Fluke OF-500-10, OF-500-02, OF-500-03, OF-500-13, OF-500-15 Technical Reference Handbook

...
OF-500 OptiFiber®
Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
September 2002, Rev. 4 6/06
© 2002-2006 Fluke Corporation. All rights reserved. All product names are trademarks of their respective companies.
LIMITED WARRANTY AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
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 OF 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

Table of Contents

Chapter Title Page
1 Getting Acquainted ...................................................................................................... 1-1
Overview of Features.................................................................................................... 1-1
Registration................................................................................................................... 1-2
Contacting Fluke Networks .......................................................................................... 1-3
Unpacking ..................................................................................................................... 1-3
Model OF-500-01...................................................................................................... 1-3
Model OF-500-02...................................................................................................... 1-4
Model OF-500-03...................................................................................................... 1-4
Model OF-500-10...................................................................................................... 1-5
Model OF-500-13...................................................................................................... 1-5
Model OF-500-15...................................................................................................... 1-6
Model OF-500-35...................................................................................................... 1-6
Model OF-500-45...................................................................................................... 1-7
Powering the Tester...................................................................................................... 1-8
Charging the Battery ............................................................................................... 1-8
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Technical Reference Handbook
2 Getting Started Testing Fiber...................................................................................... 2-1
Checking the Battery Status.................................................................................... 1-8
Changing the Language............................................................................................... 1-10
Removing and Installing the Module.......................................................................... 1-10
Verifying Operation ..................................................................................................... 1-10
Basic Features ............................................................................................................... 1-12
Front Panel Features................................................................................................ 1-12
Side and Top Panel Features ................................................................................... 1-14
The HOME Screen .................................................................................................... 1-16
Using the Setup Menus ........................................................................................... 1-18
Checking the Software and Hardware Versions .................................................... 1-20
Using the Online Help ............................................................................................. 1-20
Overview of Memory Features................................................................................ 1-21
Using the Memory Card...................................................................................... 1-21
Using the Internal Memory ................................................................................ 1-22
Using an External Keyboard.................................................................................... 1-22
Setting User Preferences .............................................................................................. 1-24
Changing the Date, Time, and Numeric Formats................................................... 1-24
Changing the Length Units..................................................................................... 1-24
Enabling or Disabling the Save Warning................................................................ 1-24
Adjusting the Display Brightness ............................................................................ 1-24
Using the Power Down Timer ................................................................................. 1-25
Enabling or Disabling the Beeper........................................................................... 1-25
Changing the Logo on the HOME Screen .............................................................. 1-26
Enabling Software Options.......................................................................................... 1-27
About LinkWare and LinkWare Stats Software.......................................................... 1-27
Safety Information ....................................................................................................... 2-1
ii
Contents
Cleaning and Inspecting Fiber Connectors and Adapters........................................... 2-4
Testing Your Reference Test Cords and Launch Fiber................................................. 2-5
General Test Settings.................................................................................................... 2-6
Selecting a Test Mode.............................................................................................. 2-6
Selecting a Fiber Type.............................................................................................. 2-6
Viewing Fiber Properties ......................................................................................... 2-7
Selecting a Test Limit ............................................................................................... 2-7
Viewing Test Limits .................................................................................................. 2-8
If the Test Limit or Fiber Type is Not Valid with the Test....................................... 2-8
Entering Job Settings............................................................................................... 2-8
Changing the Index of Refraction........................................................................... 2-10
Tutorial: Preparing to Save Tests.................................................................................. 2-11
Step 1: Creating a List of Sequential Fiber IDs........................................................ 2-11
Step 2: Setting Up a Job Folder ............................................................................... 2-12
Step 3: Entering the Operator Name ...................................................................... 2-12
Step 4: Identifying the Cabling Ends....................................................................... 2-12
Step 5: Setting the Save Warning............................................................................ 2-12
Tutorial: Running an OTDR Test................................................................................... 2-14
Required Equipment................................................................................................ 2-14
Step 1: Selecting Auto OTDR Mode ........................................................................ 2-15
Step 2: Selecting a Fiber Type and Test Limit ......................................................... 2-15
Step 3: Selecting a Wavelength............................................................................... 2-15
Step 4: Testing in the First Direction....................................................................... 2-15
Step 5: Viewing the Results ..................................................................................... 2-17
Step 5: Viewing the Results ..................................................................................... 2-17
Step 6: Saving Results from the First Direction....................................................... 2-17
Step 7: Testing in the Second Direction.................................................................. 2-17
Step 8: Saving Results from the Second Direction.................................................. 2-17
(continued)
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Technical Reference Handbook
3 Using the OTDR ............................................................................................................ 3-1
Tutorial: Running a Loss/Length Test .......................................................................... 2-18
Required Equipment................................................................................................ 2-18
Step 1: Selecting Loss/Length Test Mode................................................................ 2-18
Step 2: Selecting a Fiber Type ................................................................................. 2-18
Step 3: Configuring the Loss/Length Test............................................................... 2-19
Step 4: Setting the Reference ................................................................................. 2-19
Step 5: Running the Test ......................................................................................... 2-21
Step 6: Viewing the Results..................................................................................... 2-21
Step 7: Saving the Results........................................................................................ 2-21
Fiber ID Options............................................................................................................ 2-23
Using the Auto Increment Feature ......................................................................... 2-23
Creating a List of Sequential IDs............................................................................. 2-24
About ANSI/TIA/EIA-606-A Fiber IDs ....................................................................... 2-25
Horizontal Link Identifier................................................................................... 2-25
Backbone Cable Identifier .................................................................................. 2-25
Campus Cable Identifier ..................................................................................... 2-26
Using Downloaded Fiber IDs................................................................................... 2-26
Solving Problems with Fiber ID Lists ....................................................................... 2-26
Adding Comments to Test Results............................................................................... 2-28
Setting Up for OTDR Testing ....................................................................................... 3-1
Cleaning the OTDR Connector................................................................................ 3-2
Selecting Auto or Manual OTDR Mode.................................................................. 3-3
About Launch and Receive Fibers........................................................................... 3-3
Compensating for Launch and Receive Fibers................................................... 3-4
Types of Compensation ...................................................................................... 3-4
Setting the Launch Fiber Compensation ........................................................... 3-5
iv
Contents
Settings for OTDR Tests ........................................................................................... 3-10
OTDR Connection Quality ............................................................................................ 3-14
Progress Screen for Extended Test Times (OFTM-573x Modules)............................... 3-16
Running the OTDR Test ................................................................................................ 3-17
Looking at OTDR Test Results....................................................................................... 3-22
Reading the SUMMARY Screen............................................................................... 3-22
Reading the OTDR Trace.......................................................................................... 3-24
Using the Measurement Cursor............................................................................... 3-28
Zooming the Trace................................................................................................... 3-29
Reading the Event Table.......................................................................................... 3-30
Event Types.......................................................................................................... 3-32
Sorting Events...................................................................................................... 3-37
OTDR DETAILS Screens............................................................................................. 3-38
Warning Messages .............................................................................................. 3-38
Attenuation Coefficient...................................................................................... 3-38
ORL (Optical Return Loss).................................................................................... 3-38
Segment Attenuation Coefficient ...................................................................... 3-38
Reflectance .......................................................................................................... 3-38
Bi-Directional Testing ................................................................................................... 3-39
Comparing OTDR Traces............................................................................................... 3-39
Using the Real Time Trace ............................................................................................ 3-44
Using Manual OTDR Mode........................................................................................... 3-46
Diagnosing OTDR Test Failures .................................................................................... 3-51
4 Using the ChannelMap Function ................................................................................. 4-1
Running the Test........................................................................................................... 4-1
ChannelMap Diagram Features.................................................................................... 4-4
(continued)
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Technical Reference Handbook
5 Using the FiberInspector Option................................................................................. 5-1
6 Using the Loss/Length Option..................................................................................... 6-1
Using the Probe............................................................................................................ 5-2
FiberInspector Image Examples ................................................................................... 5-6
Getting a Good Image.................................................................................................. 5-7
Using the Core Scale..................................................................................................... 5-8
Overview of Features ................................................................................................... 6-1
About Smart Remotes .................................................................................................. 6-2
Changing the Connector Adapter ............................................................................... 6-2
Cleaning the Loss/Length Connectors ......................................................................... 6-5
Cleaning the OUTPUT Connector............................................................................ 6-5
Cleaning the INPUT Connector ............................................................................... 6-5
Verifying Operation ..................................................................................................... 6-6
Loss/Length Test Settings ............................................................................................. 6-6
About Method B Connections ..................................................................................... 6-13
About Setting the Reference....................................................................................... 6-13
Using Mandrels for Testing Multimode Fiber............................................................. 6-15
Testing in Smart Remote Mode................................................................................... 6-17
Testing in Smart Remote Mode................................................................................... 6-17
Setting the Reference in Smart Remote Mode ...................................................... 6-18
Running the Test in Smart Remote Mode.............................................................. 6-20
Smart Remote Mode Test Results ........................................................................... 6-22
Testing in Loopback Mode........................................................................................... 6-24
Setting the Reference in Loopback Mode.............................................................. 6-26
Running the Test in Loopback Mode...................................................................... 6-28
Loopback Mode Test Results................................................................................... 6-28
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Contents
Testing in Far End Source Mode................................................................................... 6-32
Required Equipment................................................................................................ 6-32
Setting the Reference in Far End Source Mode...................................................... 6-34
Running the Test in Far End Source Mode ............................................................. 6-36
Using Auto Wavelength Detection with SimpliFiber Sources
(OFTM-5731 and OFTM-5732 Modules) .................................................................. 6-36
Far End Source Mode Test Results........................................................................... 6-38
Bi-Directional Testing ................................................................................................... 6-40
Bi-Directional Testing in Smart Remote or Loopback Mode.................................. 6-40
Bi-Directional Testing in Far End Source Mode...................................................... 6-40
Diagnosing Loss/Length Test Failures .......................................................................... 6-40
Finding Connections with FindFiber ............................................................................ 6-43
Using FindFiber in Smart Remote Mode................................................................. 6-43
Using FindFiber in Loopback Mode......................................................................... 6-46
7 Using the Visual Fault Locator ..................................................................................... 7-1
Visual Fault Locator Applications................................................................................. 7-1
Using the VFL ................................................................................................................ 7-2
8 Using the Power Meter Option.................................................................................... 8-1
Running the Test........................................................................................................... 8-2
Using Auto Wavelength Detection with SimpliFiber Sources
(OFTM-5731 and OFTM-5732 Modules) .................................................................. 8-2
Power Meter Results ................................................................................................ 8-5
If the Power Reading is Low......................................................................................... 8-6
9 Memory Functions........................................................................................................ 9-1
About Saving Tests........................................................................................................ 9-1
(continued)
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Technical Reference Handbook
10 Creating Custom Fiber Types and Test Limits ............................................................ 10-1
11 Maintenance and Specifications ................................................................................. 11-1
Memory Capacity and Card Sizes Supported .............................................................. 9-2
Formatting a Memory Card ......................................................................................... 9-2
Memory Card Care ....................................................................................................... 9-4
Reviewing and Managing Saved Records ................................................................... 9-4
About Memory Card Folders........................................................................................ 9-7
Changing or Creating Folders ................................................................................. 9-7
Deleting Folders....................................................................................................... 9-7
Viewing Folders on a PC.......................................................................................... 9-8
Creating Custom Fiber Types ....................................................................................... 10-1
Creating Custom Test Limits ........................................................................................ 10-4
Selecting a Custom Limit.............................................................................................. 10-8
If the Limit or Fiber Type is Not Valid.......................................................................... 10-8
Maintenance................................................................................................................. 11-1
Updating the Tester’s Software .............................................................................. 11-2
Updating via the USB or Serial Port................................................................... 11-3
Updating via a Memory Card Created with LinkWare...................................... 11-3
Optical Connector Care ........................................................................................... 11-5
Replacing Reference Test Cords and Launch Fibers............................................... 11-5
Replacing the Battery.............................................................................................. 11-5
Cleaning ................................................................................................................... 11-6
Storage.......................................................................................................................... 11-6
Calibration .................................................................................................................... 11-6
If Something Seems Wrong ......................................................................................... 11-7
Getting Help ............................................................................................................ 11-7
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Contents
Options and Accessories ............................................................................................... 11-10
Specifications................................................................................................................. 11-17
Environmental and Regulatory Specifications........................................................ 11-17
OTDR Specifications for OFTM-561xB Multimode Modules................................... 11-18
OTDR Specifications for OFTM-573x Singlemode Modules.................................... 11-21
Power Meter Specifications ..................................................................................... 11-25
Loss/Length Specifications ....................................................................................... 11-27
Power........................................................................................................................ 11-32
Traceable Calibration Period ................................................................................... 11-32
Certifications and Compliance................................................................................. 11-32
Memory for Test Results .......................................................................................... 11-32
Serial Interfaces........................................................................................................ 11-33
Keyboard Port .......................................................................................................... 11-34
Video Port for FiberInspector Probe ....................................................................... 11-34
Dimensions (with module and battery installed) ................................................... 11-34
Weight (with module and battery installed).......................................................... 11-34
Display ...................................................................................................................... 11-34
Fan ............................................................................................................................ 11-34
FiberInspector Probe Specifications ........................................................................ 11-35
Appendices
A Test Method Reference Tables.............................................................................. A-1
B Loss Test Methods.................................................................................................. B-1
C Common Causes of Fiber Link Failures ................................................................. C-1
Index
(continued)
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Technical Reference Handbook
x

List of Tables

Table Title Page
2-1. International Electrical Symbols .......................................................................................... 2-1
2-2. Job Settings .......................................................................................................................... 2-9
2-3. Solving Problems with Fiber ID Lists.................................................................................... 2-27
3-1. Settings for OTDR Tests ....................................................................................................... 3-10
3-2. OTDR SUMMARY Screen Features....................................................................................... 3-22
3-3. Event Table Features............................................................................................................ 3-30
3-4. Event Types........................................................................................................................... 3-32
3-5. Manual OTDR Settings......................................................................................................... 3-46
3-6. Diagnosing OTDR Test Failures ........................................................................................... 3-51
5-1. Getting a Good FiberInspector Image................................................................................. 5-8
6-1. Loss/Length Test Settings..................................................................................................... 6-6
6-2. Typical Reference Values ..................................................................................................... 6-14
6-3. TIA/EIA-568-B.1 and ISO/IEC TR 14763-3 Mandrel Requirements ...................................... 6-15
6-4. Smart Remote Mode SUMMARY Screen Features.............................................................. 6-22
6-5. Smart Remote Mode RESULTS Screen Features.................................................................. 6-23
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Technical Reference Handbook
6-6. Loopback Mode SUMMARY Screen Features..................................................................... 6-30
6-7. Loopback Mode RESULTS Screen Features......................................................................... 6-31
6-8. Far End Source Mode SUMMARY Screen Features ............................................................ 6-38
6-9. Far End Source Mode RESULTS Screen Features ................................................................ 6-39
6-10. Diagnosing Loss/Length Test Failures................................................................................. 6-41
6-11. Main Tester Results for FindFiber Test (Smart Remote Mode).......................................... 6-44
9-1. Memory Status Screen Features.......................................................................................... 9-3
9-2. Record Viewing and Management Functions.................................................................... 9-5
10-1. Fiber Property Settings........................................................................................................ 10-3
10-2. Custom Limit Settings for OTDR Tests ................................................................................ 10-6
10-3. Custom Limit Settings for Loss/Length Tests...................................................................... 10-7
11-1. Troubleshooting the Tester................................................................................................. 11-8
11-2. Options................................................................................................................................. 11-10
11-3. Accessories ........................................................................................................................... 11-11
11-4. RS-232 Interface Cable Connections ................................................................................... 11-33
11-5. 9-to-25-Pin Adapter............................................................................................................. 11-34
A-1. Test Method Names............................................................................................................. A-1
A-2. Test Methods Required by Standards................................................................................. A-2
C-1. Fiber Failure Survey Results................................................................................................. C-1
xii

List of Figures

Figure Title Page
1-1. Battery Pack Features........................................................................................................... 1-9
1-2. Removing the Module ......................................................................................................... 1-11
1-3. Front Panel Features ............................................................................................................ 1-12
1-4. Side and Top Panel Features ............................................................................................... 1-14
1-5. Home Screen for OTDR with Loss/Length Option .............................................................. 1-16
1-6. The SETUP Screen ................................................................................................................. 1-18
1-7. The Setup Menus ................................................................................................................. 1-19
1-8. Inserting and Removing the Memory Card ........................................................................ 1-22
1-9. Using an External Keyboard................................................................................................ 1-23
2-1. Using the Text Editing Screen ............................................................................................. 2-13
2-2. Typical OTDR Connections and Trace Features .................................................................. 2-16
2-3. Smart Remote Mode Reference Connections..................................................................... 2-20
2-4. Smart Remote Mode Test Connections............................................................................... 2-22
3-1. Cleaning the OTDR Connector ............................................................................................ 3-2
3-2. Launch Only Compensation Connections ........................................................................... 3-7
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Technical Reference Handbook
3-3. Launch + Receive Compensation Connections................................................................... 3-7
3-4. Launch + Fiber + Receive Compensation Connections ...................................................... 3-8
3-5. OTDR Trace with Launch Compensation Enabled ............................................................. 3-9
3-7. Traces Showing Good and Bad OTDR Connections ........................................................... 3-15
3-8. OFTM-573x Progress Screen for Extended Test Times ....................................................... 3-16
3-9. Equipment for OTDR Tests .................................................................................................. 3-17
3-10. Connecting the OTDR to Installed Fiber (no receive fiber) ............................................... 3-19
3-11. Connecting the OTDR to Installed Fiber (with receive fiber) ............................................ 3-20
3-12. Connecting the OTDR to Spooled Cable ............................................................................ 3-21
3-13. OTDR Trace Screen (launch compensation disabled)......................................................... 3-24
3-14. Typical OTDR Trace Features............................................................................................... 3-26
3-15. OTDR Functions Menu......................................................................................................... 3-41
3-16. Comparing OTDR Traces...................................................................................................... 3-42
4-1. Equipment for ChannelMap Tests ...................................................................................... 4-2
4-2. ChannelMap Test Connections ........................................................................................... 4-3
4-3. ChannelMap Diagram Features .......................................................................................... 4-4
5-1. Equipment for FiberInspector Tests.................................................................................... 5-3
5-2. Using the FiberInspector Probe........................................................................................... 5-4
5-3. FiberInspector Screen .......................................................................................................... 5-5
5-4. FiberInspector Image Examples .......................................................................................... 5-7
5-5. FiberInspector Core Scale (all rings shown)........................................................................ 5-8
6-1. SC, ST, LC, and FC Connector Adapters .............................................................................. 6-3
6-2. Changing the Connector Adapter ...................................................................................... 6-4
6-3. Example of How to Determine the NUMBER OF ADAPTERS Setting................................ 6-11
6-4. Wrapping a Reference Test Cord Around a Mandrel........................................................ 6-16
6-5. Equipment for Testing in Smart Remote Mode................................................................. 6-17
6-6. Smart Remote Mode Reference Connections (Method B)................................................. 6-19
6-7. Smart Remote Mode Test Connections (Method B) .......................................................... 6-21
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Contents
6-8. Equipment for Testing in Loopback Mode......................................................................... 6-25
6-9. Loopback Mode Reference Connections (Method B)......................................................... 6-27
6-10. Loopback Mode Test Connections (Method B) .................................................................. 6-29
6-11. Equipment for Testing in Far End Source Mode ................................................................ 6-33
6-12. Far End Source Mode Reference Connections (Method B)................................................ 6-35
6-13. Far End Source Mode Test Connections (Method B).......................................................... 6-37
6-14. Equipment for Using FindFiber in Smart Remote Mode.................................................... 6-43
6-15. Using FindFiber in Smart Remote Mode ............................................................................. 6-45
6-16. Equipment for Using FindFiber in Loopback Mode ........................................................... 6-46
6-17. Using FindFiber in Loopback Mode..................................................................................... 6-47
7-1. Equipment for Using the Visual Fault Locator ................................................................... 7-2
7-2. Using the Visual Fault Locator............................................................................................. 7-4
8-1. Equipment for Power Meter Tests ...................................................................................... 8-3
8-2. Connections for Monitoring Optical Power ....................................................................... 8-4
8-3. The Power Meter Screen...................................................................................................... 8-5
10-1. LIMIT TABLE EDITOR Screen ................................................................................................ 10-5
11-1. Event and Attenuation Deadzone Measurement Methods............................................... 11-22
B-1. Method A/A.2 Reference and Test Connections (singlemode shown).............................. B-3
B-2. Method B/A.1 Reference and Test Connections (singlemode shown)............................... B-5
B-3. Method C/A.3 Reference and Test Connections (singlemode shown)............................... B-7
B-4. Modified Method B: Smart Remote Mode Reference Connections.................................. B-9
B-5. Modified Method B: Smart Remote Mode Test Connections............................................ B-10
B-6. Alternate Method Reference and Test Connections for a Hybrid Link
(singlemode shown)............................................................................................................. B-12
B-7. Alternate Method Test Connections for a Link with MT-RJ Connectors
(singlemode shown)............................................................................................................. B-13
(continued)
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xvi
Chapter 1

Getting Acquainted

Note
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
of the connectors and segment lengths in a channel.
Optional FiberInspector
inspect fiber endfaces and save the images.
function provides an intuitive diagram
Video Probe lets you
1-1
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
Optional modules add visual fault locator
(OFTM-57xx only), power meter, and loss/length test set functions to the standard OTDR.
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
PC and create professional-quality test reports. The LinkWare Stats option generates browsable, graphical reports of cable test statistics.
software lets you upload test results to a

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.
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 3044 1277
Canada: 1-800-363-5853
Europe: +44-(0)1923-281-300
Hong Kong: 852 2721-3228
Japan: 03-3434-0510
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
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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
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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),
100 m , SC/SC
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 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
Getting Acquainted
Unpacking 1
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
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
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OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook

Powering the Tester

*
W
Warning
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.
Press I to turn the tester on.

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
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Getting Acquainted
Powering the Tester 1
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Figure 1-1. Battery Pack Features
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Changing the Language

To change the tester’s language, do the following:
1 Press
2 Press
3 Press
4 Use ML to select the desired language; then press
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.
S.
N once to select the System tab.
L to select LANGUAGE; then press t.
t.

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.
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Getting Acquainted
Verifying Operation 1
ajt56f.eps
Figure 1-2. Removing the Module
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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
F1
F2
F3
SETUP
FUNCTIONS
FIBER
INSPECTOR
HELP
TEST
K
J
I
Figure 1-3. Front Panel Features
H
F4 F5
ENTER
OPTIFIBER
SAVE
VIEW
RECORDS
EXIT
G
F
E
B
C
D
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Basic Features 1
A
LCD display with backlight and adjustable brightness.
B s: Saves test results on the removable memory
card or in internal memory.
I H: Shows a help topic related to the current screen.
To see the help index, press
H again.
J I: On/off key.
C v: Shows the test records saved on the memory
card or in internal memory.
D K N L 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 from the HOME screen or select a test from the FUNCTIONS menu.
A Change Test
Figure 1-3. Front Panel Features (cont.)
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 A B C D E: The five softkeys provide
functions related to the current screen. The current functions are shown on the screen above the keys.
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Side and Top Panel Features

Figure 1-4 describes the tester’s connectors and other features on the side and top panels.
Figure 1-4. Side and Top Panel Features
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Getting Acquainted
Basic Features 1
I
A Connector for the ac adapter. The LED turns on when the
adapter is connected to ac power.
OFTM-57xx: Connector for the visual fault locator.
J OTDR connector adapter (SC is standard). The LED
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.
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.
*
W
Never look directly into optical connectors. Some sources produce invisible radiation that can permanently damage your eyes.
Warning
M Laser safety label (shown below).
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.
Figure 1-4. Side and Top Panel Features (cont.)
CAUTION
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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
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Getting Acquainted
Basic Features 1
A
Model number of the installed module.
B The current date and time.
I Action prompts. For most screens, this area prompts
you on what keys to press.
J Important test and job settings. To change these
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 F; then select Battery Status.
E Press E to see the hardware and software versions and
calibration dates for the tester and the installed module.
F Press D VFL to activate the visual fault locator.
settings, use KLMNto highlight a setting; then
t. Selecting TEST LIMIT or FIBER TYPE lets
press you 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
S.
K The test mode, which determines what type of test
will run when you press T. The available modes depend on which module is installed. To change the test mode, press A Change Test.
G If the last test run was not saved, you can press
C Unsaved Result to see the test’s results.
L The name of the current screen.
H Press A Change Test to switch test modes. See K.
Figure 1-5. Home Screen for OTDR with Loss/Length Option (cont.)
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Technical Reference Handbook

Using the Setup Menus

To access the tester’s settings press S. Figure 1-6 introduces the SETUP menus.
C
Figure 1-6. The SETUP Screen
A
B
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1-18
Getting Acquainted
Basic Features 1
A The settings available on the current tab.
Note
To see details about a setting, highlight the setting; then press H.
B Use D Tab and E Tab to move among tabs on
the SETUP screen.
C Tabs for the setup menus:
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.
Figure 1-7. The Setup Screen (cont.)
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.
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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 t.
To see an index of all help topics press 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.
H any time you
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 while viewing help; then select the bookmark from the list.
To go back to the previous topic press
B Go to Bookmark
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 CURRENT FOLDER on the Job tab.
To check the memory status press Memory Status. Press A to switch between the memory card and internal memory status.
See Chapter 9 for details about the tester's memory features.
S then select
F; then select
Using the Memory Card
Figure 1-8 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.
Press S; then select CURRENT FOLDER on the Job tab to do the following:
See the folders available on the memory card
Change the destination for saved results. Use
M 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 A
New 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 Format Memory Card.
s.
F; then select
L or
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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 1-9 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
Figure 1-8. Inserting and Removing
the Memory Card
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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
SETUP
*
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
K
L
, . /
FUNCTIONS
[ ]
:
FIBER
INSPECTOR
Del
Shift
SAVE
Backspace
Enter
VIEW
RECORDS
Home
PgUp
PgDn
End
ENTER
HELP
ajt18f.eps
Figure 1-9. Using an External Keyboard
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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
2 Use
3 Use N or K to highlight the field you want to
4 Press
To select a date, time, or numeric format:
1 Press S; then press E to select the System tab.
2 Use L to highlight DATE FORMAT, TIME FORMAT,
3 Use
S; then press E to select the System tab.
L to highlight DATE or TIME; then press t.
change; then use M or L to change the setting.
s when you are finished.
or NUMERIC FORMAT; then press t.
L to highlight the desired format; then press
t.

Changing the Length Units

1 Press S; then press E to select the System tab.
2 Use
3 Use
L to highlight LENGTH UNITS; then press t.
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
N for coarse adjustments; use D and E for fine
or adjustments. Press s when you are finished.
The setting is retained when you turn the tester off.
The brightness setting does not affect the battery life.
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
2 Press t. Use L to highlight the setting you want;
S; then press E to select the System tab.
then press t.

Enabling or Disabling the Beeper

To enable or disable the tones for key presses and testing progress
1 Press
2 Use
3 Use L to highlight the setting you want; then press
S; then press E to select the System tab.
L to highlight AUDIBLE TONE; then press t.
t.
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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 Register your tester with Fluke Networks to receive a
registration key. See “Registration” on page 1-2 for details.
2 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.
3 Press
4 On the OPTIFIBER OPTIONS screen, highlight
5 Enter the software key in the CUSTOM LOGO key
6 Connect the tester to the PC via the serial or USB
7 In LinkWare select Utilities > OptiFiber Utilities >
8 Restart the tester to see the new logo.
To restore the Fluke Networks logo, select Utilities > OptiFiber Utilities > Restore Default Logo; then restart the
tester
F; then select Enable OptiFiber Options.
CUSTOM LOGO; then press
box; then press
port.
Custom Logo. Locate and select the .bmp or .png logo file; then click Open.
If the logo’s format is not valid, the tester deletes the logo and uses the default logo.
s.
t.
Note
1-26
Getting Acquainted
Enabling Software Options 1

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 t. Additional options may be available with software updates.
To see details about the available options press 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.
H from

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.
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OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
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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
*
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 laser (OUTPUT port). 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.
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OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
*
W
Warning
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.
2-2
Getting Started Testing Fiber
Safety Information 2
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. 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.
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OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook
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.

Cleaning and Inspecting Fiber Connectors and Adapters

Always clean and inspect fiber connectors before making connections. Use 99 %-pure isopropyl alcohol and optical­grade wipes or swabs to clean fiber connectors as follows:
WCaution
See Chapters 3 and 6 for instructions on cleaning the tester's OTDR and loss/length connectors.
Connector ends: Wipe the end of the ferrule with a
swab or wipe lightly moistened with alcohol. Dry with a dry swab or wipe.
Bulkhead adapters:
1 Touch the tip of a lint-free foam swab to an
alcohol-soaked cleaning pad.
2 Push the swab into the adapter; twist it around 3
to 5 times against the endface, then remove and dispose of the swab.
3 Dry the endface with a dry, lint-free swab by
twisting it around in the adapter 3 to 5 times.
Inspect connectors with a fiber microscope, such as
the Fluke Networks FiberInspector Video Probe before making connections. See Chapter 5 or the tester’s online help for details.
Periodically clean fiber adapters with a swab and
alcohol. Dry adapters with a dry swab before use.
Always cover unused connectors with dust caps or
plugs. Clean dust plugs periodically with a swab or wipe and alcohol.
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.
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OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook

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.

Selecting a Test Mode

The test mode determines what type of test will run when you press T. The mode is shown in the upper-left corner of the HOME screen. To change the test mode,
A Change Test; then select a test from the menu.
press

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 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
2-6
Getting Started Testing Fiber
General Test Settings 2
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 C Edit Fiber Types. See Chapter 10 for details.
F, select Edit

Viewing Fiber Properties

To see the properties associated with a fiber type, do the following:
1 Press
2 Select FIBER TYPE.
3 Highlight a fiber type; then press
For details on fiber properties, see Chapter 10.
S; then select the Cable tab.
A View Fiber
Type.

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 S, select a test’s tab; then select TEST LIMIT. Each test’s tab shows 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.
F; then select Edit Custom
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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
2 Select TEST LIMIT.
3 Highlight a limit on the SET TEST LIMIT screen; then
S; then select a test’s tab.
press
A View 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 dual-wavelength 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.
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.

Entering Job Settings

Job settings let you identify and organize the test results you save. To access the job settings press S. Table 2-2 describes the job settings.
See “Tutorial: Preparing to Save Tests” on page 2-11 for examples of how to configure the job settings.
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Getting Started Testing Fiber
General Test Settings 2
Table 2-2. Job Settings
Setting Description
COMPANY The customer name, job site, job work order, or other job identifier. OPERATOR The name of the OptiFiber user. CURRENT FOLDER The 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 2 Names you assign to the ends of the cabling. The names are saved with test records and also
appear on ChannelMap diagrams.
THIS END The 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 TEMPLATE The name of the pattern selected for the list of sequential fiber IDs. See “Creating a List of
Sequential IDs” on page 2-24 for details.
START ID, END ID The first and last IDs in the auto sequence list. See “Creating a List of Sequential IDs” on page
2-24 for details.
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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.
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Getting Started Testing Fiber
Tutorial: Preparing to Save Tests 2

Tutorial: Preparing to Save Tests

The tutorial in this section guides you through setting up the tester to save tests.

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/EIA-606-A Fiber IDs” on page 2- 25 for details.
1-1 Press
1-2 On the AUTO SEQUENCE screen, press
S; then select AUTO SEQ TEMPLATE on
the Job tab.
AChange
Template; then select Horizontal.
1-3 On the AUTO SEQUENCE screen press
transfer the default pattern into the START ID and STOP ID.
1-4 On the AUTO SEQUENCE screen press
Use the softkeys, K N ML, and t to change the default ID to 03A-A01 in the CURRENT START ID box. Press
1-5 On the AUTO SEQUENCE screen press
Use the softkeys and K NML to change the default ID to 03A-B06 in the CURRENT START ID box. Press
1-6 Press
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 2-27.
1-7 Press
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).
s when you are finished.
s when you are finished.
E Sample List. You should see a list of 12
e to leave the sample list.
D Default to
B Edit Start.
C Edit Stop.
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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
2-3 Press
2-4 Press t to select the new folder as the current
S; then select CURRENT FOLDER on the
Job tab.
A New Folder. Use the softkeys, K NML,
and t to enter a folder name into the NEW FOLDER NAME box. Figure 2-1 describes the text
editing screen.
s when you are finished.
Press
folder.

Step 3: Entering the Operator Name

For this tutorial you will enter your name as the operator.
3-1 Press
3-2 Use the softkeys,
S; then select OPERATOR on the Job tab.
K NML, and t to enter your
name into the OPERATOR box. Press s when you are finished.

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,
NML
box. Press s when you are finished.
4-2 On the Job tab select END 2. Use the softkeys,
, and t to enter CLOSET into the END 1
K
K N
ML, and t to 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
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Getting Started Testing Fiber
Tutorial: Preparing to Save Tests 2
A The characters available for use.
3
2
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.
1
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.
4
5 6
ajt65f.eps
Figure 2-1. Using the Text Editing Screen
2-13
F Deletes the character to the left of the cursor.
Tip: You can use an external keyboard to edit text (except
international characters). See Chapter 1.
OF-500 OptiFiber Certifying OTDR
Technical Reference Handbook

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:
¾ Multimode module installed ¾ Charged battery attached or the ac adapter
connected
¾ Job settings configured as follows (see the
tutorial “Preparing to Save Tests” on page 2-11 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
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Getting Started Testing Fiber
Tutorial: Running an OTDR Test 2

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
A Change Test; then select Auto OTDR.

Step 2: Selecting a Fiber Type and Test Limit

2-1 Press S; then press D Tab to select the Cable
tab.
2-2 Use
2-3 Use LM to highlight the type of fiber you will
2-4 On the SETUP screen press
LM to highlight FIBER TYPE; then press t.
test; then press t to select the fiber type.
E Tab to select the
OTDR tab. If TEST LIMIT is already set to Document only, go to step 3.
2-5 Press
2-6 Use LM to highlight Document only; then press
t to see the available test limits.
t to select the limit.

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 2-2 shows these connections and typical features on an OTDR trace.
4-3 Press
T.
See Chapter 3 for details on the OTDR Port Connection Quality gauge shown on the OTDR TESTING screen.
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2-16
Figure 2-2. Typical OTDR Connections and Trace Features
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Getting Started Testing Fiber
Tutorial: Running an OTDR Test 2

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
2-2 shows some features of a typical OTDR trace.
To see a table of the events on the cabling, press
A View Trace. Figure
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
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.
A

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 B Current 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.
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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:
¾ OFTM-5612B or OFTM-5732 module installed ¾ Connector adapter installed on the tester's
INPUT port. Match the connectors on the fiber under test.
¾ Charged batteries attached or the ac adapters
connected
¾ Job settings configured as described in the
tutorial “Preparing to Save Tests” on page 2-11
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.
For testing multimode fiber, two mandrels of the
correct size
Fiber cleaning supplies

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
2-2 Use
2-3 Use
S; then press D Tab to select the Cable
tab.
LM to highlight FIBER TYPE; then press t.
LM to highlight the type of fiber you will
test; then press
t to select the fiber type.
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Getting Started Testing Fiber
Tutorial: Running a Loss/Length Test 2

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
3-3 Use
t to see the available test limits.
LM to highlight Document only; then press
t to select the limit.
3-4 Use
3-5 Use
LM to highlight REMOTE END SETUP; then
press t.
LM to highlight Smart Remote; then press
t.
If a message about setting the reference appears,
press
B No. You will set the reference in Step 4.
3-6 Use
3-7 Use
LM to highlight THIS UNIT; then press t.
LM to highlight Main; then press t.
3-8 Use
LM to highlight BI-DIRECTIONAL; then press
t.
3-9 Use
3-10 On the remote unit’s Loss/Length tab set REMOTE
LM to highlight Disabled; then press t.
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
4-3 Connect the main and remote testers as shown on
4-4 On the VIEW REFERENCE screen press
F. Use LM to highlight Set Loss/Length
Reference; then press t.
the SET REFERENCE screen and in Figure 2-3; then press t.
C OK. (You
do not need to enter reference test cord lengths for this tutorial.)
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2-20
Figure 2-3. Smart Remote Mode Reference Connections
ajt05f.eps
Getting Started Testing Fiber
Tutorial: Running a Loss/Length Test 2

Step 5: Running the Test

5-1 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:
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 more details about the cabling, press
View Results.
See Chapter 6 for details on loss/length results.
A

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.
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2-22
Figure 2-4. Smart Remote Mode Test Connections
ajt08f.eps
Getting Started Testing Fiber
Fiber ID Options 2

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
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, you can use an ID already
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
2. Enter a fiber ID in the SAVE RESULT IN FIBER ID: box. You may need to press
3. Press
4. The next time you press s, the incremented fiber
s again.
ID appears in the editing box. Press s again to use the ID.
s.
A Edit ID to see this box.
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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:
1 Select AUTO SEQ TEMPLATE from the Job tab in
Setup, press template.
2 Press D Default to transfer the pattern to the
START ID and STOP ID.
3 Press
appropriate characters into the start and stop IDs. Press s when you are finished editing each ID.
4 To preview the list, press
5 Press
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:
1 Run a test; then press
2 Press
need to press A Pick ID first.
3 Highlight an ID; then press
A Change Template; then select a
B Edit Start or C Edit Stop to enter
E Sample List.
s when you are finished.
s.
C Auto Seq IDs to select the list. You may
s.
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Getting Started Testing Fiber
Fiber ID Options 2

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.
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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.

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
3 Press D Download IDs to select the list. You may
need to press A Pick ID first.
4 Highlight an ID; then press
s.
s.

Solving Problems with Fiber ID Lists

Table 2-3 gives solutions to some typical problems you may have with fiber ID lists.
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Getting Started Testing Fiber
Fiber ID Options 2
Table 2-3. Solving Problems with Fiber ID Lists
Problem Solutions
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.
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.
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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
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.
2-28
E Edit Text on the
D Pick
D Pick Comment
*
W
Warning
Read the safety information at the beginning of Chapter 2 before 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.
Chapter 3

Using the OTDR

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Cleaning the OTDR Connector

Note
Typically, the OTDR connector requires cleaning only if it has been touched.
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 3-14.
If the connector is very dirty, wipe the end of the ferrule with an optical-grade wipe lightly moistened with 99 %­pure isopropyl alcohol. Dry with a dry wipe.
3-2
Figure 3-1. Cleaning the OTDR Connector
ajt71f.eps
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 Auto 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 3-46 for details.
A Change Test. Select
Tip: To see the settings used for an OTDR test, press
View Details on the OTDR SUMMARY screen; then
press A OTDR Settings. The settings used may be slightly different from the nominal values selected on the OTDR tab.
C

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.
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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.
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 view 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.
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Using the OTDR
Setting Up for OTDR Testing 3
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.
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.
For Launch Only compensation, highlight the event that is the end of the launch fiber; then press
For Launch + Receive compensation, highlight the event that is the end of the launch fiber and the beginning of the receive fiber; then press
C 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 Set Launch or B Move Launch. Next, highlight the event that is the beginning of the receive fiber; then press Move Receive.
C Set Receive or C
B.
B and
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To see where the markers are set on the trace, press
A View Trace.
7 Press
8 On the OTDR tab in Setup, set LAUNCH
s; then press C OK.
COMPENSATION to Enabled.
To view the launch compensation settings, press select Set Launch Fiber Compensation; then press View 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.
F,
A
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Setting Up for OTDR Testing 3
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Figure 3-2. Launch Only Compensation Connections
Figure 3-3. Launch + Receive Compensation
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Connections
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Figure 3-4. Launch + Fiber + Receive Compensation Connections
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Setting Up for OTDR Testing 3
Launch fiber
length
Receive fiber length
Beginning of
End of
receive fiber
launch fiber
Measurement is relative to the end of the launch fiber
Figure 3-5. OTDR Trace with Launch Compensation Enabled
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Settings for OTDR Tests

Table 3-1 describes the settings that apply to OTDR tests.
Table 3-1. Settings for OTDR Tests
SETUP Tab Setting Description
Job tab Job settings Before 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 tab FIBER TYPE
Select 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
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Setting Up for OTDR Testing 3
Table 3-1. Settings for OTDR Tests (cont.)
SETUP Tab Setting Description
Cable tab
* 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.
MANUAL CABLE SETTINGS
n
BACKSCATTER
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 n decreases measured length.*
BACKSCATTER is the backscatter coefficient, which indicates the amount of 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.
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Table 3-1. Settings for OTDR Tests (cont.)
SETUP Tab Setting Description
OTDR tab TEST LIMIT
OTDR tab
WAVELENGTH You can test cabling at one or all the wavelengths supported by the installed
LAUNCH COMPENSATION
OTDR PLOT GRID Enables or disables the grid on the OTDR trace.
3-12
The 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.
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.
Enables or disables launch fiber compensation. See Set Launch Fiber Compensation below.
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Using the OTDR
Setting Up for OTDR Testing 3
Table 3-1. Settings for OTDR Tests (cont.)
SETUP Tab Setting Description
OTDR tab RANGE
RESOLUTION (OFTM- 56xxB) PULSE WIDTH
OFTM-57xx:
AVERAGING TIME LOSS THRESHOLD
On Functions
menu
Set Launch Fiber Compensation
You can set these only in Manual OTDR mode. See “Using Manual OTDR Mode” on page 3-46 for details.
To see the settings used for an Auto OTDR test, press 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.
A OTDR Settings.
C View Details on the
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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.
Figure 3-6. OTDR Port Connection Quality Gauge
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OTDR Connection Quality 3
Minimal noise on trace
Minimal deadzone and "tailing"
from good OTDR connection
Increased deadzone and "tailing"
Increased noise on trace
from dirty or damaged
OTDR connection
(especially noticeable on
1300 nm trace)
Figure 3-7. Traces Showing Good and Bad OTDR Connections
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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 C Stop Averaging. For dual- wavelength tests, press C twice –once for each wavelength. This softkey is not available for Auto OTDR tests.
3-16
Figure 3-8. OFTM-573x Progress Screen for Extended
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Test Times
Using the OTDR
Running the OTDR Test 3

Running the OTDR Test

Figure 3-9 shows the equipment needed for OTDR tests.
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)
Figure 3-9. Equipment for OTDR Tests
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E Launch fiber and receive fibers. Match the fiber to be
tested. Match cable connectors at one end when possible.
F Fiber cleaning supplies
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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.
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
6 To save the results, press
T to start the OTDR test.
s, select or create a
fiber ID; then press s again.
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Using the OTDR
Running the OTDR Test 3
Figure 3-10. Connecting the OTDR to Installed Fiber (no receive fiber)
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Figure 3-11. Connecting the OTDR to Installed Fiber (with receive fiber)
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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
Item Description
PASS/FAIL PASS: 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.
WARNING The 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
C View Details to see these screens.
FIBER LENGTH The 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.

Reading the SUMMARY Screen

The SUMMARY screen, which appears when the test is finished, is described in Table 3-2.
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Using the OTDR
Looking at OTDR Test Results 3
Table 3-2. OTDR Summary Screen Features (cont.)
Item Description
OVERALL LOSS
LARGEST EVENT The largest loss event on the cabling.
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.
C View Details softkey 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” on page 3-38 or press
H for information about OTDR details.
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Reading the OTDR Trace

To see the OTDR trace, press A View Trace from the OTDR SUMMARY screen or EVENT TABLE.
N
M L
K
Figure 3-13. OTDR Trace Screen (launch compensation disabled)
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
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Using the OTDR
Looking at OTDR Test Results 3
A
Wavelength for the trace and the End setting on the Job tab in SETUP. If the test ran at two wavelengths,
A to switch wavelengths. You can set the
press wavelengths on the OTDR tab in Setup.
B Magnification factors for the trace. See “Zooming the
Trace” on page 3-29.
C The distance (m or ft) and the power loss (dB) between
the cursor and the measurement marker (M).
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 3-29). The navigational cue above the softkey labels describes the arrow keys’ current function.
G Key for setting and clearing the measurement cursor.
See “Using the Measurement Cursor” on page 3-28.
H Moves the cursor to the next event on the trace. If you
use K to move the cursor, C changes to Previous 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 3-28.
N Decibel scale for the OTDR backscatter.
Figure 3-13. OTDR Trace Screen (cont.)
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1
2
5
6
3-26
3
4
7
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Figure 3-14. Typical OTDR Trace Features
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