; then press
t.
t.
Changing the Length Units
1
Press S; then press E to select the System tab.
2
Use L to highlight LENGTH UNITS; then press t.
3
Use L to highlight the setting you want; then press
t.
Enabling or Disabling the Save Warning
If you do not save a test, it is deleted from temporary
memory when you run another test.
To enable or disable a warning that reminds you about the
unsaved test:
1
Press S; then press E to select the System tab.
2
Use L to highlight Enabled or Disabled; then press
t.
Adjusting the Display Brightness
Press J to see the brightness adjustment screen. Use K or
N for coarse adjustments; use D and E for fine
adjustments. Press
The setting is retained when you turn the tester off.
The brightness setting does not affect the battery life.
s when you are finished.
1-24
Getting Acquainted
Setting User Preferences
1
Using the Power Down Timer
The power down timer turns off the tester after a selected
period of inactivity.
Halfway through the timer period, the tester beeps, the
screen dims, and the tester enters a low-power mode. Thirty
seconds before the timer reaches zero, the tester beeps
again to alert you that it is about to turn off. Pressing any
key restarts the timer.
If the timer is disabled, the screen dims after 30 minutes of
inactivity to help conserve battery power.
Note
The power down timer is inactive when the ac
adapter is connected or when the USB or RS-232
serial port is active.
1
Press S; then press E to select the System tab.
2
Press t. Use L to highlight the setting you want;
then press
t.
Enabling or Disabling the Beeper
To enable or disable the tones for key presses and testing
progress
1
Press S; then press E to select the System tab.
2
Use L to highlight AUDIBLE TONE; then press t.
3
Use L to highlight the setting you want; then press
t.
1-25
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Changing the Logo on the HOME Screen
The tester’s HOME screen shows the Fluke Networks logo
by default.
To change the logo on the HOME screen:
1
Use a graphics application to create a graphic with the
following format:
•
Dimensions: 240 x 60 pixels maximum.
•
Colors: 128 colors maximum, with an indexed color
palette.
•
File format: Save the graphic as an 8-bit bitmap file
(.bmp) or an 8-bit Portable Networks Graphic file
(.png).
Note
The graphics application may list 256 colors with
the 8-bit setting; however, if your graphic uses
only 128 or fewer colors, it should work in the
tester.
2
Connect the tester to the PC via the serial or USB port.
3
In LinkWare select Utilities > OptiFiber Utilities >
Custom Logo. Locate and select the .bmp or .png logo file; then click Open.
4
Restart the tester to see the new logo.
Note
If the logo’s format is not valid, the tester deletes
the logo and uses the default logo.
To restore the Fluke Networks logo, select Utilities >
OptiFiber Utilities > Restore Default Logo; then restart the
tester
Enabling Software Options
To see the options available with the version of software
installed in the tester press F, highlight Enable OptiFiber Options; then press
be available with software updates.
To see details about the available options press H from
the OPTIFIBER OPTIONS screen.
To enable an option contact Fluke Networks to get a
registration key; then select the option on the OPTIFIBER OPTIONS screen to enter the key.
t. Additional options may
1-26
About LinkWare and LinkWare Stats
Software
The LinkWare™ Cable Test Management software included
with your tester lets you do the following:
•
Upload test records to PC.
•
View test results.
•
Add ANSI/TIA/EIA-606-A administration information to
records.
•
Organize, customize, and print professional-quality test
reports.
•
Update the tester’s software.
Details about using LinkWare software are provided in the
LinkWare Getting Started Guide and the online help
available under Help on the LinkWare menu.
Updates to LinkWare software are available on the Fluke
Networks website.
The LinkWare Stats Statistical Report option for LinkWare
software provides statistical analysis of cable test reports
and generates browsable, graphical reports. LinkWare
software includes a demo version of LinkWare Stats.
Contact Fluke Networks or visit the Fluke Networks website
for more information on LinkWare Stats.
Getting Acquainted
About LinkWare and LinkWare Stats Software
1
1-27
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
1-28
Chapter 2
Getting Started Testing Fiber
Safety Information
Table 2-1 shows the international electrical symbols used on
the tester or in this manual.
Table 2-1. International Electrical Symbols
X
W
*
Hg
Warning: Risk of fire, electric shock, or personal
injury.
Warning or Caution: Risk of damage or
destruction to equipment or software. See
explanations in the manuals.
Warning: Class 1 (OUTPUT port) and Class 2 (VFL
port) lasers. Risk of eye damage from hazardous
radiation.
Do not put products containing circuit boards
~
into the garbage. Dispose of circuit boards in
accordance with local regulations.
THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS MERCURY.
DISPOSE OF THIS PRODUCT IN ACCORDANCE
WITH LOCAL REGULATIONS.
2-1
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
WWarning: Class 1 and Class 2
Laser Products
To avoid possible eye damage caused by
hazardous radiation and to avoid possible fire,
electric shock, or personal injury:
•
Never look directly into optical connectors. Some
sources produce invisible radiation that can
permanently damage your eyes.
•
Never run any tests that activate the tester’s
outputs unless a fiber is attached to the output.
•
Do not open the case; no user-serviceable parts
are inside.
•
Do not modify the tester.
″
Do not use magnification to view the optical
outputs without proper filtering.
•
Use of controls, adjustments, or procedures not
stated herein might result in hazardous radiation
exposure.
•
Use only ac adapters approved by Fluke Networks
for use with the OptiFiber tester to charge the
battery or power the tester.
•
Do not use the tester if it is damaged. Inspect the
tester before use.
*
•
If this equipment is used in a manner not specified
by the manufacturer, the protection provided by
the equipment may be impaired.
WCaution
To avoid damaging the tester or cables under test
and to avoid data loss:
•
Always turn the tester off before removing or
installing a module.
•
Never connect the OTDR port to an optical source.
Doing so can damage the OTDR receiver.
•
Never connect the tester to an active network,
except when using the power meter. Doing so
causes unreliable test results and can disrupt
network operations.
•
If the tester shows an error because the power
reading is too high, immediately disconnect the
source from the tester. The tester is not designed
for measuring higher power levels, such as
produced by CATV, optical amplifiers, and cellular
systems.
•
Avoid touching reflective surfaces (such as metal)
to the end of a fiber cable plugged into the OTDR
when the OTDR is operating. An open fiber
connector endface has about a 4% reflection.
2-2
Getting Started Testing Fiber
Safety Information
2
Holding a reflective surface near the connector
endface may cause much greater than a 4%
reflection, which may damage the photodetector
in the OTDR.
•
Use proper cleaning procedures to clean all fiber
connectors before every use. Neglecting this step
or using improper procedures can cause unreliable
test results and may permanently damage the
connectors.
•
Use a Fluke Networks FiberInspector Video
Microscope to periodically inspect the OTDR and
loss/length option’s OUTPUT connectors for
scratches and other damage.
•
Read the instructions for splice machines before
using the OTDR to monitor splicing procedures.
The OTDR can interfere with the light injection
detection techniques used by some splicers.
•
To avoid unreliable test results, connect the ac
adapter or replace the battery as soon as the low
battery indication appears.
•
You may use a PC to move or copy test record
(.tst) files from a memory card, but do not rename
the .tst files. Doing so may result in loss of data.
•
Never remove the memory card while the
memory card’s LED is on. Doing so can corrupt the
data on the card.
•
Memory cards may be lost, damaged, or
accidentally formatted, resulting in data loss.
Therefore, Fluke Networks recommends saving no
more than one day’s worth of test results on a
memory card.
2-3
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Cleaning and Inspecting Fiber
Connectors and Adapters
Always clean and inspect fiber connectors before making
connections.
WCaution
See Chapters 3 and 6 for instructions on cleaning
the tester's OTDR and loss/length connectors.
Cleaning Bulkhead Connectors
1
Touch the tip of a fiber optic solvent pen or swab soaked
in solvent to a lint-free dry wipe or fiber cleaning card.
2
Touch a new, dry swab to the solvent spot on the wipe
or card. Push the swab into the connector, twist it
around 3 to 5 times against the end-face, then remove
and dispose of the swab.
3
Dry the connector with a dry swab by twisting it around
in the connector 3 to 5 times.
4
Inspect connectors with a fiber microscope, such as the
Fluke Networks FiberInspector™ Video Microscope
before making connections.
Cleaning Fiber Adapters
Periodically clean fiber adapters with a swab and fiber optic
solvent. Dry with a dry swab before use.
Cleaning Connector Ends
1
Touch the tip of a fiber optic solvent pen or swab soaked
in solvent to a lint-free dry wipe or fiber cleaning card.
2
Wipe the connector end-face across the solvent spot,
then back and forth once across the dry area of the
wipe or card.
Note
Some connector styles, such as VF-45, may require a
different cleaning method.
•
Always cover unused connectors with protective caps.
Clean caps periodically with a swab or wipe and fiber
optic solvent.
2-4
Getting Started Testing Fiber
Testing Your Reference Test Cords and Launch Fiber
2
Testing Your Reference Test Cords and
Launch Fiber
You should test your reference test cords and launch fiber
before each job. Use another set of known-good cords to
set a reference and run an Autotest on each patch cord and
launch fiber. Use Smart Remote mode to test two cords at a
time, or Loopback mode to test one cord.
You should also use a fiber microscope, such as the
FiberInspector video probe, to inspect the reference test
cord and launch fiber connectors for damage at least once a
day.
General Test Settings
The following sections describe settings you will usually
need to make before running a test:
•
Test mode
•
Fiber type
•
Test limit
•
Job settings
You may also want to change the index of refraction if you
do not want to use default values.
Information on settings specific to a particular test is
provided in the chapter for that test. For information on
setting user preferences, see Chapter 1.
To copy settings between testers, see page 12-5.
Selecting a Test Mode
The test mode determines what type of test will run when
you press
corner of the HOME screen. To change the test mode, press
T. The mode is shown in the upper-left
A Change Test; then select a test from the menu.
Selecting a Fiber Type
Note
Select a fiber type before selecting a test limit. The
fiber type determines which test limits are
available.
To select a fiber type, press
on the Cable tab.The list shows the last 10 fiber types used.
To see additional fibers, press B More; then select a FIBER GROUP.
The selected fiber type determines which test limits are
available, the default index of refraction, and other values
used for testing.
S; then select FIBER TYPE
2-5
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
You can also create custom fiber types based on specific
needs. Custom types are marked with asterisks (*) in the
fiber type list.
To create a custom fiber type, press
Custom Test Limit; then press
Chapter 10 for details.
F, select Edit
C Edit Fiber Types. See
Viewing Fiber Properties
To see the properties associated with a fiber type, do the
following:
1
Press S; then select the Cable tab.
2
Select FIBER TYPE.
3
Highlight a fiber type; then press A View FiberTyp e .
For details on fiber properties, see Chapter 10.
Selecting a Test Limit
Note
Select a fiber type before selecting a test limit. The
fiber type determines which test limits are
available.
The tester offers generic and industry-standard test limits
for testing fiber cable. The tester uses the selected limit to
produce PASS/ FAIL results.
To select a test limit, press
select TEST LIMIT. The list shows the last 10 limits used. To
see additional limits, press B More; then select a LIMIT GROUP.
The limit lists show only the limits that include the selected
fiber type and parameters for that test.
Generic limits, such as General Fiber and Document only, let
you run tests when no industry-standard limit applies and
you do not want to create a custom limit. The Document only limit does not produce PASS/FAIL results.
Custom limits you create are marked with asterisks (*). To
create a custom limit, press
Test Limit. See Chapter 10 for details.
S, select a test’s tab; then
F; then select Edit Custom
2-6
Viewing Test Limits
To see the values of a test limit that includes the fiber type
selected on the Cable tab, do the following:
1
Press S; then select a test’s tab.
2
Select TEST LIMIT.
3
Highlight a limit on the SET TEST LIMIT screen; then
press AView Limit.
If the Test Limit or Fiber Type is Not Valid with the
Test
•
The fiber type was changed on the Cable tab in Setup,
and the current test limit does not include the fiber
type. Select a different test limit.
•
The fiber type or test limit is missing a wavelength the
test uses. For example, you are trying to run a dualwavelength OTDR test, but the fiber type or limit does
not include both wavelengths. Select a different fiber
type or test limit.
•
The installed module does not support the selected
fiber type or test limit. For example, a singlemode fiber
type is selected, but a multimode module is installed.
Select a different fiber type or test limit or install a
different module.
Getting Started Testing Fiber
General Test Settings
•
The test limit does not include parameters for the type
of test you are trying to run. For example, you are
trying to run an OTDR test, but only loss/length limits
are defined in the selected test limit. Select a test limit
that includes limits for the test you want to run.
If you selected a custom fiber type or limit, you could also
edit the fiber type or limit to make it valid with the test. See
Chapter 10 for details.
2
Entering Job Settings
Job settings let you identify and organize the test results
you save. To access the job settings press
describes the job settings.
See “Tutorial: Preparing to Save Tests” on page 2-10 for
examples of how to configure the job settings.
S. Table 2-2
2-7
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Table 2-2. Job Settings
SettingDescription
COMPANYThe customer name, job site, job work order, or other job identifier.
OPERATORThe name of the OptiFiber user.
CURRENT FOLDERThe destination for tests you save. You can save tests in a folder on the memory card or in the
tester's internal memory. Selecting CURRENT FOLDER also lets you create a new folder on the
memory card. You cannot create folders in internal memory.
END 1, END 2Names you assign to the ends of the cabling. The names are saved with test records and also
appear on ChannelMap diagrams.
THIS ENDThe cable end where the tester is located. Based on this setting, the tester labels OTDR,
ChannelMap, FiberInspector, and power meter results as END 1 or END 2 to indicate which end
of the cabling you tested. Loss/length results are labeled END 1-2 or END 2-1.
AUTO SEQ TEMPLATEThe name of the pattern selected for the list of sequential fiber IDs. See “Creating a List of
Sequential IDs” on page 2-23 for details.
START ID, END IDThe first and last IDs in the auto sequence list. See “Creating a List of Sequential IDs” on page
2-23 for details.
2-8
Getting Started Testing Fiber
General Test Settings
2
Changing the Index of Refraction
The index of refraction is the ratio of the speed of light in a
vacuum to the speed of light in a fiber. The tester uses the
index of refraction to determine fiber length.
You can change the index of refraction on the Cable tab in
Setup.
When MANUAL CABLE SETTINGS on the Cable tab is
disabled, the tester uses the n values specified in the
selected fiber type.
When MANUAL CABLE SETTINGS is enabled, the tester uses
the n values you enter.
The n values defined in the fiber types are suitable for most
applications. Minor differences between the tester's n and a
fiber's actual n usually do not make enough difference in
length to fail a fiber.
You may want to change the index of refraction if
•
The customer wants you to use a specific n value for
the job.
•
The cable's fibers are longer than its jacket, and you
need to precisely locate a point on the cable (such as a
fault). In this case, adjust n until the measured length
matches a known length of fiber.
Increasing n decreases measured length.
Note
If you try to enter a value outside the valid range
for n, the tester shows N/A for the value. The valid
range is 1.1 to 1.71 inclusive.
To use the default n values specified in the selected fiber
type, set MANUAL CABLE SETTINGS to Disabled.
2-9
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Tutorial: Preparing to Save Tests
The tutorial in this section guides you through setting up
the tester to save tests.
1-4
On the AUTO SEQUENCE screen press B Edit Start.
Use the softkeys, K N ML, and t to change the
default ID to 03A-A01 in the CURRENT START ID box.
s when you are finished.
Press
Step 1: Creating a List of Sequential Fiber IDs
This step assumes the following scenario:
•
You will be testing 12 cables in two patch panels: cables
1 through 6 in panel A and cables 1 through 6 in panel
B.
•
Both panels are located in telecommunications closet A
on the third floor of the building.
•
Your fiber IDs will follow the ANSI/TIA/EIA-606-A
standard for horizontal links. See “About ANSI/TIA/EIA606-A Fiber IDs” on page 2- 25 for details.
1-1
Press S; then select AUTO SEQ TEMPLATE on the
Job tab.
1-2
On the AUTO SEQUENCE screen, press AChange
Template; then select Horizontal.
1-3
On the AUTO SEQUENCE screen press D Default to
transfer the default pattern into the START ID and STOP ID.
2-10
1-5
On the AUTO SEQUENCE screen press C Edit Stop.
Use the softkeys and
default ID to 03A-B06 in the CURRENT START ID box.
Press s when you are finished.
1-6
Press ESample List. You should see a list of 12
sequential fiber IDs: 03A-A01 through 03A-B06. If the
tester beeps instead of showing the list, see “Solving
Problems with Fiber ID Lists” on page 2-
1-7
Press e to leave the sample list.
1-8
Press s when you are finished setting up the list.
The list is saved in the mainframe (not on the memory
card or in the module).
KNML to change the
26.
Getting Started Testing Fiber
Tutorial: Preparing to Save Tests
2
Step 2: Setting Up a Job Folder
You can organize test results on the memory card by setting
up a folder for each job, as follows:
2-1
Insert a formatted memory card into the tester.
2-2
Press S; then select CURRENT FOLDER on the Job
tab.
2-3
Press ANew Folder. Use the softkeys, KNML,
and t to enter a folder name into the NEW FOLDER
NAME box. Figure
2-4
Press s when you are finished.
2-5
Press t to select the new folder as the current folder.
2-1 describes the text editing screen.
Step 3: Entering the Operator Name
For this tutorial you will enter your name as the operator.
3-1
Press S; then select OPERATOR on the Job tab.
3-2
Use the softkeys, K NML, and t to enter your
name into the OPERATOR box. Press
are finished.
s when you
Step 4: Identifying the Cabling Ends
For the OTDR and Loss/Length testing tutorials in this
chapter, you will save test results from both ends of the
cabling. To identify the test directions in the saved results,
enter END information on the Job tab as follows:
4-1
On the Job tab select END 1. Use the softkeys, K
NML
box. Press s when you are finished.
4-2
On the Job tab select END 2. Use the softkeys, K N
, and t to enter CLOSET into the END 1
ML, and tto enter WORK AREA into the END 2
box. Press s when you are finished.
4-3
On the Job tab, verify that THIS END is set to END 1.
Change it to END 1 if necessary.
Step 5: Setting the Save Warning
If you do not save a test, it is deleted from temporary
memory when you run another test. To enable or disable a
warning that reminds you to save the test, do the
following:
5-1
On the System tab, select SAVE WARNING.
5-2
Use LM to highlight Enabled or Disabled; then
t.
press
2-11
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
3
2
1
4
A
The characters available for use.
To select a character to enter in the text box, use
LMKN to highlight the character; then press H.
The character is entered to the left of the cursor.
B
The text you are entering.
C
The cursor. Use A B to move the cursor.
D
Moves the cursor to the left until it wraps back around
to the end of the text.
E
Decreases or increases the character at the cursor by one
position in the character list.
F
Deletes the character to the left of the cursor.
Tip: You can use an external keyboard to edit text (except
56
ajt65f.eps
Figure 2-1. Using the Text Editing Screen
international characters). See Chapter 1.
2-12
Getting Started Testing Fiber
Tutorial: Running an OTDR Test
2
Tutorial: Running an OTDR Test
The tutorial in this section familiarizes you with the tester
by guiding you through the following tasks:
•Using the tester’s menu system
•Connecting the tester to a cable
•Running an OTDR test
•Viewing the results in several levels of detail
•Saving bi-directional test results
Required Equipment
•
OptiFiber tester set up as follows:
¾Multimode module installed
¾Charged battery attached or the ac adapter
connected
¾Job settings configured as follows (see the tutorial
“Preparing to Save Tests” on page 2-10 for
configuration steps):
•
START ID and STOP ID set to 03A-A01 and
03A-B06
•
A job folder with any name created on the
memory card
•
Your name as the operator
•
END 1 set to CLOSET; END 2 set to WORK
AREA
•
THIS END set to END 1
•
Fiber cabling to test: 50 m to 2 km (165 ft to 6500 ft) of
multimode fiber. If possible, select cabling that has a
connector somewhere along its length.
•
A launch fiber that matches the type of cable you will
test
•
Fiber cleaning supplies
2-13
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Step 1: Selecting Auto OTDR Mode
On the HOME screen, verify that Auto OTDR appears in the
upper-left corner of the screen. If it does not, press
Change Test; then select Auto OTDR.
A
Step 2: Selecting a Fiber Type and Test Limit
2-1
Press S; then press D Ta b to select the Cable tab.
2-2
Press t to select FIBER TYPE.
2-3
Use LM to highlight the type of fiber you will test;
then press t to select the fiber type.
If the fiber type you want is not shown, press B More, select a FIBER GROUP; then highlight and select
a fiber type.
2-4
On the SETUP screen press E Ta b to select the OTDR
tab. If TEST LIMIT is already set to Document only, go
to step 3.
2-5
Press t to see the available test limits.
2-6
Use LM to highlight Document only; then press
t to select the limit.
If Document only is not listed, press B More, select
Application, then highlight and select Document only.
Step 3: Selecting a Wavelength
3-1
From the SETUP screen, press E Tab to select the
OTDR tab.
3-2
Change WAVELENGTH to Dual 850/1300 nm.
Step 4: Testing in the First Direction
4-1
Clean all fiber connectors.
4-2
Connect the launch fiber to the tester and to the
cabling. Figure
features on an OTDR trace.
4-3
Press T.
See page 3-13 for details on the OTDR Port
Connection Quality gauge shown on the OTDR
TESTING screen.
2-2 shows these connections and typical
-continued-
2-14
Getting Started Testing Fiber
Tutorial: Running an OTDR Test
2
Figure 2-2. Typical OTDR Connections and Trace Features
ajt21f.eps
2-15
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Step 5: Viewing the Results
The tester offers the following views of OTDR test results:
•
The SUMMARY screen, shown when the test is
finished, tells you if the cabling passed or failed based
on the selected test limits.
•
To see the OTDR trace, press A View Trace. Figure 2-2
shows some features of a typical OTDR trace.
•
To see a table of the events on the cabling, press B View Events.
See Chapter 3 for details on OTDR results.
Step 6: Saving Results from the First Direction
6-1
Press s.
6-2
If the tester shows a text editing screen, press A Pick
ID to access the fiber ID list you configured.
6-3
If the UNUSED AUTO SEQUENCE IDs list is not
showing, press
6-4
The tester highlights the first unused ID in the
UNUSED AUTO SEQUENCE IDs list. Press s to save
the test with this ID (03A-A01).
C Auto Seq IDs.
Step 7: Testing in the Second Direction
7-1
On the Job tab in Setup, change THIS END to END 2.
7-2
Clean the connector at the other end of the cabling,
connect the launch fiber to the connector; then press
T.
Step 8: Saving Results from the Second Direction
8-1
Press s.
8-2
Press BCurrent Folder IDs to see the IDs you have
already used.
8-3
Select the ID 03A-A01; then press s. The tester
adds the results from the second direction to the test
record.
This concludes the tutorial on using the OTDR. For more
information on using the OTDR, see Chapter 3.
2-16
Tutorial: Running a Loss/Length Test
This section familiarizes you with the basic operation of the
loss/length option by guiding you through a loss/length test
in Smart Remote mode.
Required Equipment
•
One OptiFiber tester set up as follows:
¾OFTM-5612B or OFTM-5732 module installed
¾Connector adapter installed on the tester's INPUT
port. Match the connectors on the fiber under test.
¾Charged batteries attached or the ac adapters
connected
¾Job settings configured as described in the tutorial
“Preparing to Save Tests” on page 2-10
•
A second OptiFiber tester set up like the first one, or a
DTX Smart Remote with a fiber module for the correct
wavelength and the correct connector adapter
installed
•
Two lengths of fiber cabling or a length of duplex
cabling to test
•
Two known-good duplex reference test cords of the
same fiber type as the cabling to be tested. See Figures
2-3 and 2-4 to determine the connector types you will
need.
Getting Started Testing Fiber
Tutorial: Running a Loss/Length Test
•
For testing multimode fiber, two mandrels of the
correct size
•
Fiber cleaning supplies
2
Step 1: Selecting Loss/Length Test Mode
On the HOME screen of both testers, verify that LOSS
LENGTH appears in the upper-left corner of the screen. If it
does not, press
A Change Test then select Loss/Length.
Step 2: Selecting a Fiber Type
Do the following on the tester you will use to initiate tests
(the main tester):
2-1
Press S; then press D Ta b to select the Cable tab.
2-2
Use LM to highlight FIBER TYPE; then press t.
2-3
Use LM to highlight the type of fiber you will test;
then press t to select the fiber type.
If the fiber type you want is not shown, press B More, select a FIBER GROUP; then highlight and select
a fiber type.
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Step 3: Configuring the Loss/Length Test
Do the following on the tester you will use to initiate tests
(the main tester) and on the remote tester where indicated:
3-1
From the SETUP screen, press E Tab to select the
Loss/Length tab.
3-2
Press t to see the available test limits.
3-3
Use LM to highlight Document only; then press
t to select the limit.
If Document only is not listed, press B More, select
Application, then highlight and select Document only.
3-4
Use LM to highlight REMOTE END SETUP; then
t.
press
3-5
Use LM to highlight Smart Remote; then press t.
If a message about setting the reference appears,
press BNo. You will set the reference in Step 4.
3-6
UseLM to highlight THIS UNIT; then press t.
3-9
Use LM to highlight Disabled; then press t.
3-10
On the remote unit’s Loss/Length tab set REMOTE END
SETUP to Smart Remote and THIS UNIT to Remote.
Step 4: Setting the Reference
4-1
Clean the tester's and source's OUTPUT connectors and
the reference test cord connectors.
4-2
Press F. Use LM to highlight Set Loss/Length
Reference; then press
4-3
Connect the main and remote testers as shown on the
SET REFERENCE screen and in Figure 2-3; then press
t.
t.
4-4
On the VIEW REFERENCE screen press C OK. (You do
not need to enter reference test cord lengths for this
tutorial.)
Make the connections for a Smart Remote mode test,
as shown in Figure 2-4. Connect the main unit to the
cabling end identified as END 1 on the Job tab.
5-2
Press T.
Step 6: Viewing the Results
The tester offers the following views of loss/length test
results:
6-1
The SUMMARY screen, shown when the test is
finished, tells you if the cabling passed or failed based
on the selected test limits.
6-2
To see more details about the cabling, press A View
Results.
See Chapter 6 for details on loss/length results.
Step 7: Saving the Results
Note
The tester saves Smart Remote test results in two
separate records. One record is used for each fiber.
7-1
Press s.
7-2
If the tester shows a text editing screen, press A Pick
ID to access the fiber ID list you configured.
7-3
The tester highlights the first unused ID in the
UNUSED AUTO SEQUENCE IDs list. Press s to save
the results from one fiber.
7-4
Press s again to save the results from the second
fiber, using the next ID in the list.
This concludes the tutorial on using the loss/length option.
See Chapter 6 for additional information on the loss/length
option.
2-20
Getting Started Testing Fiber
Tutorial: Running a Loss/Length Test
2
Figure 2-4. Smart Remote Mode Test Connections
ajt08f.eps
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Fiber ID Options
You can create or select fiber IDs as follows:
•
You can create an ID after you press s. You can
also highlight a used or unused ID in a list; then press
t to edit it into a new ID. The next time you press
s, the tester increments the last character of the ID
you created (the auto increment feature).
•
You can create a list of sequential fiber IDs by
configuring a template on the Job tab in Setup. Select
the IDs from the AUTO SEQ IDs list after you press
s.
•
You can create ID lists in LinkWare software; then
download them to the tester. Select the IDs from the
DOWNLOAD IDs list after you press
•
After you press s, you can use an ID already
assigned to a record stored in the current folder. This
lets you overwrite existing results or add new results to
an existing record. Select the ID from the IDs IN CURRENT FOLDER list after you press
s.
s.
Using the Auto Increment Feature
The auto increment feature increments the last
alphanumeric character in the fiber ID you enter. For
example, if you save a test with the ID “A0”, the tester
increments the ID to “A1” the next time you save a test. As
you save more tests, the ID increments from “A1” through
“A9”; then back to “A0”. Consecutive digits increment from
right to left, but other characters do not.
To use this feature, do the following:
1
Run a test; then press s.
2
Enter a fiber ID in the SAVE RESULT IN FIBER ID: box.
You may need to press A Edit ID to see this box.
3
Press s again.
4
The next time you press s, the incremented fiber
ID appears in the editing box. Press
the ID.
s again to use
2-22
Getting Started Testing Fiber
Fiber ID Options
2
Creating a List of Sequential IDs
The tester includes templates for creating a list of
sequential fiber IDs. Three of these templates meet the
ANSI/TIA/EIA-606-A standard for documenting cabling
installations, as summarized in the next section. A fourth
template lets you create your own ID pattern.
Letters and numbers in sequential IDs increment from right
to left. Special characters, accented letters, and matching
letters do not increment. For example, the following start
and stop IDs could be used for testing the cabling in two
rooms where each room has three cable drops:
Start ID: ROOM A DROP#1
Stop ID: ROOM B DROP#3
These IDs produce the following ID list:
ROOM A DROP#1
ROOM A DROP#2
ROOM A DROP#3
ROOM B DROP#1
ROOM B DROP#2
ROOM B DROP#3
To create a list of sequential IDs, do the following:
1Select AUTO SEQ TEMPLATE from the Job tab in Setup,
A Change Template; then select a template.
press
2Press
3Press B Edit Start or C Edit Stop to enter
D Default to transfer the pattern to the START
ID and STOP ID.
appropriate characters into the start and stop IDs. Press
s when you are finished editing each ID.
4To preview the list, press E Sample List.
5Press s when you are finished.
The sequential ID list is stored in the mainframe (not on the
memory card or in the module).
To use an ID from the list, do the following:
1Run a test; then press
2Press
3Highlight an ID; then press s.
C Auto Seq IDs to select the list. You may need
to press
A Pick ID first.
s.
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About ANSI/TIA/EIA-606-A Fiber IDs
The following sections give basic examples of the 606-A IDs.
For detailed information, including ID formats for other
elements in cabling installations, contact the TIA to
purchase a copy of the 606-A standard.
The examples use the following abbreviations:
•
f = floor number
•
s = telecom room letter
•
a = patch panel letter
•
n = For a horizontal link: port number
For a backbone: backbone cable letter or number
•
d = copper pair or fiber strand number in backbone
cable
•
b = building
Horizontal Link Identifier
Horizontal links run between telecommunications closets
and work areas.
Format: fs-an
Example: 11C-D32
The link tested was on floor 11 in telecom room C, patch
panel D, port 32.
Backbone Cable Identifier
Backbone cables run between telecommunication closets,
usually on different floors.
Format: fs1/fs2-n.d
Example: 01B/5C-D.10
The fiber tested is in the backbone cable that runs between
floor 1, telecom room B and floor 5, telecom room C. The
backbone cable is cable D. The fiber tested is fiber 10 in
backbone cable D.
Campus Cable Identifier
Campus cables are backbone cables that run between
buildings.
Format: [b1-f s1]/[b2-fs2]-n.d
Example: LBRY-01A/AUD-01A-5.16
The cable tested is in the backbone cable that runs between
the library (LBRY), floor 1, telecom room A and the
auditorium (AUD), floor 1, telecom room A. The backbone
cable is cable 5. The fiber tested is number 16 in backbone
cable 5.
2-24
Getting Started Testing Fiber
Fiber ID Options
2
Using Downloaded Fiber IDs
Use LinkWare software to create and download ID lists
from a PC to the tester.
Downloaded ID lists are associated with a folder name you
select when you download the list from a PC, but are saved
in the tester’s internal memory.
To use downloaded IDs, do the following:
1
Verify that the current folder has the same name as the
folder selected when the list was downloaded to the
tester. Change the current folder or create a new folder
with the correct name, if necessary.
2
Run a test; then press s.
3
Press DDownload IDs to select the list. You may
need to press A Pick ID first.
4Highlight an ID; then press
s.
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Solving Problems with Fiber ID Lists
Table 2-3 gives solutions to some typical problems you may
have with fiber ID lists.
Table 2-3. Solving Problems with Fiber ID Lists
ProblemSolutions
The ID sequence is invalid.Verify that the types of characters in each position match between the start and stop
IDs. For example, using the letter “O” as the third character in the start ID and the
number “0” as the third character in the end ID causes an error.
Verify that you are not trying to use accented characters as incrementing characters.
You may use accented characters in IDs, but they must match between the start and stop
IDs.
Verify that the start and stop IDs have the same numbers of characters.
Verify that the START and STOP IDs do not generate a sequence with more than 3000
IDs.
When you press s, you
cannot find the ID list.
2-26
After you press s, press A Pick ID; then press the appropriate softkey to see the
list.
You can access downloaded IDs only if the name of the current folder matches the
folder name selected when the list was downloaded from the PC. Downloaded ID lists
are associated with a folder name, but are saved in internal memory. Switch to the
correct folder or create a new folder with the correct name.
Adding Comments to Test Results
After you run a test, you can press D Edit Comment to
add a comment to the results. You can select predefined
comments or create a new comment.
The comment list is stored in the mainframe, not in the
module or on a memory card.
To edit or create a comment press
EDIT COMMENT screen.
To add a predefined comment to the list press D Pick
Comment on the EDIT COMMENT screen; then press A
New Comment.
To select a predefined comment press
on the EDIT COMMENT screen.
Press s when you finished editing or selecting a
comment.
E Edit Text on the
D Pick Comment
Getting Started Testing Fiber
Adding Comments to Test Results
2
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2-28
WWarning
Read the safety information at the beginning of
Chapter 2 before using the OTDR.
*
Chapter 3
Using the OTDR
Setting Up for OTDR Testing
For information on configuring the tester's job settings,
such as fiber IDs and folders for saving test results, see
“General Settings” in Chapter 2.
For information on setting user preferences, such as length
units and numeric formats, see “Setting User Preferences”
in Chapter 1.
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Cleaning the OTDR Connector
Use a dry, optical-grade wipe to clean the OTDR connector.
Figure 3-1 shows how to remove the OTDR adapter to
access the connector ferrule.
The OTDR port connection quality screen helps you
determine when the OTDR connector needs cleaning. See
page 3-13.
If the connector is very dirty, wipe the end of the ferrule
with an optical-grade wipe lightly moistened with fiber
optic solvent. Dry with a dry wipe.
3-2
ajt71f.eps
Figure 3-1. Cleaning the OTDR Connector
Using the OTDR
Setting Up for OTDR Testing
3
Selecting Auto or Manual OTDR Mode
Note
You should use Auto OTDR mode when certifying
cabling with the OTDR.
From the HOME screen, press
OTDR or Manual OTDR from the popup menu.
You can also switch between test modes by selecting Auto
OTDR or Manual OTDR from the FUNCTIONS menu.
In Auto OTDR mode, the tester automatically selects
settings based on the length and overall loss of the cabling.
This mode is the easiest to use, provides the most
comprehensive view of the events on the cabling, and is the
best choice for most applications.
Manual OTDR mode lets you change settings to optimize
the OTDR for displaying specific events. See “Using Manual
OTDR Mode” on page 3-45 for details.
Tip: To see the settings used for an OTDR test, press C
View Details on the OTDR SUMMARY screen; then press
AOTDR Settings. The settings used may be slightly
different from the nominal values selected on the OTDR
tab.
A Change Test. Select Auto
About Launch and Receive Fibers
Launch and receive fibers let the tester measure the loss
and reflectance of the first and last connectors in the
cabling, and include those connectors in ORL (optical return
loss) measurements. Without launch and receive fibers, no
backscatter is available before the first connector and after
the last, so the tester cannot measure the connectors’
characteristics.
If the first or last connection in the cabling is bad, and you
do not use launch and receive fibers, the OTDR test may
pass because it does include measurements from the bad
connection.
OVERALL LOSS and FIBER LENGTH include the loss and
length of the launch and receive fibers, unless you use the
launch fiber compensation function.
Fluke Networks recommends that you use launch and
receive fibers. You should also use launch/receive fiber
compensation to remove the effects of these fibers from
the OTDR measurements.
WCaution
For testing cabling with angled physical contact
(APC) connectors, use only launch/receive fibers
with APC connectors at the end connected to the
cabling. Other connector types will cause large
reflections that may invalidate your test results.
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Note
Avoid using hybrid patch cords to connect to the
cabling under test. Connect the launch and receive
fibers directly to the cabling under test, using a
launch fiber with the appropriate connectors. This
provides the best measurement of the connectors
at the ends of the cabling. Hybrid launch fibers
with various connector styles are available from
Fluke Networks.
Compensating for Launch and Receive Fibers
The launch fiber compensation function marks the end of
the launch fiber and the beginning of the receive fiber, if
used, on OTDR traces and labels these events in the event
table. It also removes these fibers’ losses, lengths, and
attenuation coefficients from overall OTDR results. The
losses of the connections at the launch and receive fibers
are not removed from the results.
Launch compensation also provides a more accurate ORL
(optical return loss) measurement, provided that the correct
backscatter coefficient for the fiber under test is entered on
the Cable tab in SETUP.
The compensation function does not affect ChannelMap
and real time trace results.
Types of Compensation
The tester offers three types of compensation:
•
Launch Only: Lets you compensate for a launch fiber.
•
Launch + Receive: Lets you compensate for a launch
fiber and a receive fiber.
•
Launch + Fiber + Receive: Lets you compensate for a
launch and receive fiber if you have forgotten to do so
before the receive fiber was taken to the other end of
the cabling.
Notes
Launch + Receive compensation usually provides
the most accurate measurements.
Avoid using Launch + Fiber + Receive
compensation on fibers longer than 8 km. Doing
so may degrade measurement accuracy.
Setting the Launch Fiber Compensation
1
Select the fiber type to be tested on the Cable tab in
Setup.
2
Press F; then select Set Launch Fiber
Compensation.
3
On the SET LAUNCH METHOD screen highlight the
type of compensation you want to do, but do not press
t.
3-4
4
Clean the tester's OTDR port and launch fiber
connectors.
5
Connect the launch fibers to the tester's OTDR port as
shown on the screen and in Figure 3-2, 3-3, or 3-4; then
press t.
6
The tester attempts to automatically identify the
launch and receive fiber ends based on the launch
method you selected. If necessary, you can change
these settings on the SET LAUNCH EVENTS screen, as
follows:
WCaution
Do not set the launch or receive event to a hidden
event. Do not set the receive event to an event
followed by a hidden event. Doing so may make
length and loss results unreliable.
Note
The tester might not identify a low-reflectance
connection, such as an angled physical contact
(APC) connection, as a launch/receive event. These
connections may show as loss events, which you
can manually select to be the launch/receive event.
•
For Launch Only compensation, highlight the event
that is the end of the launch fiber; then press B.
Using the OTDR
Setting Up for OTDR Testing
•
For Launch + Receive compensation, highlight the
event that is the end of the launch fiber and the
beginning of the receive fiber; then press
as necessary to move or set the launch and receive
fibers.
•
For Launch + Fiber + Receive compensation, highlight
the event that is the end of the launch fiber; then press
B and C
3
B Set Launch or B Move Launch. Next, highlight
the event that is the beginning of the receive fiber;
then press
To see where the markers are set on the trace, press
C Set Receive or C Move Receive.
A View Trace.
7
Press s; then press C OK.
Launch Fiber Compensation is enabled after you
perform the compensation function.
To view the launch compensation settings, press F,
select Set Launch Fiber Compensation; then press
Settings.
You should run the compensation function again if you
start using a different launch or receive fiber.
Figure 3-5 shows an example of an OTDR trace with launch
and receive markers enabled.
Measurement is
relative to the end
of the launch fiber
3-8
Receive fiber
length
Beginning of
receive fiber
ajt28f.eps
Figure 3-5. OTDR Trace with Launch Compensation Enabled
Using the OTDR
Setting Up for OTDR Testing
3
Settings for OTDR Tests
Table 3-1 describes the settings that apply to OTDR tests.
Table 3-1. Settings for OTDR Tests
SETUP TabSettingDescription
Job tabJob settingsBefore you run a test you will save, you may want to set the job, fiber ID, and
cabling end information. These settings are saved with test results to identify
the job site, the cabling tested, and the test direction. See Chapter 2 foGr
details.
Cable tabFIBER TYPESelect a fiber type that is appropriate for the type you will test. You can select
factory-installed fiber types or custom types, which you configure with the Edit Custom Test Limit function in FUNCTIONS. See Chapter 10 for information on
creating custom fiber types.
Select a fiber type before selecting a test limit. The fiber type determines
which test limits are available.
Note
-continued-
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Table 3-1. Settings for OTDR Tests (cont.)
SETUP TabSettingDescription
Cable tabMANUAL CABLE
SETTINGS
n
BACKSCATTER
* For singlemode modules, the 30 km range and an n value greater than 1.52 cause an error. These settings produce propagation times that
are beyond the tester’s range.
When MANUAL CABLE SETTINGS is disabled, the n and BACKSCATTER values
depend on the selected fiber type. When the MANUAL CABLE SETTINGS is
enabled, the tester enters default values that you can change manually.
The n value is the index of refraction. Index of refraction is used to calculate
length. The default n values defined in the fiber types are suitable for most
applications. Minor differences between the default n and a fiber's actual n
usually do not make enough difference in length to fail a fiber.
Increasing nBACKSCATTER is the
light the fiber reflects back to the OTDR (using a 1 ns pulse). This value is used
to calculate event reflectance for OTDR tests.
Enter the backscatter coefficient of the fiber under test, if known. This value is
specified by many fiber manufacturers.
decreases measured length.*
backscatter coefficient, which indicates the amount of
3-10
Using the OTDR
Setting Up for OTDR Testing
Table 3-1. Settings for OTDR Tests (cont.)
SETUP TabSettingDescription
OTDR tabTEST LIMITThe tester compares the OTDR test results to the selected test limit to produce
PASS/FAIL results. You can select factory-installed limits or custom limits, which
you configure with the Edit Custom Test Limit function in FUNCTIONS. See
Chapter 10 for information on creating custom limits.
Note
Select a fiber type before selecting a test limit. The fiber type determines
which test limits are available.
3
OTDR ta
bWAVELENGTHYou can test cabling at one or all the wavelengths supported by the installed
module and the selected test limit.
Note
If you select the dual-wavelength setting, be sure to select a fiber type and
test limit that supports both wavelengths.
LAUNCH
COMPENSA
OTDR PLOT GRIDEnables or disables the grid
TION
Enables or disables launch fiber compensation. See Set Launch Fiber
Compensation below.
on the OTDR trace.
-continued-
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Table 3-1. Settings for OTDR Tests (cont.)
SETUP TabSettingDescription
OTDR tabRANGE
RESOLUTION
(OFTM-56xxB)
PULSE WIDTH
OFTM-57xx:
AVERAGING TIME
LOSS THRESHOLD
On
Fu
nctions
menu
Set Launch Fiber
Compensation
3-12
These settings apply only to Manual OTDR mode. See “Using Manual OTDR
Mode” on page 3-45 for details.
To see the settings used for an A
OTDR SUMMARY screen; then press
Compensating for the launch fiber marks the end of the launch fiber and the
beginning of the receive fiber (if used) on the OTDR trace and removes these
fibers’ losses, lengths, and attenuation coefficients from overall OTDR results.
See “Compensating for Launch and Receive Fibers” on page 3-4.
uto OTDR test, press C View Details on the
A OTDR Settings.
OTDR Connection Quality
When you run an OTDR test, the tester determines the
quality of OTDR port connection (Figure 3-6).
If the gauge is in the Poor range, you should clean the
OTDR port and the fiber connector. Use a video microscope,
such as the FiberInspector video probe, to inspect the port
and fiber connector for scratches and other damage. If a
connector on the tester is damaged, contact Fluke
Networks for service information.
A poor OTDR connection increases the connector’s
deadzone, as shown in Figure 3-7. The deadzone can hide
faults near the OTDR connector.
A poor connection also decreases the light available for
testing the fiber. The weakened test signal causes a noisier
trace, poor event detection, and decreased dynamic range.
The port connection quality rating is saved with OTDR
result details.
Using the OTDR
OTDR Connection Quality
Figure 3-6. OTDR Port Connection Quality Gauge
3
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3-14
Figure 3-7. Traces Showing Good and Bad OTDR Connections
ajt34f.eps
Progress Screen for Extended Test Times (OFTM-573x Modules)
Progress Screen for Extended Test
Times (OFTM-573x Modules)
When the test time exceeds 15 seconds, a tester with an
OFTM-573x module shows the developing trace along with
the progress indicator. Figure 3-8 shows an example of this
screen. The tester updates the trace as measurement
averaging proceeds.
To end a Manual OTDR test and see the results after the
next trace update, press
wavelength tests, press
wavelength. This softkey is not available for Auto OTDR
tests.
C Stop Averaging. For dual-
C twice –once for each
Using the OTDR
3
ajt29f.eps
Figure 3-8. Progress Screen for Extended Test Times
(OFTM-573x Modules)
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Running the OTDR Test
Figure 3-9 shows the equipment needed for OTDR tests.
To run the OTDR test do the following:
1
Verify that the settings described in Table 3-1 are
appropriate.
2
Select Auto OTDR mode: On the HOME screen, press
A Change Test; then select Auto OTDR.
A
Tester with OFTM-56xxB or OFTM-57xx module
B
Memory card (optional)
C
Spare battery pack (optional)
D
AC adapter with line cord (optional)
3
Clean the connectors on the launch fiber and the fiber
to be tested.
4
Connect to the tester’s OTDR port to the cabling as
shown in Figure 3-10, 3-11, or 3-12.
5
Press T to start the OTDR test.
6
To save the results, press s, select or create a fiber
ID; then press s again.
E
Launch fiber and receive fibers. Match the fiber to be
tested. Match cable connectors at one end when
possible.
F
Fiber cleaning supplies
ajt42f.eps
3-16
Figure 3-9. Equipment for OTDR Tests
Using the OTDR
Running the OTDR Test
3
Figure 3-10. Connecting the OTDR to Installed Fiber (no receive fiber)
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3-18
Figure 3-11. Connecting the OTDR to Installed Fiber (with receive fiber)
ajt01f.eps
Using the OTDR
Running the OTDR Test
3
Figure 3-12. Connecting the OTDR to Spooled Cable
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Looking at OTDR Test Results
The tester offers three different views of OTDR test results:
a summary, an event table, and an OTDR trace.
Table 3-2. OTDR SUMMARY Screen Features
ItemDescription
PASS/FAILPASS: All test results are within limits.
FAIL: One or more test result exceeds the limits. See the OTDR trace or the event table for additional
information.
WARNINGThe value could not be reliably determined. These values are usually preceded by a "<" or ">" (less
than or greater than) symbol. This may occur if the fiber is too long, the signal is weak, or events are
too close together to distinguish losses. In many cases, the OTDR DETAILS screens show causes of the
warning. Press
FIBER LENGTHThe length of the fiber in the cabling. If the measured length seems wrong, check the index of
refraction on the Cable tab in Setup. The length does not include launch and receive fibers if launch
fiber compensation is enabled.
Tip: In some cable types, some or all of the fibers may be longer than the cable jacket and some fibers
may be longer than others in the same cable. To adjust the length measurements to represent cable
jacket length, change the index of refraction until the measured length matches the jacket length.
C View Details to see these screens.
Reading the SUMMARY Screen
The SUMMARY screen, which appears when the test is
finished, is described in Table 3-2.
3-20
Table 3-2. OTDR Summary Screen Features (cont.)
ItemDescription
Using the OTDR
Looking at OTDR Test Results
3
OVERALL LOSS
LARGEST EVENT
CView Details softkey
The end-to-end loss of the cabling, excluding the OTDR connection and the end event. The
loss does not include launch and receive fibers if launch and receive fiber compensation
are enabled.
Note that OVERALL LOSS does not include the losses of the first and last connectors in the
cabling if you did not use launch and receive fiber compensation.
If the test ran at two wavelengths, the highest loss of the two wavelengths is reported.
The largest loss event on the cabling.
Lets you see the overall results and event results along with the test limits. These results
include values measured by the selected test limit but not shown on other OTDR screens,
such as segment attenuation coefficients, optical return loss, and reflectance. Use the
softkeys on the OTDR DETAILS screens to switch between overall results details and event
details.
See “OTDR Details Screens” on page 3-37 or press
H for information about OTDR details.
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OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Reading the OTDR Trace
To see the OTDR trace, press A View Trace from the
OTDR SUMMARY screen or EVENT TABLE.
Figure 3-13 describes the readouts and navigational
features on the OTDR screen. Figure 3-14 describes the
features of a typical OTDR trace.
A
B
C
D
E
HIJ
G
F
ajt16f.eps
3-22
A
Wavelength for the trace and the End setting on the Job
tab in SETUP. If the test ran at two wavelengths, press
A to switch wavelengths. You can set the wavelengths
on the OTDR tab in Setup.
B
Magnification factors for the trace. See “Zooming the
Trace” on page 3-27.
C
The distance (m or ft) and the power loss (dB) between
the cursor and the measurement marker (
D
OTDR plot grid. You can enable or disable the grid on
the OTDR tab in SETUP.
E
PASS/FAIL status appears if the cursor is on an event. The
status may refer to the event or the fiber segment
before the event. If the event looks ok, press C View Details from the EVENT TABLE screen or the SUMMARY
screen to see results for the segment.
F
Press E to change the arrow keys’ function from
moving the cursor to zooming to moving the trace if
trace overlay is active (see page 3-39). The navigational
cue above the softkey labels describes the arrow keys’
current function.
M).
Using the OTDR
Looking at OTDR Test Results
G
Key for setting and clearing the measurement cursor.
See “Using the Measurement Cursor” on page 3-26.
H
Moves the cursor to the next event on the trace. If you
K to move the cursor, C changes to Previous
use
Event and moves the cursor to the previous event.
I
Displays the event table.
J
For dual-wavelength tests, press A to switch
wavelengths.
K
Event information appears if the cursor is on an event.
Otherwise, the distance to the cursor is shown.
L
Scale for the distance along the cabling under test.
Tip: The distance scale represents the distance along the
fiber, which may be different from the distance
along the cable jacket. To adjust the length
measurements to represent cable jacket length,
change the index of refraction until the measured
length matches the jacket length.
M
Measurement marker and cursor. See “Using the
Measurement Cursor” on page 3-26.
N
Decibel scale for the OTDR backscatter.
3
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OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
1
2
5
6
3-24
3
4
7
Figure 3-14. Typical OTDR Trace Features
ajt15f.eps
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