IDEAL INDUSTRIES OTDR Technical Manual

IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC.

TECHNICAL MANUAL IDEAL OTDR

Form number: 33-960 Series Revision: September 12, 2008

Copyright © 2008 IDEAL All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, be it electronically, mechanically, or by any other means such as photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of IDEAL (IDEAL).

Information provided by IDEAL is believed to be accurate and reliable. However, no responsibility is assumed by IDEAL for its use nor for any infringements of patents or other rights of third parties that may result from its use. No license is granted by implication or otherwise under any patent rights of IDEAL.

IDEAL’s Commerce And Government Entities (CAGE) code under the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is 0L8C3.

The information contained in this publication is subject to change without notice.

Trademarks

IDEAL’s trademarks have been identified as such. However, the presence or absence of such identification does not affect the legal status of any trademark.

Units of Measurement

Units of measurement in this publication conform to SI standards and practices.

Version number: 4.0.1

ii IDEAL

Contents

Certification Information ....................................................................................................... vi

1 Introducing the IDEAL OTDR ........................................................................ 1

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

Power Sources ........................................................................................................................5

Typical Applications ................................................................................................................5

OTDR Basic Principles ..............................................................................................................6

Conventions ............................................................................................................................8

2 Safety Information ....................................................................................... 9

Laser Safety Information (Units without VFL) ..........................................................................9

Laser Safety Information (Units with VFL) .............................................................................10

Electrical Safety Information .................................................................................................10

3 Getting Started with Your OTDR ............................................................... 11

Turning the Unit On and Off .................................................................................................11

Using Menus and Keypad .....................................................................................................13

4 Customizing Your OTDR ............................................................................. 15

Selecting the Distance Units .................................................................................................15

Selecting the Language of Operation ...................................................................................16

Setting the Date and Time ....................................................................................................17

Adjusting the Brightness .......................................................................................................18

Selecting a Printer .................................................................................................................19

Configuring the Power Management Settings ......................................................................20

5 Setting Up Your OTDR ................................................................................ 21

Installing the Universal Interface (UI) ....................................................................................21

Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers ...............................................................................22

Setting General OTDR Parameters .........................................................................................23

Setting the Acquisition Parameters .......................................................................................25

Setting Analysis Parameters ..................................................................................................28

Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds ..................................................................................................30

Setting Macrobend Parameters .............................................................................................32

Setting Storage Parameters ..................................................................................................34

OTDR iii

Contents

6 Testing Fibers ..............................................................................................37

Testing in Auto Mode ...........................................................................................................38

Testing in Fault Finder Mode .................................................................................................41

Testing in Manual (Advanced) Mode .....................................................................................43

Monitoring Fiber in Real Time Mode .....................................................................................46

Launch Conditions for Multimode Measurements ................................................................49

7 Managing Test Results ................................................................................51

Summary Pane ......................................................................................................................51

Events Pane ..........................................................................................................................52

Trace Pane .............................................................................................................................53

Trace Info. Pane ....................................................................................................................54

Using Markers .......................................................................................................................56

Using Zoom Controls ............................................................................................................57

Printing Test Results ..............................................................................................................59

Opening Trace Files ...............................................................................................................60

Saving Files ...........................................................................................................................61

Checking Available Memory ..................................................................................................63

Creating Folders ....................................................................................................................63

Copying, Renaming, or Deleting Files and Folders ................................................................64

Transferring Results to a Computer .......................................................................................66

8 Using Your OTDR as a Light Source ............................................................71

Activating/Deactivating a Light Source .................................................................................72

Modulating the Source Signal ..............................................................................................73

9 Maintenance ................................................................................................75

Cleaning UI Connectors ........................................................................................................76

Recharging Main Batteries ....................................................................................................78

Replacing Batteries ...............................................................................................................79

Recalibrating the Unit ...........................................................................................................80

Upgrading the IDEAL OTDR Software ...................................................................................81

Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only) ....................................................83

10 Troubleshooting ..........................................................................................85

Solving Common Problems ...................................................................................................85

Obtaining Online Help ..........................................................................................................88

Customer Support and Technical Assistance .........................................................................89

Transportation ......................................................................................................................91

iv IDEAL

Contents

11 Warranty ..................................................................................................... 93

General Information .............................................................................................................93

Liability .................................................................................................................................93

Exclusions .............................................................................................................................94

Service and Repairs ...............................................................................................................95

IDEAL Service Centers Worldwide .........................................................................................96

A Description of Event Types ........................................................................ 97

Span Start ............................................................................................................................97

Span End .............................................................................................................................97

Continuous Fiber .................................................................................................................98

End of Analysis ....................................................................................................................99

Non-Reflective Event ..........................................................................................................100

Positive Event .....................................................................................................................101

Launch Level ......................................................................................................................102

Fiber Section ......................................................................................................................103

Reflective Event (Possible Echo) .........................................................................................104

Echo ..................................................................................................................................105

Merged Reflective Event ....................................................................................................106

Reflective Event .................................................................................................................108

Index .............................................................................................................. 109

OTDR v

Certification Information

F.C.C. Information

Electronic test equipment is exempt from Part 15 compliance (FCC) in the United States. However, compliance verification tests are systematically performed on most IDEAL equipment.

 Information

Electronic test equipment is subject to the EMC Directive in the European Union. The EN61326 standard prescribes both emission and immunity requirements for laboratory, measurement, and control equipment. This unit has undergone extensive testing according to the European Union Directive and Standards.

vi IDEAL

Certification Information

DECLARATI ON OF CONFORM ANCE

Ideal Industries Limited Unit 3, Europa Court Europa Boulevard Westbrook Warrington Cheshire WA5 7TN United Kingdom

Declare that the following product(s):

IDEAL 33-960 Series handheld OTDR with all accessories to which this declaration relates are in conformity with the following standard(s) or other

normative document(s): EN 55022:1998/A2:2003 Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio

EN 60825-1:1994/A2:2001 Safety of laser products – Part 1: Equipment EN 61326:1997/A3:2003 Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control

Disturbance Characteristics of Information Technology Equipment

classifications, requirements, and user´s guide and Laboratory Use – EMC Requirements

following the provisions of the following European Community Directives: 89/336/EEC Electromagnetic Compatibility and 72/23/EEC Low Voltage Safety. Issued on 1st of July, 2008 For and on behalf of Ideal Industries at the above address

Tony Kumeta, European General Manager

Ideal Industries Limited Unit 3, Europa Court Europa Boulevard Westbrook Warrington Cheshire WA5 7TN United Kingdom www.europe.idealindustries.de

OTDR vii

1 Introducing the IDEAL OTDR

The IDEAL OTDR is a compact handheld OTDR optimized for access/FTTx network testing. The unit can be equipped with optional power meter, visual fault locator (VFL), and fiber inspection probe.

Main Features

³ Test can be started by pressing a single key

³ Possible to test with acquisition duration as short as 5 seconds

³ One or two OTDR ports (singlemode, multimode, or filtered

wavelength)

³ Screen optimized for outdoor use

³ USB ports (host and client)

Shoulder strap eyelet

RJ-45 connector

AC adapter/charger connector

Battery charge

status LEDs (one per battery)

Stand

OTDR 1

Display

Keypad

Introducing the IDEAL OTDR

Main Features

Visual fault locator port

and soft cap (optional)

Singlemode OTDR port

Infrared port (for printer)

On some models only:

Singlemode OTDR port for

in-service testing

Multimode OTDR port

Power meter detector port

(optional)

Inspection probe

connector

USB host port

(for data transfer using memory drive)

USB client port

(for data transfer via ActiveSync)

Note: Ports and connectors on your unit may differ from the illustration.

2 IDEAL

Introducing the IDEAL OTDR

Other test utilities:

³ Visual fault locator to inspect or identify fibers (optional)

³ Video fiber inspection probe (optional)

³ Power meter (optional)

Safety label and serial number (under the stand)

Quick reference labels

Battery compartment (two rechargeable batteries)

Main Features

OTDR 3

Introducing the IDEAL OTDR

Main Features

Other useful characteristics:

³ Customizable test thresholds with visual pass/fail analysis

³ Memory for 500 OTDR traces and possible data transfer to a computer

³ Energy-saving features: automatic backlight or unit shutdown

³ Multilingual graphical user interface

³ Comprehensive online help available from each function and Quick

Reference labels affixed to back of unit

³ Data post-processing: You can install the OTDR Viewer software

(provided on the installation CD) on a computer to view and analyze OTDR traces. You can access more features such as:

³ customized printout

³ batch printing

³ conversion of traces to many formats such as Telcordia or ASCII.

4 IDEAL

Introducing the IDEAL OTDR

Power Sources

The unit operates with the following power sources:

³ AC adapter/charger (connected to standard power outlet—indoor use

only). Compatible car outlet adapter available upon request.

³ Two lithium-ion rechargeable batteries (automatically take over if you

disconnect the AC adapter/charger). Battery recharge is automatic when the AC adapter/charger is connected.

Typical Applications

You can use the OTDR for several applications, such as:

³ Short-link testing

³ Service activation

³ Fault finder

³ Troubleshooting (dark and live fibers)

OTDR 5

Introducing the IDEAL OTDR

OTDR Basic Principles

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

The OTDR calculates distances as follows:

where

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

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

pulse

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

manufacturer)

Distance

-- -

×=

m/s)

6 IDEAL

Introducing the IDEAL OTDR

OTDR Basic Principles

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

³ Rayleigh scattering occurs when a pulse travels down the fiber and

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

³ Fresnel reflections occur when the light traveling down the fiber

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

generator

Set of

instructions

Laser

diode

Pulse

Light pulses

Optical coupler

Returned signal

Avalanche

photodetector (APD)

Analog-to-digital

converter (A/D)

Analyzed signal

Microprocessor

Light pulses

OTDR

port

Reflections coming

Display

Fiber

back to the OTDR

When the full trace is displayed, each point represents an average of many sampling points. You will have to zoom to see each point (see Using Zoom Controls on page 57).

OTDR 7

Introducing the IDEAL OTDR

Conventions

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

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury. Do not proceed unless you understand and meet the required conditions.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury. Do not proceed unless you understand and meet the required conditions.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in component damage. Do not proceed unless you understand and meet the required conditions.

WARNING

CAUTION

IMPORTANT

Refers to information about this product you should not overlook.

8 IDEAL

2 Safety Information

WARNING

Do not install or terminate fibers while a light source is active. Never look directly into a live fiber and ensure that your eyes are protected at all times.

WARNING

Use of controls, adjustments and procedures for operation and maintenance other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure or impair the protection provided by this unit.

Laser Safety Information (Units without VFL)

Your instrument is a Class 1M laser product in compliance with standards IEC 60825-1 Amendment 2: 2001 and 21 CFR 1040.10. Invisible laser radiation may be encountered at the output port.

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

Affixed to back (under the stand)

OTDR 9

Safety Information

Laser Safety Information (Units with VFL)

Your instrument is a Class 3R laser product in compliance with standards IEC 60825-1 Amendment 2: 2001 and 21 CFR 1040.10. It is potentially harmful in direct intrabeam viewing.

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

Affixed to back

(under the stand)

Indicated on

connector panel

Electrical Safety Information

The AC adapter/charger provided with this unit (14.4 W/9 V) is specifically designed to work with your IDEAL OTDR.

WARNING

Use the AC adapter/charger indoors only.

Any other AC adapter/charger or power source (for example, car outlet) must output at least 12 W.

10 IDEAL

3 Getting Started with Your

OTDR

Turning the Unit On and Off

When you turn the unit on, you may use it immediately under normal conditions.

When the unit is turned off, it keeps the following parameters in its internal memory:

³ Test parameters

³ User-defined thresholds

³ Regional, LCD, and energy-saving settings

³ Saved test results

IMPORTANT

If you remove batteries (and the AC adapter/charger is disconnected), the unit will turn off without saving the above elements.

OTDR 11

Getting Started with Your OTDR

Turning the Unit On and Off

There are two ways to turn off the IDEAL OTDR

³ Suspend: the next time you turn your unit on, you will quickly return to

your work environment.

³ Shutdown: completely cuts power to the unit; the unit will perform a

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

To turn the unit on:

Press Pwr. The unit initializes for a few seconds and displays the OTDR Parameters pane.

To enter the suspend mode:

Hold down the Pwr key for about two seconds. Release the key as soon as you hear a beep.

To perform a shutdown:

Hold down the Pwr key for about five seconds. You will hear a first beep; release the key after you hear a second beep.

12 IDEAL

Getting Started with Your OTDR

Using Menus and Keypad

You can access optical tools from the keypad or menu. Menu options may differ depending on your unit configuration.

Status Bar

Utility name (OTDR, File Manager, etc.)

Trace name OTDR status

(active/not active)

Battery status and AC adapter/charger status

Keypad

To activate the function

displayed directly above

To scroll through available functions

To cancel/exit current function

To start (or stop) an acquisition

To adjust brightness (four levels)

To turn unit on/off

To access the main menu

To move around, select items, and change parameters

To access help about current function

To access main features:

1. Press the Menu key.

2. Use the arrows to select a feature and press Select.

OTDR 13

Getting Started with Your OTDR

Using Menus and Keypad

To activate F1/F2 functions:

1. Use the left/right function arrows (on each side of the F1/F2 keys) to

display the desired function or parameter.

2. Press the F1 or F2 key located just below.

To access and modify on-screen parameters:

1. Use the arrows to select an on-screen item (list, check box, etc.).

2. Press Select to activate or open it.

To enter text or numbers with an on-screen keyboard:

³ Use the left/right function arrows (on each side of the F1/F2 keys) to

move the cursor in the text.

³ Use the up/down and left/right arrows to select a character, and then

press Select to add it.

³ Press OK (F1 key) to accept the element, and then hide the keyboard.

14 IDEAL

4 Customizing Your OTDR

Selecting the Distance Units

There are three distance units available: meters, miles, and kilofeet.

Note: The attenuation values are always expressed in dBs per kilometer.

To select distance units:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > Unit, and then

press Select.

2. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Regional Settings, and then press F2 to display the pane.

3. Press Select to open the Distance unit list.

4. With the current distance unit highlighted, use the up/down arrows to

select the desired unit, and then press Select to activate it.

OTDR 15

Customizing Your OTDR

Selecting the Language of Operation

You may display the user interface in one of the available languages (default is English). If other languages become available in the future, you could access them by replacing the unit software (see Upgrading the IDEAL OTDR Software on page 94). Values are kept in memory when you turn the unit off.

To select a new interface language:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > Unit, and then

press Select.

2. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Regional Settings, and then display the pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Use the up/down arrows to select the Language list, and then press Select to open it.

4. With the current language highlighted, use the up/down arrows to select the desired language, and then press Select to activate it.

Once you have modified the language, you will be prompted to restart your unit.

16 IDEAL

Customizing Your OTDR

Setting the Date and Time

When saving results, the unit also saves the corresponding date and time.

You must enter the date according to the year-month-day format and the time according to the 24-hour format.

You can also modify the time zone.

To set the date and time:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > Unit, and then

press Select.

2. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Regional Settings, and then display the pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Use the arrows to select any of the date or time settings, and then press Select to display the on-screen keyboard (for details about using keyboards, see Using Menus and Keypad on page 13).

4. Enter the new value and press OK (F1/F2 key).

To modify the time zone:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > Unit, and then

press Select.

2. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Regional Settings, and then display the pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Use the arrows to select the Time zone list, and then press Select to open it.

4. With the current time zone highlighted, use the up/down arrows to select the desired time zone, and then press Select to activate it.

OTDR 17

Customizing Your OTDR

Adjusting the Brightness

To fit your work environment, you may adjust the LCD brightness. Values are kept in memory when you turn the unit off.

To adjust the display brightness:

Press the key repeatedly to switch between brightness levels (0-3-6-9).

1. Press Menu, select Setup > Unit, and then press Select.

2. If necessary, use the left/right function arrows until you see General, and then display the pane (F1/F2 key).

By default, the Brightness slider is selected.

3. Use the left/right arrows to adjust the brightness level.

18 IDEAL

Customizing Your OTDR

Selecting a Printer

To print reports, you must configure the printer first. Your unit supports the Printek 2” printer only and communicates with it via the infrared port located on the top panel.

If you want to print on a network printer or if you want to print other type of reports, you must transfer the desired files on a computer on which OTDR Viewer is installed.

To select a printer:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > Unit, and then

press Select.

2. If necessary, use the left/right function arrows until you see General, and then display the pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Use the up/down arrows to select the Printer list, and then press Select to open it.

4. With the current printer highlighted, use the up/down arrows to select the desired printer, and then press Select to activate it.

OTDR 19

Customizing Your OTDR

Configuring the Power Management Settings

When you do not use the unit for a while, the display may be dimmed to save power.

You can set idle durations for AC adapter/charger and battery operation. The unit goes in suspend mode after the specified duration has expired (see Turning the Unit On and Off on page 11).

Values are kept in memory when you turn the unit off.

Note: When the backlight is dimmed, the unit operation is not interrupted. Press

any key to return to normal operation.

To configure the power management settings:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > Unit, and then

press Select.

2. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Power, and then display the pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Use the up/down arrows to go to the Tu rn off backlight or Turn off unit section.

4. Use the up/down arrows to select the battery or AC adapter/charger duration list, and then press Select to open the list.

5. With the current duration highlighted, use the up/down arrows to select the desired duration (or Never), and then press Select to confirm.

20 IDEAL

5 Setting Up Your OTDR

Installing the Universal Interface (UI)

The UI fixed baseplate is available for connectors with angled (APC) or non-angled (UPC) polishing.

To install a UI connector adapter onto the UI baseplate:

1. Hold the UI connector adapter so the dust cap opens downwards.

2 3 4

2. Close the dust cap in order to hold the connector adapter more firmly.

3. Align keys and insert the connector adapter into the baseplate.

4. While pushing firmly, turn the connector adapter clockwise on the

baseplate to lock it in place.

OTDR 21

Setting Up Your OTDR

Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers

To ensure maximum power and to avoid erroneous readings:

³ Always clean fiber ends as explained below before inserting

them into the port. IDEAL is not responsible for damage or errors caused by bad fiber cleaning or handling.

³ Ensure that your patchcord has appropriate connectors. Joining

mismatched connectors will damage the ferrules.

To connect the fiber-optic cable to the port:

1. Carefully align the connector and port to prevent the fiber end from

touching the outside of the port or rubbing against other surfaces.

If your connector features a key, ensure that it is fully fitted into the port’s corresponding notch.

2. Push the connector in so that the fiber-optic cable is firmly in place, thus ensuring adequate contact.

IMPORTANT

If your connector features a screwsleeve, tighten the connector enough to firmly maintain the fiber in place. Do not overtighten, as this will damage the fiber and the port.

Note: If your fiber-optic cable is not properly aligned and/or connected, you will

notice heavy loss and reflection.

22 IDEAL

Setting General OTDR Parameters

You can set preferences such as:

³ Grid: You can display or hide the grid appearing on the graph’s

background. By default, the grid is displayed.

³ Zoom and markers: You can display or hide the zoom controls as well

as the markers appearing on the graph.

³ Automatic zoom on fiber span: You can set the trace display to show

only the portion of the trace that is located between the span start and the span end, in full-trace view. By default, this feature is selected.

Even if the application automatically zooms in on the fiber span, you can adjust the zoom manually. You can even zoom in on events located outside the fiber span. For more information on how to use the zoom controls, see Using Zoom Controls on page 57.

³ Reference file: You can enable or disable the selection of a reference

trace. A reference trace is used to compare fibers of a same cable, monitor fiber deterioration, or compare fibers before and after installation. This trace appears in red on the graph.

³ Summary pane (available only with the optional FTTx software

package): By default, the Summary pane is automatically displayed as soon as an acquisition is complete. You can disable this automatic display (you can always access it via the Summary button from the OTDR pane.)

³ Event (fiber) sections: You can display or hide event (fiber) sections in

the Events pane, depending on the types of values you want to view. If you display event sections, the Events pane will include section length and section attenuation.

For example, by hiding the event (fiber) sections, you can obtain the running total of connector and splice losses instead of having a loss value for the entire link. Information on event sections is also available from the Trace pane, in the events table located just below the graph.

OTDR 23

Setting General OTDR Parameters

To set the general OTDR parameters:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > OTDR, and then

press Select.

2. Display the General pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Use the up/down arrows to highlight the

desired item, and then press Select to select it.

You can press Select one more time to clear the boxes.

To revert to the factory-default settings:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > OTDR, and then press Select.

2. From the General pane, use the arrows to select Default, and then

press Select to confirm.

24 IDEAL

Setting the Acquisition Parameters

You can set parameters such as IOR (group index), backscatter, and helix factor. You can also enable or disable the first connector check.

Setting the IOR, Backscatter, and Helix Factor

Your unit contains default IOR (group index), backscatter, and helix factor values that you can modify if they do not suit your testing needs. You should set the IOR (group index), backscatter, and helix factor before performing tests in order to apply them to all newly acquired traces.

³ The index of refraction (IOR) (also known as group index) is used to

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

³ The (Rayleigh) backscatter value represents the amount of backscatter

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

³ The helix factor takes into account the difference between the length

of the cable and the length of the fiber inside the cable; it does not vary with wavelengths.

The length of the OTDR distance axis is always equivalent to the physical length of the cable (not the fiber).

OTDR 25

Setting the Acquisition Parameters

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

1. Press Menu, select Setup > OTDR, and then press Select.

2. Display the Acquisition pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Use the up/down arrows to select the wavelength box, and then press

Select to open it.

4. Select the wavelength for which you want to modify parameters. Press Select to confirm your choice.

5. Use the arrows to select any of the settings, and then press Select to display the on-screen keyboard (for details about using keyboards, see Using Menus and Keypad on page 13).

Do not change the default backscatter parameter unless you have values provided by the fiber manufacturer. If you set this parameter incorrectly, your reflectance measurements will be inaccurate.

6. Enter the new value and press OK (F1/F2 key).

IMPORTANT

As you enter the value, the application indicates the minimum or maximum value allowed.

26 IDEAL

Setting the Acquisition Parameters

Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check

The first connector check feature is used to verify that the fibers are properly connected to the OTDR. It verifies the injection level and the reflectance of the first connector. It displays a message when a unusually high loss or reflectance occur at the first connection.

You enable or disable this feature for all wavelengths at a time.

To enable or disable the first connector check:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > OTDR, and then

press Select.

2. Display the Acquisition pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Use the up/down arrows to highlight First

connector check, and then press Select to select it.

You can press Select one more time to clear the box.

Reverting to Factory-Default Acquisition Settings

You can revert to factory settings at any time. The IOR (group index), backscatter, and helix factor will be reset and the first connector check feature will be disabled.

To revert to factory-default settings:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > OTDR, and then press Select.

2. From the Acquisition pane, use the arrows to select Default, and then

press Select.

3. When the application prompts you, answer Yes (F1/F2 key).

OTDR 27

Setting Analysis Parameters

³ To define the actual fiber span start, you can set the launch fiber length.

When you perform tests with your unit, you connect a launch fiber between your unit and the fiber under test. This is why, by default, the fiber span includes the launch fiber.

When you define the length of the launch fiber, the application sets the fiber span start at the beginning of the fiber under test. Therefore, only events related to the defined fiber span will be taken into account. The application will include the loss caused by the span start event in the displayed values. The span start event will also be taken into account when determining the status (pass/fail) of connector loss and reflectance.

The span start becomes event 1 and its distance reference becomes 0. Events excluded from the fiber span are shaded in the event table, and do not appear in the trace display. The cumulative loss is calculated for the defined fiber span only.

³ To optimize event detection, you can set the following detection

thresholds:

³ Splice loss threshold: To display or hide small non-reflective events.

³ Reflectance threshold: To hide false reflective events generated by

noise, transform non-harmful reflective events into loss events, or detect reflective events that could be harmful to network and other fiber-optic equipment.

³ End-of-fiber threshold: To stop the analysis as soon as an important

loss event occurs; for example, an event that could compromise signal transmission down to the end of a network.

28 IDEAL

Setting Analysis Parameters

To set analysis parameters:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > OTDR, and then

press Select.

2. Display the Analysis pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Use the arrows to select any of the settings,

and then press Select to display the

on-screen keyboard (for details about using

keyboards, see Using Menus and Keypad on page 13).

4. Enter the new value and press OK (F1/F2 key).

As you enter the value, the application indicates the minimum or maximum value allowed.

To revert to the factory-default settings:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > OTDR, and then press Select.

2. From the Acquisition pane, use the arrows to select Default, and then

press Select.

OTDR 29

Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds

Note: This function is available only with the optional FTTx software package.

You can enable and set pass/fail threshold parameters for your tests.

You can define thresholds to specify acceptable values (in dB) for splice loss, connector loss, reflectance, span loss and span ORL, and this, for each wavelength.

Each time a measurement exceeds a threshold, the result appears in white on a red background in the Summary pane preceded by the word “FAIL”, also in red. Values appearing in the event table will also be displayed in white on a red background.

To set pass/fail thresholds:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > OTDR, and then

press Select.

2. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Pass/Fail Thresholds, and then display the pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Press Select to open the wavelength list.

4. Use the up/down arrows to select the desired wavelength. Press Select

to confirm your choice.

30 IDEAL

Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds

5. Use the up/down arrows to highlight the desired threshold name.

If necessary, press Select to select the check box. If you clear the check box, the application will not use the threshold.

6. Use the arrows to highlight the threshold value, and then press Select to display the on-screen keyboard (for details about keyboards, see Using Menus and Keypad on page 13).

7. Set the threshold.

As you enter the value, the application indicates the minimum or maximum value allowed.

8. Press OK (F1/F2 key) to hide the keyboard.

To revert to the factory-default settings:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > OTDR, and then press Select.

2. From the Pass/Fail Thresholds pane, use the arrows to select Default,

and then press Select.

3. When the application prompts you, answer Yes (F1/F2 key).

OTDR 31

Setting Macrobend Parameters

Note: This function is available only with the optional FTTx software package.

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

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

³ Of the two loss values, the greater loss occurred at the greater

wavelength.

AND

³ The difference between the two loss values exceeds the defined delta

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

You can also disable macrobend detection.

Note: Macrobend detection is only possible with singlemode wavelengths.

32 IDEAL

Setting Macrobend Parameters

To set macrobend parameters:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > OTDR, and then

press Select.

2. Display the Macrobend pane (F1/F2 key).

3. If necessary, press Select to select the

Display macrobend check box.

If you clear the check box, the application will not detect macrobends.

4. Press Select to open the Wavelengths list.

5. Use the up/down arrows to select the desired wavelengths. Press

Select to confirm your choice.

6. Use the arrows to highlight the Delta (dB) value, and then press Select to display the on-screen keyboard (for details about keyboards, see Using Menus and Keypad on page 13).

7. Set the delta (loss difference) value.

As you enter the value, the application indicates the minimum or maximum value allowed.

8. Press OK (F1/F2 key) to hide the keyboard.

OTDR 33

Setting Storage Parameters

Each time you save a trace, the unit suggests a file name based on autonaming settings. After saving a result, the unit prepares the next file name by incrementing the suffix.

File names: maximum of 20 characters for prefix and 3 digits for suffix.

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

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

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

To set the autonaming scheme:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > OTDR, and then

press Select.

2. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Storage, and then display the pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Use the up/down arrows to select File name prefix or File name suffix.

4. Press Select to display the on-screen keyboard (for details about using keyboards, see Using Menus and Keypad on page 13).

5. Enter the name (prefix) or number (suffix), and then press OK (F1/F2 key) to hide the keyboard.

34 IDEAL

Setting Storage Parameters

To set the file format:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > OTDR, and then

press Select.

2. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Storage, and then display the pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Use the arrows to select Default file format, and then press Select to open the list.

4. Use the up/down arrows to select the desired format, and then press Select to confirm.

To revert to the factory-default for file format and autonaming scheme:

1. Press Menu, select Setup > OTDR, and then press Select.

2. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Storage, and then

display the pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Use the up/down arrows to select Default, and then press Select to confirm.

OTDR 35

6Testing Fibers

The OTDR offers different test modes:

³ Auto: sets all test parameters, performs tests at the specified

wavelengths, and provides complete results.

³ Fault finder: rapidly locates fiber ends and displays length of the fiber

under test. This function is available only with the optional FTTx software package.

³ Manual (advanced): offers all the tools you need to perform complete

OTDR tests and measurements manually and gives you control over all test parameters.

³ Real time: enables to view sudden changes in the fiber link. In this

mode, trace is refreshed instead of averaged.

You can start a test from any pane by pressing the Auto Test key. The unit will use the current parameters. You can stop a test by pressing the Auto Test key one more time.

Your unit may be equipped with two OTDR ports:

³ OTDR SM port: singlemode port to perform conventional OTDR tests

on dark fibers.

³ OTDR MM port (optional): multimode port to perform conventional

OTDR tests on dark fibers.

³ OTDR SM Live port (optional): singlemode port with a filtered

wavelength to perform troubleshooting tests on live fibers.

OTDR 37

Testing F i be r s

Testing in Auto Mode

The application will automatically evaluate the best settings according to the fiber link currently connected to the unit (in less than 5 seconds).

By default, fiber characteristics are evaluated each time you start a test. This is particularly useful if you often have to test fiber links of different lengths. If you prefer, you can set your unit to keep the same settings (range and pulse) for all acquisitions. This could be useful if you need to test several similar fibers (same length) within the same cable. It is always possible to reset the fiber settings later.

If you intend to test at multimode wavelengths, carefully read Launch Conditions for Multimode Measurements on page 49.

To acquire traces in Auto mode:

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

2. Connect a launch fiber between the device under test and the OTDR

Fibers on page 22).

port. If necessary, set the launch fiber length (see Setting Analysis Parameters on page 28).

If your unit is equipped with two OTDR ports, ensure that you connect the fiber to the appropriate port (OTDR SM, OTDR MM, or OTDR SM Live for filtered wavelength).

CAUTION

Never connect a live fiber to the OTDR SM or OTDR MM port. Any incoming signal greater than –40 dBm will affect the OTDR acquisition. Any incoming signal greater than –20 dBm could damage your OTDR permanently.

38 IDEAL

Testing F ib e rs

Testing in Auto Mode

3. Press Menu, select OTDR, and then press Select.

4. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Parameters, and then

display the pane (F1/F2 key).

5. Select the test mode as follows:

5a. Use the arrows to select the OTDR

mode list, and then press Select to open the list.

5b. Use the up/down arrows to select Auto,

and then press Select to confirm.

6. Select test wavelengths as follows:

6a. If your unit supports singlemode and multimode wavelengths,

under Waveleng t h, from the list, select the desired fiber type (for C fiber, select 50 μm and for D fiber, select 62.5 μm).

6b. Use the arrows to select the desired wavelengths and press Select

to confirm each selection.

7. Select duration of the acquisition as follows:

7a. Use the arrows to select the Duration list, and then press Select to

open it.

7b. Use the up/down arrows to select the desired duration for the

acquisition, and then press Select to confirm.

OTDR 39

Testing F i be r s

Testing in Auto Mode

8. Specify whether the unit must keep the fiber settings for all acquisitions or not, as follows:

8a. Use the arrows to select the Keep parameters list, and then press

Select to open it.

8b. If you want the unit to reset the settings for each acquisition,

select No.

If you want the unit to always use the same parameters, select Yes.

8c. Press Select to confirm.

Note: Even if you configured the unit to keep the parameters, it is possible to reset

the fiber settings by selecting No, and then starting an acquisition. If desired, you can set back the option to Ye s to use the new settings for the next acquisitions.

9. Press Auto Test to start the acquisition.

You can stop the acquisition at any time by pressing Auto Test once again.

40 IDEAL

Testing F ib e rs

Testing in Fault Finder Mode

Note: This function is available only with the optional FTTx software package.

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

The unit will determine the more appropriate wavelength (singlemode or multimode, depending on your test configuration). Duration of the acquisition is 45 seconds.

If you intend to test at multimode wavelengths, carefully read Launch Conditions for Multimode Measurements on page 49.

To acquire traces in Fault finder mode:

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

Fibers on page 22).

2. Connect a launch fiber between the device under test and the OTDR port. If necessary, set the launch fiber length (see Setting Analysis Parameters on page 28).

If your unit is equipped with two OTDR ports, ensure that you connect the fiber to the appropriate port (OTDR SM, OTDR MM, or OTDR SM Live for filtered wavelength).

CAUTION

OTDR 41

Testing F i be r s

Testing in Fault Finder Mode

3. Press Menu, select OTDR, and then press Select.

4. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Parameters, and then

display the pane (F1/F2 key).

5. Select the test mode as follows:

5a. Use the arrows to select the OTDR

mode list, and then press Select to open it.

5b. Use the up/down arrows to select Fault

finder, and then press Select to

confirm.

6. If your unit supports singlemode and multimode wavelengths, under Wavelengt h , from the list, select the desired fiber type (for C fiber, select 50 μm and for D fiber, select

62.5 μm).

7. Press Auto Test to start the acquisition.

You can stop the acquisition at any time by pressing Auto Test once again.

42 IDEAL

Testing in Manual (Advanced) Mode

You can set distance range, pulse, and duration of the acquisition in this mode.

Note: Not all pulse widths are compatible with all wavelengths.

If you intend to test at multimode wavelengths, carefully read Launch Conditions for Multimode Measurements on page 49.

To acquire traces in Manual (Advanced) mode:

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

Fibers on page 22).

2. Connect a launch fiber between the device under test and the OTDR port. If necessary, set the launch fiber length (see Setting Analysis Parameters on page 28).

If your unit is equipped with two OTDR ports, ensure that you connect the fiber to the appropriate port (OTDR SM, OTDR MM, or OTDR SM Live for filtered wavelength).

Testing F ib e rs

CAUTION

3. Press Menu, select OTDR, and then press Select.

4. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Parameters, and then

display the pane (F1/F2 key).

OTDR 43

Testing F i be r s

Testing in Manual (Advanced) Mode

5. Select the test mode as follows:

5a. Use the arrows to select the OTDR mode list, and then press

Select to open it.

5b. Use the up/down arrows to select

Manual, and then press Select to confirm.

6. Select test wavelengths as follows:

6a. If your unit supports singlemode and

multimode wavelengths, under Waveleng t h , from the list, select the desired fiber type (for C fiber, select 50 μm and for D fiber, select 62.5 μm).

6b. Use the arrows to select the desired wavelengths. Press Select to

confirm each selection.

7. Select range as follows:

7a. Use the arrows to select the Range list, and then press Select to

open the list.

7b. Use the up/down arrows to select the desired distance range, and

then press Select to confirm.

44 IDEAL

Testing F ib e rs

Testing in Manual (Advanced) Mode

8. Select pulse as follows:

8a. Use the arrows to select the Pulse list and press Select to open

the list.

8b. Use the up/down arrows to select the desired pulse, and then

press Select.

9. Select duration of the acquisition as follows:

9a. Use the arrows to select the Duration list, and then press Select to

open the list.

9b. Use the up/down arrows to select the desired duration for the

acquisition, and then press Select to confirm.

10. Press Auto Test to start the acquisition.

You can stop the acquisition at any time by pressing Auto Test once again.

OTDR 45

Testing F i be r s

Monitoring Fiber in Real Time Mode

You can monitor fiber at one wavelength at a time. You can also switch from Real time mode to Manual mode at any time.

If you intend to test at multimode wavelengths, carefully read Launch Conditions for Multimode Measurements on page 49.

To monitor fiber in Real time mode:

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

Fibers on page 22).

2. Connect a launch fiber between the device under test and the OTDR port. If necessary, set the launch fiber length (see Setting Analysis Parameters on page 28).

If your unit is equipped with two OTDR ports, ensure that you connect the fiber to the appropriate port (OTDR SM, OTDR MM, or OTDR SM Live for filtered wavelength).

CAUTION

3. Press Menu, select OTDR, and then press Select.

4. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Parameters and display

the pane (F1/F2 key).

46 IDEAL

Testing F ib e rs

Monitoring Fiber in Real Time Mode

5. Select the test mode as follows:

5a. Use the arrows to select the OTDR mode list and press Select to

open the list.

5b. Use the up/down arrows to select Real

time, and then press Select to confirm.

6. Select test wavelengths as follows:

6a. If your unit supports singlemode and

multimode wavelengths, under Waveleng t h , from the list, select the desired fiber type (for C fiber, select 50 μm and for D fiber, select

62.5 μm).

6b. Use the arrows to select the desired wavelength. Press Select to

select it.

7. Select range as follows:

7a. Use the arrows to select the Range list, and then press Select to

open the list.

7b. Use the up/down arrows to select the desired distance range, and

then press Select to confirm.

8. Select pulse as follows:

8a. Use the arrows to select the Pulse list, and then press Select to

open the list.

8b. Use the up/down arrows to select the desired pulse, and then

press Select to confirm.

9. Press Auto Test to start the acquisition.

OTDR 47

Testing F i be r s

Monitoring Fiber in Real Time Mode

To deactivate the Real time mode:

If you only want to stop monitoring, press Auto Test once again.

If you are ready to start a test, proceed as follows:

1. Press Exit to exit the Trace pane.

2. In the displayed panel, open the OTDR mode list, and then select

Manual.

48 IDEAL

Testing F ib e rs

Launch Conditions for Multimode Measurements

In a multimode fiber network, the attenuation of a signal is highly dependent on the mode distribution (or launch condition) of the source that emits this signal.

In the same way, the attenuation reading performed by any test instrument will also depend on the mode distribution of its light source.

A single light source cannot be conditioned for both 50 μm (50 MMF) and

62.5 μm (62.5 MMF) fibers at the same time:

³ A source conditioned for 50 MMF testing will be under-filled for

62.5 MMF testing.

³ A source conditioned for 62.5 MMF will be overfilled for 50 MMF testing.

TIA/EIA-455-34A (FOTP34, Method A2) is providing a target launch condition that is obtained when using an overfilled source followed by mandrel-wrap mode filter (five close-wound turns around a mandrel tool of a given diameter).

Your unit has been conditioned for 62.5 MMF testing. However, you can also test with 50 MMF fibers.

OTDR 49

Testing F i be r s

Launch Conditions for Multimode Measurements

The table on fiber types gives information about tests with the 50 μm and

62.5 μm fibers.

Fiber type Recommended mode filter Remarks

50 μm Perform a five-turn

mandrel-wrap (wrapping the patchcord a minimum of five turns around the mandrel tool) on the patchcord connecting the OTDR to the fiber under test.

As per FOTP-34:

³ For fibers with 3 mm

jacket: use a mandrel tool with a diameter of 25 mm.

³ For fibers without jacket:

use a mandrel tool with a diameter of 22 mm.

62.5 μm No mode filter required. Loss measurements similar to

Nominal launch conditions are overfilled.

Loss measurements can be slightly pessimistic (higher loss) when compared to loss measurements done with a 50 MMF source compliant to FOTP34, Method A2.

those obtained with a power meter and a source that is conditioned according to FOTP34, Method A2.

IMPORTANT

If you test with 50-μm fibers, IDEAL recommends that you use a mode filter (mandrel-wrap). Otherwise, you may obtain results with an excess loss value of 0.1 to 0.3 dB.

50 IDEAL

7 Managing Test Results

There are many ways to view the results:

³ Summary pane

³ Events pane

³ Tra ce pane

³ Trace Info. (trace information) pane

Summary Pane

This pane is displayed once the test is complete if you selected the corresponding feature (see Setting General OTDR Parameters on page 23). You can also select Summary (F1/F2 keys).

Pass/Fail status of fiber under test Length of fiber under test

Tested wavelengths

You can select an item with the

Information on

detected macrobends

up/down arrows and press Select to switch to Trace pane.

OTDR 51

Managing Test Results

Events Pane

This pane shows the list of events found during the test.

You can select Events (F1/F2 keys) to display the pane. Values appearing in white on a red background exceed the defined thresholds.

Wavelength of the displayed trace

Use left/right arrows to switch

between the different

Event type (see Description of

Event Types on page 97

wavelengths

You can select an item with up/down arrows and press Enter to

)

switch to Tra ce pane.

52 IDEAL

Managing Test Results

Trace Pane

You can select Trace (F1/F2 keys) to display the pane. Reflectance and loss values appear in white on a red background when they exceed the defined thresholds.

Wavelength of the displayed

Events (use up/down

arrows to view them in

turn)

Distance between span start and markers A and B

trace

Relative power at markers A and B (use left/right arrows to move markers)

Loss difference between markers A and B

Distance between markers A and B

Reflectance value

Loss value

OTDR 53

Managing Test Results

Trace Info. Pane

After acquiring a trace, you might want to view details about the acquisition. You can also include information about the tested fiber and job or add comments. This information is saved along with the trace.

Some of the information is common to all wavelengths (location A and B, cable ID and fiber ID). Some other is specific to the current wavelength (job ID, customer and comments).

If you add or delete information from the Trace Info. pane, the common information will be modified for all wavelengths. However, the specific information will be modified for the current wavelength only. You will have to add or delete the information manually for other wavelengths.

After entering the required data, you may save the contents (common and generic information) as a template. The next time you start an acquisition, the template is automatically used for all wavelengths, eliminating repetitive documentation operations.

You can select Trace Info. (F1/F2 keys) to display the pane.

54 IDEAL

Managing Test Results

Trace Info. Pane

To document results:

1. Once a trace has been acquired or reopened, press Menu, select

OTDR, and then press Select.

2. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Trace Info., then display the pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Use the arrows to select the item to modify. Modifiable items are followed by a keyboard icon.

4. Press Select to display the on-screen keyboard (for details about using keyboards, see Using Menus and Keypad on page 13).

5. Set the name/value, then press OK (F1/F2 key) to hide the keyboard.

6. If you want to save the contents as a template, select Save as

Tem pl at e.

To clear all the information from the editable fields:

Select Clear All (F1/F2 key).

OTDR 55

Managing Test Results

Using Markers

You can use markers (A and B) to view the position and level of an event on a trace.

Note: If you do not see the markers on your unit, they are probably hidden

(see Setting General OTDR Parameters on page 23).

To move a marker:

1. Press Menu, select OTDR, and then press Select.

2. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Trace, and then display

the pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Use Next Marker (F1/F2 key) to select the marker to move.

4. Use the left and right arrows to move the marker along the trace.

If a marker is moved too close to another, both will move together to ensure a minimum distance between them.

5. When you have finished, use the left/right function arrows until you see Exit, and then close the pane (F1/F2 key).

56 IDEAL

Managing Test Results

Using Zoom Controls

As soon as you select one of the zoom controls to change the scale of the graph, a magnifying glass icon appears. When the scale changes, the trace is always centered on the area surrounding the magnifying glass icon.

You can let the unit automatically adjust the zoom on the currently selected event or zoom in on or out of the graph using manual zoom. You can also return to the original graph scale.

Note: If you want the application to automatically zoom on the defined fiber

span, see Setting General OTDR Parameters on page 23.

Note: If you do not see the zoom controls on your unit, they are probably hidden

(see Setting General OTDR Parameters on page 23).

To automatically zoom in on the selected event:

1. Press Menu, select OTDR, and then press Select.

2. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Trace, and then display

the pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Press Select to zoom in. Press Select one more time to go to the second level of zoom.

You can switch between the two levels of zoom by pressing Select as needed.

OTDR 57

Managing Test Results

Using Zoom Controls

To view specific portions of the graph:

1. Press Menu, select OTDR, and then press Select.

2. Use the left/right function arrows until you see Trace, and then display

the pane (F1/F2 key).

3. Display the Manual Zoom pane (F1/F2 key).

4. Use the arrows to move the magnifying glass

icon to the area where you want to adjust the zoom.

5. Select the zoom parameters.

³ Press Zoom Mode (F1/F2 key) as many

times as needed to select the desired type of zoom.

Zoom along horizontal axis only

³ Press Zoom +/- (F1/F2 key) to switch from zoom-in to zoom-out

Zoom along vertical axis only

Zoom along both axes

mode and vice versa.

6. Press Select as many times as needed.

7. When you have finished:

Use the left/right function arrows until you see Exit, then close the pane (F1/F2 key).

Press Exit to close the pane.

58 IDEAL

Managing Test Results

Printing Test Results

To revert to the complete graph view:

1. From the Trace pane, use the left/right function arrows until you see

Full Trace.

2. Press Full Trace (F1/F2 key) to revert to complete graph view.

Note: If the Automatic zoom on fiber span feature is selected in the OTDR setup,

the application will zoom in between span start and span end.

Printing Test Results

With a Printek 2” printer, you can print results directly from the IDEAL OTDR.

Note: You cannot print ping or trace route test results from the IDEAL OTDR.

The unit communicates with the printer through its infrared port.

To print test results:

1. Select the printer (see Selecting a Printer on

page 19).

2. Once a trace has been acquired or reopened, press Menu, select OTDR, and then press Select.

3. Select Print (F1/F2 key).

OTDR 59

Managing Test Results

Opening Trace Files

You can open a maximum of two files at a time: a main trace and a reference trace (if the corresponding feature is selected).

Your unit can display traces saved in native (.trc) and Bellcore (.sor) formats.

To open trace files:

1. Press Menu, select OTDR, and then press Select.

2. Use the left/right function arrows until you

see Open, then display the pane (F1/F2 key).

3. If you enabled the reference trace feature (see Setting General OTDR Parameters on page 23), use the up/down arrows to select the selection button corresponding to the desired trace. Press Select to view the browser.

Note: If desired, press New Folder to create folders (for more information,

see Creating Folders on page 63).

4. Use the up/down arrows to navigate in the list. Use the right arrow to open a folder. Highlight the desired file and press Open (F1/F2 key).

5. If you enabled the reference trace feature, repeat steps 3 and 4 with the other file.

60 IDEAL

Managing Test Results

Saving Files

Each time you save a new file, the unit suggests a file name based on autonaming settings.

³ Trace files: By default, traces are saved in native (.trc) format, but you

can configure your unit to save them in Bellcore (.sor) format.

For more information on storage settings, see Setting Storage Parameters on page 34.

³ Image files: By default, images are saved in .jpg format, but you can

configure your unit to save them in .bmp format.

For more information on storage settings, see Setting Storage Parameters for Images on page 93.

³ Ping files. For information on storage settings, see Setting Storage

Parameters for Ping Tests on page 98.

³ Trace route files. For more information on storage settings, see Setting

Storage Parameters for Trace Route Tests on page 99.

OTDR 61

Managing Test Results

Saving Files

To save files:

1. Use the left/right function arrows until you

see Save, and then display the pane (F1/F2 key).

2. If desired, press New Folder to create folders (for more information, see Creating Folders on page 63).

3. If you want to modify the storage location, proceed as follows:

3a. Press the up arrow to access the file list.

3b. Use the up/down arrows to highlight the desired folder.

3c. Press Select to transfer the new path to the box at the bottom of

the screen.

4. If you want to modify the file name, press Select to display the

on-screen keyboard (for details about using keyboards, see Using

Menus and Keypad on page 13).

5. Enter the new name and press OK (F1/F2 key).

The unit will keep the last storage path defined.

62 IDEAL

Managing Test Results

Checking Available Memory

You can save up to 500 OTDR traces in the unit’s memory.

To view the available memory on your unit:

1. Press Menu, select File Manager/Info. >

File Manager, and then press Select.

2. Use the arrows to select either a storage medium or a folder to view both used space and free space.

Creating Folders

For easier data management, you can create folders from several panes in the application.

If you prefer, you can copy folders instead, see Copying, Renaming, or Deleting Files and Folders on page 64.

To create folders:

1. From the current window, select the location where you want to create

a folder as follows:

1a. Find the folder or disk:

Use the up/down arrows to navigate in the list and the right arrow to open a folder or explore a disk.

1b. Highlight the desired folder or disk.

2. Select New Folder (F1/F2 key).

3. Enter the new name and press OK (F1/F2 key).

OTDR 63

Managing Test Results

Copying, Renaming, or Deleting Files and Folders

You can copy, rename, or delete folders or single files directly from your unit.

To c op y f i le s:

1. Press Menu, select File Manager/Info. > File Manager, and then press

Select.

2. Select the desired file or folder as follows:

2a. Find the file or folder using the up/down

arrows to navigate in the list and the right arrow to open a folder.

2b. Highlight the desired file or folder and

press Select to select it.

3. Select Copy To (F1/F2 key).

Note: If the Copy To feature is not available, it is probably because the item is not

selected. Press Enter to select it.

4. Paste the file or folder as follows:

4a. Find the destination folder using the up/down arrows to navigate

in the list of folders and the right arrow to open a folder.

4b. Highlight the desired location and press either OK (F1/F2 key) or

Select to complete the process.

64 IDEAL

Managing Test Results

Copying, Renaming, or Deleting Files and Folders

To rename files or folders:

1. Press Menu, select File Manager/Info. > File Manager, and then press

Select.

2. Select the desired file or folder as follows:

2a. Find the file or folder using the up/down

arrows to navigate in the list and the right arrow to open a folder.

2b. Highlight the desired file or folder, but

do not select it (by pressing Enter).

3. Select Rename (F1/F2 key).

Note: If the Rename feature is not available, it is probably because the item is

selected. Simply press Enter to cancel the selection.

4. Enter the new name and press OK (F1/F2 key).

To delete files:

1. Press Menu, select File Manager/Info. > File Manager, and press

Select.

2. Select the file or folder as follows:

2a. Find the file or folder uing the up/down

arrows to navigate in the list and the right arrow to open a folder.

2b. Highlight the desired file or folder and

press Select to select it.

3. Select Delete Files (F1/F2 key).

Note: If the Delete Files feature is not available, it is probably because the item is

not selected. Press Enter to select it.

4. Answer Ye s (F1/F2 key) to confirm the deletion.

OTDR 65

Managing Test Results

Transferring Results to a Computer

You can transfer files from your OTDR to a USB memory drive, or a computer. You can also transfer data from a storage device or from a computer to your OTDR.

Your OTDR is equipped with two types of USB ports:

³ USB host port (type A connector) to connect USB memory drives

³ USB secondary port (type B connector) to transfer data directly

between your OTDR and a computer using a USB cable.

To avoid any problems and prevent malfunctioning, use only the USB drives approved by IDEAL.

IMPORTANT

66 IDEAL

Managing Test Results

Transferring Results to a Computer

To transfer files or folders between your unit and a USB memory drive:

1. Connect the USB memory drive to the USB host port.

2. Press Menu, select File Manager/Info. >

File Manager, and then press Select.

The list of drives and folders should include the memory drive (Removable Disk).

You can now manage your files and folders as you wish.

Note: You can connect a memory drive even while File Manager is open.

IMPORTANT

Transferred files are not automatically deleted from your unit.

3. When you have finished, remove the card or the memory drive.

OTDR 67

Managing Test Results

Transferring Results to a Computer

To transfer files or folders between your unit and a computer:

IMPORTANT

You must install Microsoft ActiveSync on the computer you want to use with your OTDR. Otherwise, you will not be able to transfer data.

Before connecting your unit to a computer, you must install the required software on the computer. For more information on the installation, refer to the Release Notes on the installation CD.

1. If it is not already done, install Microsoft ActiveSync 4.1 or later (available from the installation CD).

Follow the instructions given on the screen.

2. Connect the provided USB cable to the computer (type A connector) and your unit (type B connector).

Note: The computer and your unit do not need to be off when you connect the

cable.

68 IDEAL

Managing Test Results

Transferring Results to a Computer

3. Once ActiveSync indicates that the computer and the OTDR are connected, right-click the ActiveSync icon then select Explore to access the files and folders stored on your OTDR.

On the computer desktop, double-click My Computer. Double-click Mobile Device to access the files and folders stored on your unit.

You can now manage your files and folders as you wish.

4. When you have finished, close the Mobile Device window and disconnect the USB cable.

OTDR 69

8 Using Your OTDR as a Light

Source

You can use your OTDR as a light source. The source signal uses the OTDR ports. This signal can be:

³ continuous (constant power over the temperature range, but about

3 dB lower than maximum)

³ modulated (270 Hz, 1 kHz or 2 kHz, 270 Hz blink, 1 kHz blink or 2 kHz

blink).

Note: When you switch wavelengths, the modulation remains the same.

WARNING

When a source is active, its port emits invisible laser radiation. Avoid exposure and do not stare directly into the beam. Ensure that any unused port is properly protected with a cap.

OTDR 71

Using Your OTDR as a Light Source

Activating/Deactivating a Light Source

The Power Meter pane remains displayed when you use the source.

The source status is indicated with a LED in the status bar and with the Active indicator under the keypad.

Note: The Active indicator always shows the source,

VFL, or OTDR port status (even in FIP or idle mode).

To activate the light source:

1. Connect the fiber under test to the source port (see Cleaning and

Connecting Optical Fibers on page 22).

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

2. Press Menu, select Source, and then press Select.

3. Press Wav e length (F1/F2 key) to activate each available source in turn.

Use the arrows to open the wavelength/status list and select the desired wavelength.

To deactivate the light source:

Press Wa velengt h (F1/F2 key) until you get past the last source. The list displays Off.

Use the arrows to open the wavelength list and select Off.

72 IDEAL

Using Your OTDR as a Light Source

Modulating the Source Signal

When you turn the unit on, the signal is continuous (unmodulated) by default. When you switch wavelengths, the modulation remains the same. Modulation is indicated in the Source pane.

Available values are: Continuous, 270 Hz, 1 kHz, 2 kHz, 270 Hz blink, 1 kHz blink, or 2 kHz blink.

To change the signal modulation:

1. Activate the source if you want.

2. Press Modulation (F1/F2 key) to switch

between available modulations.

Use the arrows to open the list and select the desired modulation.

OTDR 73

9 Maintenance

To help ensure long, trouble-free operation:

³ Always clean fiber-optic connectors before using them.

³ Keep the unit free of dust.

³ Clean the unit casing and front panel with a cloth slightly dampened

with water.

³ Store unit at room temperature in a clean and dry area. Keep the unit

out of direct sunlight.

³ Avoid high humidity or significant temperature fluctuations.

³ Avoid unnecessary shocks and vibrations.

³ If any liquids are spilled on or into the unit, turn off the power

immediately and let the unit dry completely.

Use of controls, adjustments, and procedures for operation and maintenance other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.

WARNING

OTDR 75

Maintenance

Cleaning UI Connectors

Regular cleaning of UI connectors will help maintain optimum performance. There is no need to disassemble the unit.

If any damage occurs to internal connectors, the module casing will have to be opened and a new calibration will be required.

To clean UI connectors:

1. Remove the UI from the instrument to expose the connector baseplate

and ferrule.

IMPORTANT

Tur n

Push

2. Moisten a 2.5 mm cleaning tip with one drop of isopropyl alcohol (alcohol may leave traces if used abundantly).

3. Slowly insert the cleaning tip into the UI adapter until it comes out on the other side (a slow clockwise rotating movement may help).

Pull

4. Gently turn the cleaning tip one full turn, then continue to turn as you withdraw it.

76 IDEAL

Cleaning UI Connectors

5. Repeat steps 3 to 4 with a dry cleaning tip.

Note: Make sure you don’t touch the soft end of the cleaning tip.

6. Clean the ferrule in the connector port as follows:

6a. Deposit one drop of isopropyl alcohol on a lint-free wiping cloth.

IMPORTANT

Isopropyl alcohol may leave residues if used abundantly or left to evaporate (about 10 seconds).

Avoid contact between the tip of the bottle and the wiping cloth, and dry the surface quickly.

6b. Gently wipe the connector and ferrule.

6c. With a dry lint-free wiping cloth, gently wipe the same surfaces to

ensure that the connector and ferrule are perfectly dry.

6d. Verify connector surface with a portable fiber-optic microscope or

video inspection probe.

Maintenance

WARNING

Verifying the surface of the connector WHILE THE UNIT IS ACTIVE WILL result in permanent eye damage.

7. Put the UI back onto the instrument (push and turn clockwise).

8. Throw out cleaning tips and wiping cloths after one use.

OTDR 77

Maintenance

Recharging Main Batteries

The charge status of both batteries is shown on the Unit Information pane (press Menu, select File Manager/Info. > Information, and then press Select).

The charge status is also indicated by the LEDs on the left side of the unit:

³ Batteries are not charged at the factory. Fully charge them

(about 3 hours if unit is off) before using the unit for the first time.

Status LED Battery Charge Status

Green Fully charged

Red Charging

Yellow Error

IMPORTANT

³ Batteries function and charge properly between 0 °C and 45 °C

(32°F and 113°F). Batteries will not charge if the temperature is below -10 °C (14 °F) or above 45 °C (113 °F).

³ Never store at temperatures above 60 °C (140 °F).

³ Charge only with specified charger.

To recharge the main batteries:

Connect the unit to a power outlet (or car outlet) using the AC adapter/charger. The charge cycle will start and end automatically.

78 IDEAL

Maintenance

Replacing Batteries

As soon as you remove the battery compartment door, the unit will turn itself off.

WARNING

Do not throw batteries into fire or water and do not short-circuit the batteries’ electrical contact. Do not disassemble.

To replace main batteries:

1. Open the battery compartment door located

at the back of the unit.

2. Lift the mobile part of the battery lock and turn it 90

The base of the battery lock will fit in the groove between the two batteries.

3. Replace both batteries, respecting the polarity.

4. Lift the mobile part of the battery lock and turn it 90

to secure the batteries in place.

clockwise.

Battery

lock

counterclockwise

For optimum reliability, put the battery lock back in place, as shown in the figure above.

5. Close the battery compartment door; you cannot turn on the unit if the battery door is open.

OTDR 79

Maintenance

Recalibrating the Unit

Manufacturing and service center calibrations are based on the ISO/IEC 17025 Standard, which states that calibration documents must not contain a recommended calibration interval, unless this has been previously agreed upon with the customer.

Validity of specifications depends on operating conditions. For example, the calibration validity period can be longer or shorter depending on the intensity of use, environmental conditions and unit maintenance. You should determine the adequate calibration interval for your unit according to your accuracy requirements.

Under normal use, IDEAL recommends calibrating your unit every year.

80 IDEAL

Maintenance

Upgrading the IDEAL OTDR Software

The necessary software has been preinstalled and configured at the factory. However, you may have to upgrade the software when new versions become available.

For the upgrade, you will need:

³ the installation CD (includes ActiveSync installation kit)

³ a computer equipped with a USB port; Windows 2000 or Windows XP

must be installed on the computer.

³ an IDEAL unit

³ a USB cable

IMPORTANT

You must install Microsoft ActiveSync on the computer you want to use with your OTDR. Otherwise, you will not be able to upgrade the software.

Before connecting your unit to a computer, you must install the required software on the computer. For more information on the installation, refer to the Release Notes on the installation CD.

OTDR 81

Maintenance

Upgrading the IDEAL OTDR Software

To upgrade the software:

1. Turn on the computer and insert the installation CD in the CD-ROM

drive.

2. Follow the on-screen instructions. All the necessary components, including ActiveSync, will be installed on your computer.

3. Once the installation is complete, turn on the OTDR.

4. Connect the provided USB cable to the computer (type A end) and

your OTDR (type B end). ActiveSync automatically opens and establishes the connection.

5. From the computer, on the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, and then go to Programs > IDEAL > IDEAL Handheld Instrument Software Manager.

6. Use Add Programs to install new versions and follow the on-screen instructions.

For more information, refer to the online help of the Handheld Instrument Software Manager (from the Help menu).

7. When the installation is complete, disconnect the USB cable.

82 IDEAL

Maintenance

Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only)

Recycle or dispose of your product (including electric and electronic accessories) properly, in accordance with local regulations. Do not dispose of it in ordinary garbage receptacles.

This equipment was sold after August 13, 2005 (as identified by the black rectangle).

³ Unless otherwise noted in a separate agreement between IDEAL and a

customer, distributor, or commercial partner, please return the equipment either to IDEAL or the business partner at which the equipment has been purchased.

³ Except for reasons of safety or environmental benefit, equipment

manufactured by IDEAL, under its brand name, is generally designed to facilitate dismantling and reclamation.

For complete recycling/disposal procedures and contact information, visit the IDEAL Web site at www.europe.idealindustries.de.

OTDR 83

10 Troubleshooting

Solving Common Problems

The table following presents common problems and their solution.

Problem Possible Cause Solution

Impossible to turn on unit. ³ You did not press Pwr

long enough.

³ Main batteries

discharged.

³ Battery compartment

door is open.

³ One of the two batteries

is missing.

³ Weather too cold.

The display is almost blank when you turn on the unit.

Batteries do not charge as expected.

A battery status LED is yellow.

The application displays a message indicating that a “Non-resolved fiber end” event has been found.

Brightness may need some adjustment.

³ Temperature is too

high.

³ Battery is incorrectly

connected.

Battery is defective. Contact IDEAL or replace the

The fiber under test is too long.

³ Press Pwr for 2 seconds.

³ Charge batteries by

connecting the AC adapter/charger.

³ Close battery

compartment door.

³ Insert 2 batteries and

replace battery compartment door.

Press to adjust brightness properly.

³ Ensure temperature is

within specifications.

³ Ensure battery is

connected properly.

battery.

Ensure that the fiber under test is shorter than the maximum length the OTDR can measure.

OTDR 85

Troubleshooting

Solving Common Problems

Problem Possible Cause Solution

The unit is not responding. Shut down the unit by

pressing Pwr and holding it down.

You will hear a first beep; release the key after you hear a second beep.

Turn the unit on again to reset it.

You can no longer view the OTDR application.

Shut down the unit by pressing Pwr and holding it down.

You will hear a first beep; release the key after you hear a second beep.

Press simultaneously

Pwr, Exit, and Menu and

hold them a few seconds until you see Maintenance Mode on the screen. It may take a few seconds before the maintenance menu appears.

Use the up/down arrows to highlight Restore System Disk, and then press Select.

When the application prompts you to confirm deletion of all data, use the up/down arrows to highlight Yes, and then press Select.

Your unit will restart automatically when update is complete.

86 IDEAL

Troubleshooting

Solving Common Problems

Problem Possible Cause Solution

The application displays a message indicating that a “live fiber error” occurred.

Light has been detected on the OTDR port during the acquisition or while you were monitoring a fiber in real-time mode.

Disconnect the fiber from the OTDR port. Press OK to close the message.

Start another acquisition without any fiber connected to the OTDR. The message about live fiber error should not appear and the OTDR trace should look “normal”.

If you still see the message about live fiber error even if no fiber is connected to the OTDR, contact IDEAL.

Never connect a live fiber to the OTDR port. Any incoming signal greater than –40 dBm will affect the OTDR acquisition. Any incoming signal greater than –20 dBm could damage your OTDR permanently.

OTDR 87

Troubleshooting

Obtaining Online Help

Context-sensitive help is conveniently available at all times to guide you through the use of your unit.

To obtain online help about the current function:

On the unit keypad, press the ? key.

To navigate in the online help:

³ Use up/down arrows to scroll through help page.

³ Use left/right arrows to switch between hyperlinks (underlined items)

and press Select to link to selected help page.

³ Press Next Page to switch between available topics in sequence.

³ Press Help Menu to display the main menu of help topics.

³ On the unit keypad, press Exit to return to the pane.

88 IDEAL

Troubleshooting

Customer Support and Technical Assistance

To obtain after-sales service or technical support for this product, contact IDEAL at one of the following numbers.All inquiries regarding service, calibration and technical assistance should be directed to the Customer Service department:

IDEAL Industries, Inc.

Corporate Headquarters Becker Place Sycamore, IL 60178, USA

North and South America Sales and Service

9145 Balboa Avenue San Diego, CA 92123, USA

IDEAL Industries (Canada), Inc.

33 Fuller Road Ajax, Ontario L1S 2E1, Canada

Tel.: 815-895-5181 / 800-435-0705 Fax: 815-895-9470 / 800-533-4483 Ideal@idealindustries.com

Tel: 858-279-2955 / 800-854-2708 Fax: 858-278-5141

Tel.: 905-683-3400 / 800-527-9105 Fax: 905-683-0209 Ideal_Canada@idealindustries.com

IDEAL Industries (U.K.) Ltd.

225 Europa Boulevard Gemini Business Park Warrington, Cheshire, WA5 7TN, England

IDEAL Industries GmbH

Gutenbergstrasse 10 D-85737 Ismaning, Germany

IDEAL Industries (France)

Parc Burospace Bâtiment 7 Route de Gisy 91571 Bièvres Cedex, France

OTDR 89

Tel.: +44 (0) 1925 444446 Fax: +44 (0) 1925 445501 Ideal_UK@idealindustries.com

Tel.: +49-89-... Fax: +49-89-99686-111 Ideal_Germany@idealindustries.com

Tel.: 01 69 35 54 76 Fax: 01 60 19 00 48 Frederic.Fonfrede@idealindustries.com

Troubleshooting

Customer Support and Technical Assistance

IDEAL Industries Australia

Level 6 / 75-85 Elizabeth St Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia GPO BOX 5124 Sydney, NSW 2001, Australia

IDEAL Industries China L.L.C

Unit 505, Tower W1, The Towers, Oriental Plaza No. 1 East Chang An Avenue, Dong Cheng District Beijing, 100738, China

IDEAL Industries Brasil Ltda.

América Business Park Av. Marginal do Rio Pinheiros, 5200 - 201/F São Paulo - SP, Brasil

To accelerate the process, please have information such as the name and the serial number (see the product identification label), as well as a description of your problem, close at hand.

Tel.: 1300 765 800 / 61300 765 800 Fax: 1300 765 801 / 61300 765 801 Mobile: 0405 123 100 / 61405 123 100 Ideal_Australia@idealindustries.com

Tel.: 86-10... / 86-10... Fax: 86-10-8518-3143 Ideal_China@idealindustries.com

Tel.: +55-1... (main) /

+55-11-3759-8776 (tech support)

Fax: +55-11-3759-8775 Ideal_Brazil@idealindustries.com

P/N

**************** A

542392-3D

S/N

Made in Canada QST442B

January 2020

Ver.

Mfg. date

465 Godin Avenue Vanier (Quebec) G1M 3G7 CANADA

33-960-X

90 IDEAL

Troubleshooting

Transportation

You may also be requested to provide the firmware or software version numbers.

To find out the firmware or software version numbers:

1. Press Menu, select File Manager/Info. >

Information, and press Select.

2. Press About (F1/F2 key).

Transportation

Maintain a temperature range within specifications when transporting the unit. Transportation damage can occur from improper handling. The following steps are recommended to minimize the possibility of damage:

³ Pack the unit in its original packing material when shipping.

³ Avoid high humidity or large temperature fluctuations.

³ Keep the unit out of direct sunlight.

³ Avoid unnecessary shocks and vibrations.

OTDR 91

IDEAL INDUSTRIES OTDR Technical Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Certification Information

1 Introducing the IDEAL OTDR

Main Features

Power Sources

Typical Applications

OTDR Basic Principles

Conventions

2 Safety Information

Laser Safety Information (Units without VFL)

Laser Safety Information (Units with VFL)

Electrical Safety Information

Turning the Unit On and Off

Using Menus and Keypad

4 Customizing Your OTDR

Selecting the Distance Units

Selecting the Language of Operation

Setting the Date and Time

Adjusting the Brightness

Selecting a Printer

Configuring the Power Management Settings

5 Setting Up Your OTDR

Installing the Universal Interface (UI)

Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers

Setting General OTDR Parameters

Setting the Acquisition Parameters

Setting Analysis Parameters

Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds

Setting Macrobend Parameters

Setting Storage Parameters

6Testing Fibers

Testing in Auto Mode

Testing in Fault Finder Mode

Testing in Manual (Advanced) Mode

Monitoring Fiber in Real Time Mode

Launch Conditions for Multimode Measurements

7 Managing Test Results

Summary Pane

Events Pane

Trace Pane

Trace Info. Pane

Using Markers

Using Zoom Controls

Printing Test Results

Opening Trace Files

Saving Files

Checking Available Memory

Creating Folders

Copying, Renaming, or Deleting Files and Folders

Transferring Results to a Computer

Activating/Deactivating a Light Source

Modulating the Source Signal

9 Maintenance

Cleaning UI Connectors

Recharging Main Batteries

Replacing Batteries

Recalibrating the Unit

Upgrading the IDEAL OTDR Software

Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only)

10 Troubleshooting

Solving Common Problems

Obtaining Online Help

Customer Support and Technical Assistance

Transportation