ftb-200 user guide

USER GUIDE

COMPACT MODULARPLATFORM

FTB-200NETWORK TESTING

ii FTB-200

Copyright © 2006 EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, be it electronically, mechanically, or by any other means such as photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. (EXFO).

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

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

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

Trademarks

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

Units of Measurement

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

Patents

FASTEST is protected by US patent(s) 5,305,078 and/or 5,455,672. EXFO’s Universal Interface is protected by US patent 6,612,750.

Contents

Contents

Certification Information ....................................................................................................... ix

1 Introducing the FTB-200 .............................................................................. 1Main Features .........................................................................................................................1LED Panel Description .............................................................................................................4Keypad Description .................................................................................................................5Card Reader and Ports ............................................................................................................6Power Sources ........................................................................................................................7Conventions ............................................................................................................................8

2 Safety Information ....................................................................................... 9Laser Safety information .........................................................................................................9Electrical Safety Information .................................................................................................12

3 Getting Started with Your Unit ................................................................. 15Installing or Upgrading the Applications ..............................................................................15Inserting and Removing Test Modules .................................................................................17Installing a USB Keyboard or Mouse .....................................................................................22Configuring the Pinter .........................................................................................................23Turning On or Off the Unit ....................................................................................................25Starting Module Applications ...............................................................................................26

4 Setting Up Your Unit .................................................................................. 27Recalibrating the Touchscreen ..............................................................................................27Adjusting Microphone and Speaker ......................................................................................28Adjusting Brightness .............................................................................................................29Selecting the Language of Operation ...................................................................................30Setting Date and Time Formats .............................................................................................31Selecting the Startup Application .........................................................................................32Configuring the Shortcut Buttons .........................................................................................34Setting Other Parameters ......................................................................................................34

Compact Modular Platform iii

Contents

5 Using the Built-In Power Meter and VFL ...................................................35Accessing the Built-In Power Meter ......................................................................................35Nulling Electrical Offsets .......................................................................................................37Setting Thresholds and Correction Factors ............................................................................38Setting Reference Values on Your Power Meter ....................................................................40Measuring Power or Loss ......................................................................................................41Reloading Power Meter Results ............................................................................................44Clearing Power Measurements from the Display ..................................................................45Creating and Printing a Results Report .................................................................................46Identifying Fiber Faults Visually with the VFL ........................................................................49

6 Inspecting Fibers with a Probe ..................................................................51Inspecting a Fiber End ..........................................................................................................51Capturing an Image ..............................................................................................................53

7 Introducing the OTDR .................................................................................55Main Features .......................................................................................................................56Trace Acquisition Modes .......................................................................................................57Data Post-Processing ............................................................................................................57Bidirectional Averaging Utility ..............................................................................................57Available OTDR Models .........................................................................................................58OTDR Basic Principles ............................................................................................................60

8 Setting Up Your Optical Time Domain Reflectometer ..............................63Installing the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI) .........................................................................63Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers ...............................................................................64Naming Trace Files Automatically ........................................................................................65

9 Testing Fibers in Auto Mode ......................................................................67Acquiring Traces ...................................................................................................................67Activating or Deactivating the Fault Finder Features .............................................................71

10 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode ..............................................................73Setting the Autorange Acquisition Time ..............................................................................77Setting the IOR, RBS Coefficient and Helix Factor .................................................................78Setting Distance Range, Pulse Width and Acquisition Time ..................................................80Enabling the High-Resolution Feature ...................................................................................84Enabling or Disabling Analysis After Acquisition ...................................................................85Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds ..................................................................................................86Setting a Default Span Start and Span End ...........................................................................88

iv FTB-200

Contents

11 Testing Fibers in Template Mode ............................................................... 91Template Principle .................................................................................................................91Restrictions of Template Mode ..............................................................................................92Acquiring the Reference Trace ..............................................................................................94Acquiring Traces in Template Mode ......................................................................................95Selecting a Reference Trace .................................................................................................101

12 Customizing Your Optical Time Domain Reflectometer ......................... 103Customizing the Acquisition Distance Range Values ...........................................................103Customizing the Acquisition Time Values ...........................................................................105

13 Analyzing Traces and Events ................................................................... 107Opening Trace Files .............................................................................................................107Trace Display and Events Table Description .........................................................................109Locating Events in the Trace Display and Events Table ........................................................113Customizing the Events Table .............................................................................................114Setting Trace Display Parameters ........................................................................................116Selecting the Measurement Unit .........................................................................................118Displaying or Hiding a Trace ...............................................................................................121Clearing Traces from the Display .........................................................................................123Automatically Zooming in on the Fiber Span ......................................................................124Using Zoom Controls ..........................................................................................................125Viewing and Modifying Current Trace Settings ...................................................................127Inserting Events ..................................................................................................................132Deleting Events ...................................................................................................................134Setting the Analysis Detection Thresholds ..........................................................................136Analyzing or Reanalyzing a Trace ........................................................................................139Analyzing the Fiber on a Specific Fiber Span .......................................................................141Swapping Traces .................................................................................................................142

14 Analyzing the Results Manually .............................................................. 143Using Markers .....................................................................................................................143Getting Event Distances and Relative Powers ......................................................................145Getting Event Loss (Four-Point and Least-Square Approximation) ......................................146Getting Attenuation (Two-Point and Least-Square Approximation) ....................................150Getting Reflectance ............................................................................................................152Getting Optical Return Loss (ORL) .......................................................................................153

15 Managing Trace Files from the OTDR Test Application .......................... 155Saving a Trace in a Different Format ...................................................................................155OTDR Trace File Compatibility .............................................................................................156Copying, Moving, Renaming or Deleting Trace Files ..........................................................158

Compact Modular Platform v

Contents

16 Creating and Printing Trace Reports .......................................................159Documenting Results ..........................................................................................................159Printing a Report ................................................................................................................162

17 Using the OTDR as a Light Source or VFL ................................................165

18 Description of Event Types ......................................................................169Span Start ..........................................................................................................................169Span End ...........................................................................................................................169Continuous Fiber ...............................................................................................................170End of Analysis ..................................................................................................................171Non-Reflective Event ..........................................................................................................172Reflective Event .................................................................................................................173Positive Event .....................................................................................................................174Launch Level ......................................................................................................................175Fiber Section ......................................................................................................................176Merged Reflective Event ....................................................................................................177Echo ..................................................................................................................................179Reflective Event (Possible Echo) .........................................................................................180

19 Introducing the FTB-3930 MultiTest Module ...........................................181Main Features .....................................................................................................................181Typical Applications ............................................................................................................182

20 Customizing Your MultiTest Module ........................................................183

21 Setting Up Your MultiTest Module ...........................................................185Installing the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI) .......................................................................185Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers .............................................................................186Setting Autonaming Scheme ..............................................................................................187Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds ................................................................................................189

22 Measuring Power or Loss .........................................................................193Defining the List of Favorite Wavelengths ...........................................................................194Nulling Electrical Offsets .....................................................................................................196Referencing Your Power Meter to a Source .........................................................................197Measuring Power or Loss ....................................................................................................200

23 Measuring Optical Return Loss ................................................................203Performing ORL Reference and Setting ORL Zero Value ......................................................205Performing and Saving ORL Measurements ........................................................................207

vi FTB-200

Contents

24 Performing Automated IL/ORL/Length Measurements (FASTEST) ............ 211Setting Up the FASTEST ........................................................................................................212Referencing Units for FASTEST .............................................................................................214Performing the FASTEST .......................................................................................................219

25 Managing Test Results ............................................................................. 223Viewing and Deleting Results .............................................................................................223Customizing Result Display .................................................................................................225

26 Using a Light Source ................................................................................ 227

27 Identifying Fiber Faults Visually .............................................................. 229

28 Communicating with Other Users ........................................................... 231Sending and Receiving Text Messages .................................................................................231Communicating by Voice ....................................................................................................234

29 Managing Data ......................................................................................... 237

30 Testing Network Connections ................................................................. 243Performing a Ping Test ........................................................................................................243Performing a Trace Route Test .............................................................................................246Exporting the Results ..........................................................................................................248

31 Maintenance ............................................................................................. 249Cleaning EUI Connectors ....................................................................................................250Cleaning Detector Ports ......................................................................................................252Recharging the Main Battery ..............................................................................................253Recalibrating the Battery ....................................................................................................255Replacing Battery ................................................................................................................258Verifying Your OTDR ...........................................................................................................259Recalibrating the Unit .........................................................................................................267Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only) ..................................................268

32 Troubleshooting ....................................................................................... 269Solving Common Problems .................................................................................................269OTDR ..................................................................................................................................271MultiTest .............................................................................................................................272Finding Information on the EXFO Web Site ........................................................................275Contacting the Technical Support Group ............................................................................276Transportation ....................................................................................................................276

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Contents

33 Warranty ....................................................................................................277General Information ...........................................................................................................277Liability ...............................................................................................................................278Exclusions ...........................................................................................................................278Certification ........................................................................................................................278Service and Repairs .............................................................................................................279EXFO Service Centers Worldwide ........................................................................................280

A Technical Specifications ............................................................................281FTB-200 Compact Modular Platform ..................................................................................281OTDR ..................................................................................................................................282MultiTest .............................................................................................................................284

Index ...............................................................................................................285

viii FTB-200

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 EXFO 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.

CSA Information

This unit is certified by the CSA (certificate number 162451) and was evaluated according to applicable CSA and UL standards (as confirmed by “C-US” mark) as well as applicable IEC standards for use in Canada, the United States, and other countries.

Compact Modular Platform ix


Application of Council Directive(s): 73/23/EEC - The Low Voltage Directive

89/336/EEC - The EMC Directive

Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO ELECTRO-OPTICAL ENG.

Manufacturer’s Address: 400 Godin Avenue, Quebec (Quebec)

Canada G1M 2K2

(418) 683-0211

Equipment Type/Environment: Industrial Scientific Equipment

Trade Name/Model No.: FTB-150 Compact OTDR and FTB-200

Compact Modular Platform

Standard(s) to which Conformity is Declared:

EN 61010-1:2001 Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use, Part 1: General Requirements.

EN 55022: 1998/ A2: 2003

Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Disturbance Characteristics of Information Technology Equipment.

EN 60825-1:1994 / A2: 2001

Safety of laser products – Part 1: Equipment classifications, requirements, and user’s guide

EN 61326:1997/ A3: 2003

Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Use - EMC Requirements

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

ManufacturerSignature:

Full Name: Stephen Bull, E. Eng

Position: Vice-President Research and

DevelopmentAddress: 400 Godin Avenue, Quebec (Quebec)

Canada

Date: February 17, 2006

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

x FTB-200


Application of Council Directive(s): 73/23/EEC - The Low Voltage Directive89/336/EEC - The EMC Directive

Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO ELECTRO-OPTICAL ENG. Manufacturer’s Address: 400 Godin Avenue, Vanier (Quebec)

Canada G1M 2K2 (418) 683-0211Equipment Type/Environment: Industrial Scientific EquipmentTrade Name/Model No.: FTB-7000B, FTB-7000D, FTB-74000C Optical

Time Domain Reflectometer


EN 60825-1:1994/ A2: 2001

Safety of laser products – Part 1: Equipment classifications, requirements, and user’s guide

EN 55022: 1998/A1: 2000

EN 61326:1997/A2: 2001

Limits and methods of measurement of radio disturbance characteristics of information technology equipment

Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Use – EMC Requirements


Manufacturer

Signature:


Position: Vice-President Research andDevelopment

Address: 400 Godin Avenue Vanier, Quebec, Canada

Date: December 12, 2003


Compact Modular Platform xi


Application of Council Directive(s): 73/23/EEC - The Low Voltage Directive 89/336/EEC - The EMC Directive

Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO ELECTRO-OPTICAL ENGINEERING INC. Manufacturer’s Address: 400 Godin Avenue

Vanier, Quebec Canada G1M 2K2 (418) 683-0211

Equipment Type/Environment: Industrial Scientific Equipment Trade Name/Model No.: FTB-3930 MultiTest Module


EN 60825-1: 1994/ A2: 2001

Safety of Laser Products-Part 1: Equipment Classification, Requirement, and User’s guide

EN 61326: 1997/ A2: 2001

Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Use - EMC Requirements

EN 55022: 1998/ A1: 2000

Limits and methods of measurement of radio disturbance characteristics of information technology equipment


Manufacturer

Signature:


Position: Vice-President Research and Development

Address: 400 Godin Avenue Vanier, Quebec, Canada Date: July 20, 2004


xii FTB-200

1 Introducing the FTB-200Main Features

The FTB-200 Compact Modular Platform has the following characteristics:

2-slot platform

Multitasking

Touchscreen (LCD and touchscreen optimized for outdoor use available in option)

USB ports (host and client)

Ethernet port

CompactFlash card reader

Autonomy (8 hours)

Windows CE

Ruggedness (GR-196-CORE)

Possibility to connect a probe

Optional built-in power meter and VFL

The Compact Modular Platform supports the following modules:

FTB-7000B/7000D/70000C OTDR

FTB-3930 MultiTest

Compact Modular Platform 1

Introducing the FTB-200Main Features

LEDs

Keypad

Brightness button

Knob with ENTER button

On/Off button

Touchscreen

Keypad

Front panel

USB host port

RJ-45 port

DC connector

Fiber Inspection

Probe port

USB client port

Headset/microphone port

Left panel Right panel

Card reader

2 FTB-200

Introducing the FTB-200Main Features

Built-in power meterVFL

Batterycompartment

Module slots

Top panel

Bottom panel

Retaining screws


Introducing the FTB-200LED Panel Description

LED Panel DescriptionThe LED panel located on the front of the unit provides you with the status of your unit.

Note: The function of certain LEDs vary with the applications.

LED Status Meaning

Green Unit is on.

Off Unit is off.

Green Unit powered or not by AC and battery fully charged.

Green, flashing Battery is charging.

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

Red Battery error.

Off Unit is off or unit is not powered by AC and battery level is above the “low-battery threshold”.

Flashing

Laser status LED

At least one module emits an optical signal.

Off No modules emit signal.

Green

Result status (from application currently displayed).

Pass (result does not exceed the defined threshold)

Red Fail

4 FTB-200

Introducing the FTB-200Keypad Description

Keypad DescriptionThe keypad of your unit gives you access to various functions at all times. The table below shows an overview of their purpose.

Note: The function of certain buttons vary with the applications.

Button Meaning

First shortcut button. Starts the associated application (see Configuring the Shortcut Buttons on page 34).

Second shortcut button. Starts the associated application or the built-in power meter application (see Configuring the Shortcut Buttons on page 34).

Start fiber probe application.

Switch from one task to another.

Turn on and off your unit:

Suspend: hold down button a few seconds until the unit beeps once.

Shutdown: hold down button until the unit beeps twice.

For more information, see Turning On or Off the Unit on page 25.

Adjust screen brightness.

Lock/Start acquisition/F1 button (depends on application).

Mute/Move markers/F2 button (depends on application).


Introducing the FTB-200Card Reader and Ports

Card Reader and PortsYour unit is equipped with a card reader (for Bluetooth wireless and CompactFlash cards) and communication ports (for probe, mouse, keyboard, hub, etc.).

The card reader is located on the left panel of the unit.

There are four ports, all located on the right panel of the unit:

8-pin connector to connect the fiber inspection probe.

USB host port (type A connector) to connect USB memory drives, keyboards, mouse devices, etc.

USB client (secondary) port (type B connector) to connect a USB cable for data transfer between your unit and a computer.

RJ-45 port to connect your unit to an Ethernet network.

Report/Next λ or trace/F3 button (depends on application).

Save/F4 button (depends on application).

Button Meaning

6 FTB-200

Introducing the FTB-200Power Sources

Power SourcesThe unit operates with the following power sources:

AC adapter/charger (connected to a standard power outlet–indoor use only).

rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery (automatically takes over if you disconnect the AC adapter/charger)

Possible to switch from AC adapter/charger to battery power or vice versa without affecting operation

Automatic recharge when AC adapter/charger is connected

Rechargeable battery (for clock and RAM, used when Lithium-Ion battery and AC power are both unavailable). The clock battery has an autonomy of approximately 15 minutes after which the unit will restart exactly as if you performed a shutdown (button held down until the unit beeps twice).

IMPORTANTThe unit will function only if the battery is present and the battery door is in place (even if you use it with the AC adapter/charger).


Introducing the FTB-200Conventions

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

WARNINGIndicates 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.

CAUTIONIndicates 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.

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

IMPORTANTRefers to information about this product you should not overlook.

8 FTB-200

2 Safety Information

Laser Safety informationThe laser class of your unit depends on the modules that you use.

WARNINGDo 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.

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


Safety InformationLaser Safety information

Units with VFL (OTDR, MultiTest Module and Built-in 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:

OTDR Models 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.

If VFL option is available

QST4

98C

LASER RADIATIONAVOID DIRECT EYE EXPOSURE

CLASS 3R LASER PRODUCT

IEC 60825-1:1993+A2:200121 CFR 1040.10

λ: 650 ±10 nmPout maximum < 5mW (into free space)

Affixed toside of OTDR and MultiTest modules.

Affixed to back of unit(under the stand).

Indicated underVFL port

On MultiTest modules

On OTDRmodules

Affixed to side of module

10 FTB-200

Safety InformationLaser Safety information

MultiTest Modules Models without VFL

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

The following labels indicate that a product contains a Class 1 source:

Note: Labels shown for information purposes only. They are not affixed to your product.

CLASS 1LASER PRODUCT

CLASS 1LED PRODUCT


Safety InformationElectrical Safety Information

Electrical Safety InformationIf you need to ensure that the unit is completely powered off, disconnect the power cable and remove the batteries.

WARNINGUse the external power supply indoors only.

Position the unit so that the air can circulate freely around it.

Operation of any electrical instrument around flammable gases or fumes constitutes a major safety hazard.

To avoid electrical shock, do not operate the unit if any part of the outer surface (covers, panels, etc.) is damaged.

Only authorized personnel should carry out adjustments, maintenance or repair of opened units under voltage. A person qualified in first aid must also be present. Do not replace any components while power cable and battery are connected.

Capacitors inside the unit may be charged even if the unit has been disconnected from its electrical supply.

12 FTB-200

Safety InformationElectrical Safety Information

The following label is affixed to the unit:

Equipment Ratings

Temperature

Operation

Storage

0 °C to 50 °Ca (32 °F to 122 °F)

-40 °C to 60 °Cb (-40 °F to 140 °F)

a. With FTB-8XXX modules, the maximum operation temperature is 40 °C (104 °F).b. With FTB-8XXX modules, the maximum storage temperature is 50 °C (122 °F).

Relative humidityc

unit

AC adapter

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

≤ 95 % non-condensing

0 % to 80 % non-condensing

Maximum operation altitude 5000 m (16405 ft)

Pollution degree 2

Installation category II

Power supply ratingd

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

100 V to 240 V (50 Hz/60 Hz)maximum input current 1.6 A

Located on unit’s right panel


3 Getting Started with Your UnitInstalling or Upgrading the Applications

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

For the installation or upgrade, you will need:

the installation CD (includes ActiveSync installation kit)

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

an FTB-200 unit

a USB cable

Note: For more information on the installation, refer to the Release Notes on the installation CD.


Getting Started with Your UnitInstalling or Upgrading the Applications

To install or upgrade the applications:

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 your unit. If necessary, exit the OTDR CE and MultiTest CE applications.

4. Connect the provided USB cable to the computer (type A end) and your unit (type B end). ActiveSync automatically opens and establishes the connection.

5. From the computer, on the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, then click Programs > EXFO > Handheld Instrument Software Manager.

6. Use Add Programs to install new versions. 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 installation is complete, simply disconnect the USB cable.

16 FTB-200

Getting Started with Your UnitInserting and Removing Test Modules

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

To insert a module into the Compact Modular Platform:

1. Turn off your unit.

2. Position the Compact Modular Platform so that its front panel is facing you.

CAUTIONNever insert or remove a module while the Compact Modular Platform is turned on. This will result in immediate and irreparable damage to both the module and unit.

WARNINGWhen the laser safety LED ( ) is flashing, at least one of your modules is emitting an optical signal. Please check all modules, as it might not be the one you are currently using.



3. Take the module and place it vertically so that the retaining screw hole is at the left of the connector pins.

4. Insert the protruding edges of the module into the grooves of the unit’s module slot.

5. Push the module all the way to the bottom of the slot, until the retaining screw makes contact with the unit casing.

6. Place the Compact Modular Platform so that its bottom panel is facing you.

CAUTIONInserting a module upside down could result in permanent damage to the module, as the connector pins might be bent.

18 FTB-200


7. While applying slight pressure to the module, use a coin to turn the retaining screw clockwise until it is tightened. This will secure the module into its “seated” position.

When you turn on the unit, the startup sequence will automatically detect the module.

Turn retaining screws clockwise

Bottom panel



To remove a module from the Compact Modular Platform:

1. Turn off your unit.

2. Position the Compact Modular Platform so that the bottom panel is facing you.

3. Using a coin, turn the retaining screw counterclockwise until it stops. The module will be slowly released from the slot.

4. Place the Compact Modular Platform so that the top panel is facing you.

Turn retaining screws clockwise

Bottom panel

20 FTB-200


5. Hold the module by its sides or by the handle (NOT by the connector) and pull it out.

6. Cover empty slots with the supplied protective covers.

CAUTIONPulling out a module by a connector could seriously damage both the module and connector. Always pull out a module by its casing.


Getting Started with Your UnitInstalling a USB Keyboard or Mouse

Installing a USB Keyboard or MouseWhen you are required to enter alphanumeric data, an on-screen keyboard will be displayed. However, you can also use a hardware keyboard.

You can also add a mouse.

To install a USB keyboard or mouse on your unit:

Connect the keyboard or the mouse to the type A USB port, located on the right side of the unit.

Note: It is not necessary to turn off the unit before connecting the keyboard or the mouse. The software will automatically detect its presence.

Note: Even if a keyboard is connected, the touchscreen keyboard will still be displayed when working in ToolBox CE.

Your mouse or keyboard is automatically recognized and immediately usable.

22 FTB-200

Getting Started with Your UnitConfiguring the Printer

Configuring the PrinterTo print reports, you must configure the printer first. The unit supports the Printek MT2B printer and communicates with it via Bluetooth.

Note: Some applications may not offer print functions.

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 computeron which ToolBox 6 (or later), ToolBox R/T Pro or Result Viewer is installed.

To configure the printer:

1. Insert the Bluetooth wireless card (provided with the printer) into the unit’s card reader. Ensure that the holes for the connector pins are towards the back of the card reader and that you see the label with a small arrow on top. The card should fit perfectly into the card reader.

2. On your unit, go to the Main Menu, then select Setup > Bluetooth Device Properties.

3. From Bluetooth Manager, press Scan Device to launch printer detection. Wait a few seconds until items appear in the Untrusted list.

4. From the Untrusted list, select the first Printek M2 item and press the -> button.

CAUTIONApplying too much pressure on the card will cause irreparable damage to the card.


Getting Started with Your UnitConfiguring the Printer

5. When Bluetooth Manager prompts you to authenticate the device, answer No.

6. Once the item is on the Trusted list, select it. Press Active. A red checkmark appears at the side of the icon to confirm the activation.

7. Repeat steps 4 and 6 with the second Printek M2 item.

8. Close Bluetooth Manager, then Control Panel and File Manager.

The printer is now ready to use.

IMPORTANTIf you answer Yes, the application will not be able to use the printer.

CAUTIONAlways use the card reader’s eject button to remove the card from your unit.

24 FTB-200

Getting Started with Your UnitTurning On or Off the Unit

Turning On or Off the Unit There are two ways to turn off the unit:

Suspend: the next time you turn your unit on, you will quickly return to your work environment (running applications will still be running).

Shutdown: completely cuts power to the test modules and platform; the unit will perform a complete restart routine the next time you use it. You should perform a shutdown if you do not intend to use your unit for a week or more.

After a shutdown, the unit will start in ToolBox CE or in the application you defined as the startup application.

To enter suspend mode:

Hold down the On/Off button a few seconds until the unit beeps once.

To perform a shutdown:

Hold down the On/Off button a few seconds until the unit beeps twice.

To turn on the unit:

Press the On/Off button.


Getting Started with Your UnitStarting Module Applications

Starting Module ApplicationsYour modules may be fully configured and controlled from their dedicated applications in ToolBox CE.

To start a module application:

1. From ToolBox CE, select the row corresponding to the module you wish to use. It will turn blue to indicate that it is highlighted.

2. Under Applications, select an application, then press Start.

To start the Power Meter or Probe application:

From Main Menu, press Power Meter or Probe.

Modules insertedin the platform

Applicationsspecific to

selected module

Selected module

26 FTB-200

4 Setting Up Your UnitRecalibrating the Touchscreen

If you notice the touchscreen does not behave in the way it used to(e.g., it is now difficult to select items) it probably needs a recalibration.

To recalibrate the touchscreen:

1. From the Main Menu, press Setup, then select Stylus.

2. Go to the Calibration tab and follow the instructions.


Setting Up Your UnitAdjusting Microphone and Speaker

Adjusting Microphone and SpeakerTo fit your work environment, you may adjust the microphone and speaker. Values are kept in memory when you turn the unit off.

To adjust microphone and/or speaker:

1. From the Main Menu, press Setup, then select Microphone and Speaker.

2. Use the slider to adjust the sound of your microphone and/or speaker.

3. Press OK to return to the Control Panel window.

28 FTB-200

Setting Up Your UnitAdjusting Brightness

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

Note: These settings do not apply to the Fiber Inspection Probe display.

To adjust the display brightness:

Press the key repeatedly to switch between brightness levels.

OR

1. From the Main Menu, press Setup, then select Brightness.

2. Move the slider until the screen appearance is to your liking.

If you select the lowest brightness setting, the backlight will be completely deactivated. Press the button to reactivate it.



Setting Up Your UnitSelecting the Language of Operation

Selecting the Language of OperationYou 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 Installing or Upgrading the Applications on page 15). Values are kept in memory when you turn the unit off.

To select a new interface language:

1. From the Main Menu, press Setup, then select Language Settings. Modify the settings.


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

Note: Modifying the language of operation will affect the Windows CE language setting and vice versa.

30 FTB-200

Setting Up Your UnitSetting Date and Time Formats

Setting Date and Time FormatsThe current date and time are displayed at the bottom of the Main Menu. When saving results, the unit also saves the corresponding date and time.

Note: A dedicated clock battery keeps the date and time accurate. For details, see Replacing Battery on page 258.

Note: Modifying locale, date and time settings will affect some of the Windows CE settings and vice versa.

To set date and time formats:

1. From the Main Menu, press Setup, then select Language Settings.

2. From Your locale, select the desired language. This will determine the date formats available for the short and long dates.

3. Modify the settings.



Setting Up Your UnitSelecting the Startup Application

Selecting the Startup ApplicationThe first time you start your unit, ToolBox CE is displayed. However, you can configure your unit to automatically start in any of the available applications.

The selected application will start automatically the next time you turn on your unit after a shutdown (not suspend mode). For more information, see Turning On or Off the Unit on page 25.

Note: The startup application you select will also be used after a power failure.

If the specified application cannot be started (e.g., in the FTB-200, the required module is not present in the unit or is not inserted in the same slot) the startup application setting is automatically reset to “None”. You will have to select the application again when the module is inserted into the unit.

32 FTB-200

Setting Up Your UnitSelecting the Startup Application

To select a startup application:

1. From the Main Menu, press Setup, then select Application Startup.

2. Under Device power on, select the application you want to start automatically when you turn on your unit.

Note: The Power Meter application is only available if you purchased this option with your unit.

3. Press Apply, then OK to return to the Control Panel window.


Setting Up Your UnitConfiguring the Shortcut Buttons

Configuring the Shortcut ButtonsYou can start a particular application directly by pressing one of the shortcut buttons. You can determine which application each of these shortcut buttons will start.

There are two shortcut buttons:

one to start an application related to the module in slot 0

another to start either the built-in power meter application (if your unit is equipped with this option) or an application related to the module in slot 1.

To configure the shortcut buttons:

1. From the Main Menu, press Setup, then select Application Startup.

2. Under Shortcut buttons, associate the application to each button.

3. Press Apply to confirm your changes, then OK to return to the Control Panel window.

Setting Other ParametersYou can also configure other parameters via the Control Panel window, refer to Microsoft Windows CE documentation.

34 FTB-200

5 Using the Built-In Power Meter and VFL

The FTB-200 Compact Modular Platform can be equipped with an optical power meter to measure absolute power (in dBm or W) or insertion loss (in dB). The power meter can detect modulated signals (1 kHz, 2 kHz and 270 Hz).

The FTB-200 can also include a visual fault locator (VFL) to inspect or identify fibers.

Accessing the Built-In Power MeterFrom the Main Menu, press Power Meter.

Note: Some buttons are not displayed when you first access the Power Meter application, but will be displayed after you press Add for the first time or after you open a file.


Using the Built-In Power Meter and VFLAccessing the Built-In Power Meter

Below is a description of the Power Meter buttons and functions.

Selected wavelength

Switches betweenavailable power meter

wavelengths

Accesses reference mode

Detected power

Switches between dBm andW as measurement units

Reference value (when in reference mode)

Stores a reading to the Results window

36 FTB-200

Using the Built-In Power Meter and VFLNulling Electrical Offsets

Nulling Electrical OffsetsTemperature and humidity variations affect the performance of electronic circuits and optical detectors. Nulling the electrical offsets eliminate these effects.

Your unit has been designed not to require offset nulling under normal operation, but you should perform it whenever environmental conditions change significantly or when measuring very low power values.

To perform an offset nulling:

1. From the Power Meter tab, press Nulling.

2. Tighten the protective cap on the power meter port, then press OK.

The nulling process takes approximately 5 seconds.

IMPORTANTLight must not reach the detector when nulling offsets. Always use an EUI or protective screw cap. Do not use a soft rubber cover.


Using the Built-In Power Meter and VFLSetting Thresholds and Correction Factors

Setting Thresholds and Correction FactorsYou can define thresholds to specify acceptable power or loss values for each wavelength. Thresholds are usually supplied by system manufacturers and depend on the system deployed.

When a measurement is below a threshold, the symbol appears in red beside the measurement, in the Results list.

To set power or loss thresholds:

1. From the Power Meter tab, press Setup.

2. From the Threshold and Correction Factor list, select the wavelength for which you want to set a threshold and a correction factor.

IMPORTANTIf you revert to factory settings, you will erase all your thresholds, correction factors and reference values.

Wavelengths list

Thresholds list (dB, dBm, W) for each wavelength

Correction factor for each wavelength

To revert to default values

When selected,green LED: pass/

red LED: fail

38 FTB-200

Using the Built-In Power Meter and VFLSetting Thresholds and Correction Factors

3. Press Edit and modify thresholds for the selected wavelength. For the watt (W) threshold, select the desired order of magnitude.

4. Select the Show Pass/Fail Status with LED check box to activate the pass/fail LED on your unit.

Note: Threshold values with dB, dBm or dBm/dB units will be converted to a negative value if you entered a positive value.

5. Press OK to close the dialog box, then press Exit Setup to confirm the new thresholds.


Using the Built-In Power Meter and VFLSetting Reference Values on Your Power Meter

Setting Reference Values on Your Power MeterIn Reference mode, your unit displays the loss created by the fiber under test only, since it substracts a reference value from the measured power.

You can set a different reference value for each wavelength. A reference value remains in memory until a new one is stored at the same wavelength.

To set reference values to use in Reference mode:

1. Check your fibers and clean them properly.

2. Using the proper adapter and test jumpers, connect a light source to your power meter.

3. From the Power Meter tab, use the up/down arrows to select a wavelength. Activate the source at the same wavelength.

4. Press Reference to save the current power value as the new reference. It will appear on the right-hand corner of the data display.

Wavelengthslist

40 FTB-200

Using the Built-In Power Meter and VFLMeasuring Power or Loss

Measuring Power or LossMeasuring absolute power or link loss is done the same way, except for the referencing step. You can take power or loss measurements and save them for further analysis.

To perform power or loss measurements:

1. If necessary, perform an offset nulling (see Nulling Electrical Offsets on page 37).

2. Check your fibers and clean them properly.

3. For loss measurements, reference your power meter to a light source (see Setting Reference Values on Your Power Meter on page 40), then deactivate the light source.

4. If you have used a single reference patchcord, disconnect it from the power meter port only, then attach a second reference patchcord to the power meter.

OR

If you have used two reference patchcords, disconnect both of them at the bulkhead.



5. Using bulkhead adapters or the system patch panels, connect a fiber under test to reference patchcord attached to the light source and power meter.

6. From the Power Meter tab, use the up/down arrows to select a wavelength. Activate the source at the same wavelength.

7. Add the displayed values to the Results list by pressing Add.

8. Repeat the procedure for other wavelengths.

9. Once the analysis is complete, press Quick Save. You can also access the Save File dialog box in the Storage window.

IMPORTANTIf you specify a name that already exists, the original file will be overwritten and only the new file will be available.

Wavelengthslist

42 FTB-200


To view and edit power measurements:

1. From the Power Meter tab, press Results. All your measurements are displayed in the order they were performed.

2. Press Rename to rename the fiber or press Delete to remove the selected value from the list.

3. Press Exit Results to return to the Power Meter tab.

4. Once the analysis is complete, press Quick Save.You can also access the Save File dialog box in the Storage window.

Note: If you press Add while using another measurement unit, you will have to save previous values first.

To change thefiber name

Fiber number

To delete a row in the table

Wavelength at which power was measuredPower measurement results (in dB)

Average powermeasured

Reference power (in dBm) if a reference was used

Symbol indicating a measurement below the user-defined threshold. For more information, see Setting Thresholds and Correction Factors on page 38.


Using the Built-In Power Meter and VFLReloading Power Meter Results

Reloading Power Meter ResultsBy reloading results on your unit, you can change the file location, but you cannot reload files from another unit. To do so, transfer data to a computer, then use the Optical Test Report Viewer.

To reload Power Meter results:

1. From the Power Meter tab, press Storage, then Open Files.

2. If necessary, change the location from which the file should be reloaded.

3. From the given list of files, select the file to reload.

Confirm with OK.

If you have already performed power measurements but not saved your work, you will be asked to save it. Then, you will be able to reload a new file afterwards.

4. To view the reloaded file, press Exit Storage. Then, from the Power Meter tab, press Results. The power measurements are displayed on the results list.

44 FTB-200

Using the Built-In Power Meter and VFLClearing Power Measurements from the Display

Clearing Power Measurements from the Display

If a measurement does not meet your requirements, you can clear the display and start over.

Note: Clearing measurements from the display does not delete them from the disk (if they were saved previously).

To clear power measurements:

1. From the Power Meter tab, press Storage, then Clear Display.

If you have already performed power measurements (but not saved them), the application will prompt you to save the current data.

Select Yes to save the file. For more information on saving results, see Reloading Power Meter Results on page 44.

2. Press Exit Storage.


Using the Built-In Power Meter and VFLCreating and Printing a Results Report

Creating and Printing a Results ReportA report is available to keep notes on the measures, the location of the tested fiber, the type of job performed and general comments. This information will be saved, with your measurements, in the power meter results file.

To speed up information entry, once you have provided the required data, you may keep the contents as a template that will be used for all new results.

You can print two types of report:

Type of report Summarized Detailed

Cable information X X

Job information X X

Result table X X

Average table X

Comments X

46 FTB-200


To create a power meter result report:

1. From the Power Meter tab, press Report.

2. Enter the relevant information.

You can save the information as a template by pressing Save as Template.

3. Press Exit Report to return to the Power Meter tab.

To clear all the information from the Report window:

Press Clear All, then Exit Report.

To erase all information



To print a power measurement report:

1. Connect a printer to your Compact Modular Platform. For more information, see Configuring the Printer on page 23.

2. From Power Meter tab, press Print.

3. Select the report format.

4. Press Print. You will automatically return to the Power Meter tab.

48 FTB-200

Using the Built-In Power Meter and VFLIdentifying Fiber Faults Visually with the VFL

Identifying Fiber Faults Visually with the VFLThe visual fault locator (VFL) helps you identify bends, faulty connectors, splices and other causes of signal loss. It can also help the person at the other end of the link to identify the fiber under test, which could be particularly useful when working with cables containing many fibers.

From its dedicated port, the VFL emits a red signal which becomes visible at the location of a fault on the fiber. This signal can be continuous (CW, the default) or blinking (1 Hz).

WARNINGWhen the VFL is active, the VFL port emits visible laser radiation. Avoid exposure and do not stare directly into the beam. Protect any unused port with a cap.


Using the Built-In Power Meter and VFLIdentifying Fiber Faults Visually with the VFL

To activate the VFL and inspect a fiber:

1. Clean the connectors properly.

2. Connect the fiber under test to the VFL port.

3. From the Main Menu, press Power Meter, then select the VFL tab.

4. Press ON/OFF to activate the VFL.

5. Use up/down arrows to switch between blinking (1 Hz) and continuous (CW) signals

6. Without looking directly into the beam, examine the fiber. If light is coming out of the rubber jacket or on the side of the ferrule, the fiber is defective.

7. Press ON/OFF to deactivate the VFL.

50 FTB-200

6 Inspecting Fibers with a ProbeThe fiber inspection probe (FIP) is used to find dirty or damaged connectors by displaying an enlarged view of the connector surface.

The following common features of video fiber inspection probes are supported by the FTB-200 Compact Modular Platform:

Magnification control: supports 200x, 400x or other zoom factors.

Focus control: fine-tunes the display quality.

Image capture: freezes the image on the unit display by pressing a button.

For more information, refer to the user guide that came with your probe.

Inspecting a Fiber EndOnce that you started the probe application, it is possible to inspect fibers through the FIP.

To inspect a fiber end:

1. Connect the probe to the 8-pin port on the right side of the unit, using an adapter if necessary. You cannot connect the probe to the USB port.

2. Activate the probe display using one of the following:

From the Main Menu, press Probe.

Press the Probe button on the unit keypad.

IMPORTANTIf you started the application before connecting the probe to your unit, you will have to restart the application for the probe to be detected.


Inspecting Fibers with a ProbeInspecting a Fiber End

3. Connect the fiber you want to inspect to the probe.

4. Press Live Video.

5. Adjust brightness and contrast by using the sliding arrows.

6. Adjust the focus by using the focus control knob on your probe.

To adjust contrastTo adjust brightness

52 FTB-200

Inspecting Fibers with a ProbeCapturing an Image

Capturing an ImageWhile you are inspecting a fiber, you can capture an image and save it on your unit as a JPEG or BMP file. You can transfer image files to a computer and add them to your reports.

When you save a capture, the application suggests a file name of the form “ProbeNNN” (where NNN is the first unused number in the folder, starting at 000).

Note: If you delete a file, its name becomes available for the next file to save.

To capture an image:

1. In Live Video mode, use focus, brightness and contrast to adjust the image to your liking.

2. Press Capture.

3. Press File, then Save As and select a file name and location for your capture.

4. Return to Live Video mode by pressing Main Menu.


Inspecting Fibers with a ProbeCapturing an Image

To view a capture:

1. Press File > Open.

2. Open the folder in which your captures are saved.

3. Double click on the capture you want to view.

4. Return to Live Video mode by pressing Main Menu.

Repeat steps 1 to 3 to view other captures.

Capture format

Default folder

Selectedcapture

54 FTB-200

7 Introducing the OTDRThe OTDR characterizes a fiber-optic span, usually optical fiber sections joined by splices and connectors. The optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) provides an inside view of the fiber, and can calculate fiber length, attenuation, breaks, total return loss, and splice, connector and total losses.

OTDR

Handle

Visual fault locator (VFL) port (optional)

SM / MM OTDR

FTB-7200D

SMMM

OTDR port (singlemode)

OTDR port (multimode)

OTDR port(singlemode or multimode)

Other modelsSinglemode and multimode models


Introducing the OTDRMain Features

Main FeaturesThe OTDR:

can be used with the FTB-400 Universal Test System (refer to FTB-400 Universal Test System user guide) and the Unit.

offer impressive dynamic range with short dead zones

perform quick acquisitions with low noise levels to enable accurate low-loss splice location

acquire OTDR traces made of up to 128 000 points that provide a sampling resolution as fine as 4 cm

include a light source and can include an optional visual fault locator

56 FTB-200

Introducing the OTDRTrace Acquisition Modes

Trace Acquisition ModesThe OTDR application provides the following trace acquisition modes:

Auto: Automatically calculates fiber length, sets acquisition parameters, acquires traces, and displays event tables and acquired traces.

Advanced: Offers all the tools needed to perform integral OTDR tests and measurements and gives you control over all test parameters.

Template: Tests fibers and compares the results to a reference trace that was previously acquired and analyzed. This allows you to save time when testing a large number of fibers. Reference trace documentation is also automatically copied to new acquisitions.

Data Post-ProcessingYou can install the ToolBox 6 software on a computer to view and analyze traces without having to use an and an OTDR. You can also access more features such as

customized printout

batch printing

conversion of traces to many formats such as Telcordia or ASCII

Bidirectional Averaging UtilityYou can improve the accuracy of your loss measurements with the bidirectional averaging utility (available with ToolBox 6). This utility uses OTDR acquisitions from both ends of a fiber span (singlemode traces only) to average loss results for each event.


Introducing the OTDRAvailable OTDR Models

Available OTDR ModelsA wide variety of multimode and singlemode OTDR models is offered at several wavelengths to cover all fiber applications from long-haul or WDM networks to metropolitan networks.

OTDR Description

Singlemode

FTB-200: FTB-7200D-B

1310 nm and 1550 nm.

35 dB dynamic range and 1 m event dead zone, useful to locate closely spaced events.

High-resolution feature to obtain more data points per acquisition. Data points will be closer to each other, resulting in a greater distance resolution for the trace.

Singlemode and multimode

FTB-200: FTB-7200D-12CD-23B

Four wavelengths: two multimode (850 nm and 1300 nm) and two singlemode (1310 nm and 1550 nm) in a single module.

26 dB (850 nm)/25 dB (1300 nm)/35 dB (1310 nm)/34 dB (1550 nm) dynamic range and 1 m event dead zone, particularly useful to locate closely spaced events.

4.5 m of attenuation dead zone for both singlemode and multimode.

Allows tests on both 50 μm (C type) and 62.5 μm (D type) multimode fibers.

58 FTB-200

Introducing the OTDRAvailable OTDR Models

Singlemode

FTB-200: FTB-7300D-B

One, two or three wavelengths selected from the following: 1310 nm, 1490 nm, 1550 nm and 1625 nm.

38 dB dynamic range.

Acquires up to 128 000 points.

Optimized for metro network installation and troubleshooting, access and FTTx test applications, and inside plant testing.

Singlemode

FTB-200: FTB-7400B-B

40 dB dynamic range with 3 meter event dead zone.

Acquires up to 52 000 data points while sampling a single trace.

Singlemode

FTB-200: FTB-74234C-B

High-power 1310 nm, 1550 nm and 1625 nm module.

40 dB dynamic range with 3 meter event dead zone.


Suitable for measuring B-, C-, and L-band fiber attenuation when dealing with mixed networks (1310 nm and DWDM transmission).

Singlemode

FTB-200: FTB-7500B-B

45 dB dynamic range (on NZDSF with a 20 μs pulse) with 3 meter event dead zone.

High-launch power level minimizes noise effects on signal.


Suitable for long-range applications and recommended when measuring time is a key factor.

OTDR Description


Introducing the OTDROTDR Basic Principles

OTDR Basic PrinciplesAn 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 108 m/s)

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 cn--- t

2---×=

60 FTB-200

Introducing the OTDROTDR Basic Principles

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

Rayleigh scattering occurs when a pulse travels down the fiber and small variations in the material, such as variations and discontinuities in the index of refraction, cause light to be scattered in all directions. However, the phenomenon of small amounts of light being reflected directly back toward the transmitter is called backscattering.

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

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

Microprocessor

Pulse generator

Avalanche photodetector (APD)

Display

Reflections come back to the OTDR

Set ofinstructions

Light pulses Light pulses

Analog-to-digital converter (A/D)

Returned signal

Analyzed signal

Laser diode

Optical coupler

OTDR port

Fiber


8 Setting Up Your Optical Time Domain ReflectometerInstalling the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI)

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

To install an EUI connector adapter onto the EUI baseplate:

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

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

3. Insert the connector adapter into the baseplate.

4. While pushing firmly, turn the connector adapter clockwise on the baseplate to lock it in place.

Bare metal(or blue border)

indicates UPCoption

Green borderindicates APC

option

2 43


Setting Up Your Optical Time Domain ReflectometerCleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers

Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers

To connect the fiber-optic cable to the port:

1. Clean the fiber ends as follows:

1a. Gently wipe the fiber end with a lint-free swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol.

1b. Use compressed air to dry completely.

1c. Visually inspect the fiber end to ensure its cleanliness.

2. 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.

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

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

Note: If your fiber-optic cable is not properly aligned and/or connected, you will notice heavy loss and reflection.

IMPORTANTTo ensure maximum power and to avoid erroneous readings:

Always clean fiber ends as explained below before inserting them into the port. EXFO is not responsible for damage or errors caused by bad fiber cleaning or handling.

Ensure that your patchcord has appropriate connectors. Joining mismatched connectors will damage the ferrules.

64 FTB-200

Setting Up Your Optical Time Domain ReflectometerNaming Trace Files Automatically

Naming Trace Files Automatically Each time you save a trace, the application suggests a default name.

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

By setting the default name and number of the first trace to be stored, all subsequent traces will be stored with the same name and incremental number structure.

This function is particularly useful when working in Template mode or when testing ribbon fibers.

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

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

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


Setting Up Your Optical Time Domain ReflectometerNaming Trace Files Automatically

To configure the automatic file naming:

1. From the button bar, press Storage.

2. From the Storage dialog box, select the File Autonaming button.

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

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

4. Press OK to confirm your new settings.

66 FTB-200

9 Testing Fibers in Auto ModeAcquiring Traces

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

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

Test wavelengths (all selected by default)

Fiber type (singlemode or multimode) for models supporting both fiber types

Autorange acquisition time

IOR (group index), RBS coefficient and Helix factor

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

If you ever need to modify other parameters, go to Advanced mode (see Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode on page 73 and Setting Up Your Optical Time Domain Reflectometer on page 63).

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

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

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

Note: You can interrupt the acquisition at any time. The application will display the information acquired to that point.


Testing Fibers in Auto ModeAcquiring Traces

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

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

The application will also display status messages if you have selected to display pass/fail messages (see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 86).

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

Eventpane

Tracedisplay

68 FTB-200


To acquire traces in Auto mode:


2. Connect a fiber to the OTDR port.

If your OTDR supports singlemode and multimode wavelengths, ensure that you connect the fiber to the appropriate port (SM or MM), depending on the wavelength you intend to use.

3. Set the autorange acquisition time (see Setting the Autorange Acquisition Time on page 77).

4. If desired, activate the fault finder features (see Activating or Deactivating the Fault Finder Features on page 71).

Note: You do not need activate the fault finder features if you have activated them in a previous test session.

5. Go to the OTDR tab. If your OTDR supports singlemode and multimode wavelengths, specify the desired fiber type (for C fiber, select 50 μm and for D fiber, select 62.5 μm).

CAUTIONNever connect a live fiber to the OTDR port. Any incoming signal greater than –30 dBm will affect the OTDR acquisition and could damage the OTDR permanently.



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

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

8. Press Start or from the keypad.

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

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

9b. If necessary, specify a file name.

Press OK to confirm.

Note: You cannot save the results if you deactivated the storage and print features (see Activating or Deactivating the Fault Finder Features on page 71).

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

70 FTB-200

Testing Fibers in Auto ModeActivating or Deactivating the Fault Finder Features

Activating or Deactivating the Fault Finder Features

The application offers you a special testing feature to rapidly locate fiber ends. This could be useful if you want to perform a quick test without having to save and/or print the results.

The application can also display a message indicating the length of the fiber under test and highlight the corresponding value in the events table. If you are testing more than one wavelength, all information will be displayed in a single message.

The test procedure is similar to the usual test performed in Auto mode.

By default, the save and print options are available and no message is displayed to indicate the fiber length.

Note: Since the application keeps your settings in memory, normally, you only have to activate the fault finder features once.

To activate or deactivate the fault finder features:

1. In Auto mode, from the button bar, select OTDR Setup.

2. Go to the General tab, then under Fault Finder, select the box(es) corresponding to the desired behavior.

OR

If you want to revert the application to its default behavior, clear the boxes.

3. Press Exit OTDR Setup.


10 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

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

Note: Most parameters can only be set if you select Advanced mode first. Once you have finished selecting your settings, you can simply return to the test mode you prefer.

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

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

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

The pulse width will be determined using a factory-defined signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) requirement specified where the End-of-Fiber (EoF) event has been detected.

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

The range will then be set automatically. This optimum value may differ from the values currently associated with the Distance dial of the main window. In this case, the application will “add” the required value and mark it with a * symbol.

The application uses the acquisition time defined in the Acquisition tab of the OTDR setup (for more information, see Setting the Autorange Acquisition Time on page 77). The default value is 15 seconds. Longer acquisitions give better OTDR results.


Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

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

Note: You can interrupt the acquisition at any time. The application will display the information acquired to that point.

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

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

The application will also display pass/fail messages if you have selected this option. For more information, see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 86.


Eventpane

Tracedisplay

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To acquire traces:


2. Connect a fiber to the OTDR port.


3. If you want the application to provide automatic acquisition values, set the autorange acquisition time (see Setting the Autorange Acquisition Time on page 77).

4. If you want to set your own IOR (group index), RBS coefficient or Helix factor, see Setting the IOR, RBS Coefficient and Helix Factor on page 78.

5. If you want to test in high resolution, simply select the option (see Enabling the High-Resolution Feature on page 84).

6. Go to the OTDR tab. If your OTDR supports singlemode and multimode wavelengths, specify the desired fiber type (for C fiber, select 50 μm and for D fiber, select 62.5 μm).




7. Select the boxes corresponding to the desired test wavelength(s). You must select at least one wavelength.

8. Select the desired distance, pulse and time values. For more information, see Setting Distance Range, Pulse Width and Acquisition Time on page 80.

9. Press Start or from the keypad.


10a.If necessary, change the folder to which the file will be saved by pressing the Location button.

10b.If necessary, specify a file name.


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

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Testing Fibers in Advanced ModeSetting the Autorange Acquisition Time

Setting the Autorange Acquisition Time

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

When performing automatic acquisitions in Advanced mode (see Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode on page 73) or before activating Auto mode (see Testing Fibers in Auto Mode on page 67), you can set an autorange acquisition time for the OTDR to average acquisitions over a set time period.

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

Note: In Template mode, the acquisition time of the reference trace is used for all trace acquisitions, not the autorange acquisition time.

To set the autorange acquisition time:

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

2. Go to the Autorange acquisition time box and press the up or down arrow to select your preference. The default value is 30 seconds.

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


Testing Fibers in Advanced ModeSetting the IOR, RBS Coefficient and Helix Factor

Setting the IOR, RBS Coefficient and Helix Factor

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

You should set the IOR (group index), RBS coefficient and Helix factor before performing tests in order to apply them to all newly acquired traces. However, if you are in Advanced mode, you can also set them at a later time in the Trace Info. tab to reanalyze a specific trace.

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

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

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

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

The Helix factor takes into consideration the difference between the length of the cable and the length of the fiber inside the cable. Fibers within a cable are spiraling around the cable core. The Helix factor describes the pitch of that spiral.

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

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Testing Fibers in Advanced ModeSetting the IOR, RBS Coefficient and Helix Factor

To set the IOR, RBS and Helix factor parameters:

1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup.

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

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

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

OR

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

Note: You cannot define a different Helix factor for each wavelength. This value takes into account the difference between the length of the cable and the length of the fiber inside the cable; it does not vary with wavelengths.


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

Wavelength forwhich RBS and IOR

will be defined

Index of refraction

Rayleighbackscattercoefficient


Testing Fibers in Advanced ModeSetting Distance Range, Pulse Width and Acquisition Time

Setting Distance Range, Pulse Width and Acquisition Time

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

Distance: corresponds to the distance range of the fiber span to be tested according to the selected measurement units (see Selecting the Measurement Unit on page 118).

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

If your OTDR model is FTB-7000D or later, you can customize the available distance range values (see Customizing the Acquisition Distance Range Values on page 103). If you select Auto, the application will evaluate the fiber length and set the acquisition parameters accordingly.

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

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

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

Note: If you deactivate the Same Pulse Value for all Wavelengths option, the Pulse dial is replaced by boxes (one per wavelength).

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

The time settings will also determine how the timer displayed in the toolbar counts time during testing.

Note: If you deactivate the Same Time Value for all Wavelengths option, the Time dial is replaced by boxes (one per wavelength).

If the predefined values do not suit your needs, you can customize one or all of them. For more information, see Customizing the Acquisition Time Values on page 105.

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

Real: used to immediately view changes in the fiber under test. In this mode, the SNR of the trace is lower and the trace is refreshed instead of averaged until you press Stop.

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

Note: You can only use one wavelength at a time to monitor your fiber in real time mode.

Auto: the application will use the autorange acquisition time that you have previously defined (see Setting the Autorange Acquisition Time on page 77). It will also evaluate the fiber type and length and set the acquisition parameters accordingly.

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



To set the parameters:

From the OTDR tab,

Press the dial corresponding to the parameter you wish to set (the selection marker will move clockwise) or use the selection dial located on the front of the Unit.

OR

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

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

Note: If your OTDR supports singlemode and multimode wavelengths, settings would be applied to either singlemode or multimode wavelengths, depending on the selected fiber type (same settings for 50 μm and 62.5 μm).

Parameters setting dials

Selection marker

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

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

2. Select the Same pulse for all wavelengths box and/or the Same time for all wavelengths box.

When a particular option is selected, the corresponding dial (Pulse or Time) appears on the OTDR tab. When it is not, list boxes for each available test wavelength appear instead.


Testing Fibers in Advanced ModeEnabling the High-Resolution Feature

Enabling the High-Resolution Feature If your OTDR model is FTB-7000D or later, you can select the high-resolution option to obtain more data points per acquisition. This way, the data points will be closer to each other, which will result in a greater distance resolution for the trace.

Note: You can use high resolution with any test mode (except when you monitor fiber in real time), but you must be in Advanced mode to select it. In Template mode, you will have to acquire the reference trace using high resolution. This way, all subsequent acquisitions will use this option automatically.

To enable the high-resolution feature:

Select the OTDR tab, then the High-resolution acquisition box.

Note: If your OTDR supports singlemode and multimode wavelengths, the high-resolution feature will be activated either for the singlemode or multimode wavelengths, depending on the selected fiber type.

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Testing Fibers in Advanced ModeEnabling or Disabling Analysis After Acquisition

Enabling or Disabling Analysis After Acquisition

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

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

You can also set a default fiber span, which will be applied during the analysis of all traces to display test results. For details, see Setting a Default Span Start and Span End on page 88.

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

To enable or disable the analysis after trace acquisition:


2. Go to the Analysis tab.

3. If you want the OTDR to automatically analyze an acquired trace, select the Automatically analyze data after acquisition box.

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

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

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


Testing Fibers in Advanced ModeSetting Pass/Fail Thresholds

Setting Pass/Fail ThresholdsYour Optical Time Domain Reflectometer allows you to set Pass/Fail threshold parameters for your tests.

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

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

Test Default Minimum Maximum

Splice and connector loss (dB) 0.015 0.015 5.000

Reflectance (dB) –45.0 –80.0 0.0

Fiber section attenuation (dB/km) 0.000 0.000 5.000

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Testing Fibers in Advanced ModeSetting Pass/Fail Thresholds

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

The Pass/Fail test is performed on two occasions:

when analyzing or reanalyzing a trace

when you open a trace file

The application displays asterisks to mark events for which the measured value is greater than the predefined thresholds in the events table.

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

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

To set pass/fail thresholds:

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

2. Select the Mark faults in event table box. The other boxes become available.

3. Enter the desired values in the appropriate fields.

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

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


Testing Fibers in Advanced ModeSetting a Default Span Start and Span End

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

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

You can set the span start and span end on a particular event or at a certain distance value from the beginning or end of the trace.

By default, the number of available events is set to 10 and, therefore, does not necessarily reflect the actual number of events displayed.

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

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

Note: You can also change the fiber span of a single trace after the analysis and reanalyze the trace. However, if you want to keep working with the original parameters, you must reenter them.

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Testing Fibers in Advanced ModeSetting a Default Span Start and Span End

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


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

3. If you want to set the span start and end with a distance value, under Span start and Span end, select the Set by distance option.Go to the Position box and enter the desired value, using the distance unit displayed to the right of the field.

Under Span end, select the option indicating whether the span end position is from the fiber span start or from the end of the fiber.

OR

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

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


11 Testing Fibers in Template Mode

Template mode allows you to test fibers and compare them to a reference trace that was previously acquired and analyzed.

Template PrincipleCables contain numerous fibers. Theoretically, on all these fibers, you will find the same events at the same location (due to connectors, splices, etc.). Template mode allows you to test these fibers one after the other quickly and efficiently and ensures that no event remains undetected.

The Template mode concept is to acquire a reference trace (template), add information and comments on the current job, then save the trace.

For a more accurate reference trace, you can update it with new events that may occur during the first acquisitions (up to fifteen).

The test application will flag possible problems and discrepancies between the reference trace and other traces.

Each new acquisition will be compared to the reference trace and the software will mark and measure any missing event.

If the reference trace was createdwith the ToolBox software on an FTB-400 Universal Test System or a computer, the event-related comments inserted in the reference trace, as well as the reference trace report, are automatically copied to subsequent traces.

Note: You cannot add comments to events or to a reference trace.


Template mode can be used on an unlimited number of traces, as long as you have at least one reference trace. Thus, you can use Template mode to automate trace acquisition.


Testing Fibers in Template ModeRestrictions of Template Mode

Restrictions of Template ModeTo speed up trace acquisition in Template mode, certain restrictions apply.

The parameters used to acquire the reference trace are automatically applied when acquiring subsequent traces (including the high-resolution option, when applicable).

The reference trace and subsequent traces must be acquired using identical wavelength(s), but pulse settings can be adjacent and still be accepted.

The OTDR that you intend to use must support at least one wavelength that was used to acquire the reference trace.

The reference trace and subsequent traces (or recalled traces) must respect the following criteria:

Item To be valid...

Pulse width Must be:

OR

Pulse width This would also be valid:

OR

Reference trace pulse4

---------------------------------------------------⎝ ⎠⎛ ⎞ Current trace pulse ≤

Current trace pulse Reference trace pulse( 4 )×≤

Current trace pulse4

------------------------------------------------⎝ ⎠⎛ ⎞ Reference trace pulse ≤

Reference trace pulse Current trace pulse( 4 )×≤

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Testing Fibers in Template ModeRestrictions of Template Mode

When you process traces using an OTDR, you acquire the traces as you go along. When you process traces on a computer, you use traces stored on disk; therefore, applying the span length is optional.

Fiber types Compare singlemode traces with singlemode traces.

Compare multimode traces with multimode traces.

Number of events

Traces must have at least two events (span start and span end) and a fiber section.

Acquisition mode

Reference trace must not be acquired in Real mode (see Setting Distance Range, Pulse Width and Acquisition Time on page 80).

Wavelengths Reference wavelengths and subsequent (or reloaded) traces wavelengths must be identical.

Item To be valid...


Testing Fibers in Template ModeAcquiring the Reference Trace

Acquiring the Reference TraceYou must acquire a reference trace before you start Template mode. The acquisition parameters you define for this reference trace will be used to acquire subsequent traces.

To acquire the reference trace:


1. Acquire a trace in Auto or Advanced test mode. If you want to test using high resolution, you will have to select this option before acquiring the reference trace. For more information, see Testing Fibers in Auto Mode on page 67 or Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode on page 73.

2. If desired, document the results (see Documenting Results on page 159).

3. If necessary, define the span start and end (see Analyzing the Fiber on a Specific Fiber Span on page 141).


Note: For easier management, you can name the reference trace as the cable name and set the autonaming function to include both the cable name and fiber number (for more information, see Naming Trace Files Automatically on page 65).


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Testing Fibers in Template ModeAcquiring Traces in Template Mode

Acquiring Traces in Template ModeTo acquire traces in Template mode, you must first open your reference trace in the application.

If you want your reference trace to be more accurate, you can update it with the new events that might be found.

The application will automatically switch to Template mode once the reference update is complete, that is, after 15 acquisitions or after you stop the update manually.

To acquire traces in Template mode:

1. If necessary, clean the connectors (see Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers on page 64) and connect a fiber to the OTDR port.


2. When the application prompts you, select the trace you want to use as the reference trace. If you do not select it immediately, you will have to select it manually before starting your test (see Selecting a Reference Trace on page 101).




3. Set test parameters.

3a. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup.

3b. Select the Create Ref./Template tab.

3c. If necessary, select Create reference trace to update your reference trace for the next acquisitions.

This mode will use the first 15 traces (or less, if you decide to stop the process manually) to continue compiling events and updating the previous traces accordingly.

Note: You can disable the mode by clearing the Create reference trace box between two acquisitions.

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3d. Set the Template mode option you want to use on the current trace acquisition:

Consider only the events already indicated on the reference trace and ignore any other event occurring on the current trace.

Keep all the events on the current trace, whether they are on the reference trace or not. You can delete these events later.

Confirm, for each newly detected event, if this event will be deleted or kept on the current trace.

3e. Press Exit OTDR Setup to return to main window.

IMPORTANTOnce the first 15 acquisitions have been performed, or if you stop the reference update manually, the only way to reactivate it will be to close the application and start a new acquisition in Template mode.



4. If you selected Create reference trace at step 3c, update your reference trace as follows:

4a. Press Start or from the keypad. Events from all traces will automatically be analyzed and measured.

4b. The application will prompt you when new events are found. For each of the newly detected events, specify if the event will be:

added to the reference trace. The application will update all previous acquisitions with the new information.

For example, if an event occurred on the sixth acquisition, the application would update traces 1 through 5.

deleted from the current trace

kept on the current trace (but not copied to previous or future traces because it is not transferred to reference trace)

Note: You can only add events to the reference trace during reference update.

Note: If you chose the Keep all events option for the acquisitions that will be performed after the update, you may find useful to add newly detected events to obtain a more accurate reference trace.

Note: Previous traces will only be updated if you select the Add event to template trace option.

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4c. Once the analysis is complete, save the trace by pressing Quick Save in the button bar or from the keypad.

If necessary, change the folder to which the file will be saved by pressing the Location button.

If necessary, specify a file name.


4d. Repeat steps 4a to 4c as necessary to update your reference trace.

5. Once the reference update is complete (or if you did not select the reference update), the application automatically switches to Template mode. New events will be managed according to the option you selected at step 3d. Perform acquisitions in Template mode as follows:

5a. Press Start or from the keypad.

5b. If you selected the Display delete/keep confirmation message for each newly detected event option, the application will prompt you when new events are found. For each of the newly detected events, specify if the event will be:

deleted from the current trace

kept on the current trace

IMPORTANTIf you specify the name of an existing trace, the original file will be replaced with the new file will be available.



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

If necessary, change the folder to which the file will be saved by pressing the Location button.

If necessary, specify a file name.


5d. Repeat steps 5a to 5c as necessary.

IMPORTANTIf you specify the name of an existing trace, the original file will be replaced with the new file will be available.

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Testing Fibers in Template ModeSelecting a Reference Trace

Selecting a Reference TraceIn Template OTDR mode, you can only select a file as a reference trace. This operation is closely related to opening a trace file.

Note: The following procedure will only be useful if you did not select a reference trace file when the Open Reference Trace File dialog box appeared during the activation of Template OTDR mode.

To select a reference trace:

1. From the Main Menu window, press Storage, then Open Reference.

2. If necessary, select the storage location from where you want to open the file.

3. Select the file to be used as a reference and press OK.

The application opens the selected trace file automatically.


12 Customizing Your Optical Time Domain Reflectometer

You can customize the appearance and behavior of your OTDR application.

Customizing the Acquisition Distance Range Values

Note: This function is available in Advanced mode only.

If your OTDR model is FTB-7000D or later, you can customize the values associated with the Distance dial. Once the customization is complete, you are ready to set the distance range value for your test. For more information, see Setting Distance Range, Pulse Width and Acquisition Time on page 80.

Note: The Auto value cannot be modified.


Customizing Your Optical Time Domain ReflectometerCustomizing the Acquisition Distance Range Values

To customize the distance range values:

1. From the button bar, select OTDR Setup, then the Acquisition tab.

2. Press the Customize Acquisition Parameters button.

3. If your OTDR supports singlemode and multimode wavelengths, specify the desired fiber type.

4. From the Distance list, select the value you want to modify (the value will become highlighted), then press the Edit button.

Note: You can revert to factory values by pressing the Default button.

5. In the displayed dialog box, enter the new value and confirm with OK.

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Customizing Your Optical Time Domain ReflectometerCustomizing the Acquisition Time Values

Customizing the Acquisition Time Values


You can customize the values associated with the Time dial. The acquisition time values represent the time during which the OTDR will average acquisitions.

Note: The Auto and Real values cannot be modified.

You can customize the acquisition time to improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the trace and enhance the detection of low-level events. The SNR improves by a factor of two (or 3 dB) each time the acquisition time is increased by a factor of four.


Customizing Your Optical Time Domain ReflectometerCustomizing the Acquisition Time Values

To customize the acquisition time values:

1. From the button bar, select OTDR Setup, then the Acquisition tab.

2. From the Time list, select the value you want to modify (the value will become highlighted), then press the Edit button.

Note: You can revert to factory values by pressing the Default button.

3. In the displayed dialog box, enter the new value and confirm with OK.

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13 Analyzing Traces and EventsOnce the acquired trace is analyzed, it appears in the trace display and the events are displayed in the events table at the bottom of the screen. The trace display and events table are explained in the following sections. You can also reanalyze existing traces.

Opening Trace FilesIn Advanced mode, you can open a trace file as the main trace or the reference trace.

You can open both the main and reference trace files at the same time. You can open two triple-wavelength trace files simultaneously, each containing three traces. A total of six traces are available: three for main traces and three for reference.

In Automatic mode, you can open a trace file for viewing only. Consequently, you cannot select a trace as main or reference trace.

Note: You cannot open bidirectional trace files in the OTDR test application. Use the Bidirectional Analysis utility provided with ToolBox 6 instead.

The application can open trace files saved in different formats.

For detailed information on compatibility between EXFO’s file formats and software versions, see OTDR Trace File Compatibility on page 156.

For information on the various criteria that are applied when loading traces in Template mode, see Restrictions of Template Mode on page 92.

For information on how to navigate between traces, see Displaying or Hiding a Trace on page 121.


Analyzing Traces and EventsOpening Trace Files

To open a trace file:

1. From the button bar, press Storage, then Open File.

2. If necessary, change the location to retrieve the file that has been stored.

3. Scroll through the list of files and select a trace file to open.

4. If you are in Advanced mode, press the Select as Main Trace or Select as Reference Trace button to indicate whether the selected trace will be used as the main or the reference trace.

You can select another file from the list and set the trace as the main or reference trace, according to your needs.

5. Press OK. You return to the Storage dialog box.

If you had already acquired (but not stored) a trace, the application prompts you to save the current trace (even if the trace is hidden). Press Yes to store the trace. You can now open another trace file.

6. If necessary, specify which trace(s) should be displayed. For more information, see Displaying or Hiding a Trace on page 121.

7. Press Close.

Available in Advanced mode

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Analyzing Traces and EventsTrace Display and Events Table Description

Trace Display and Events Table DescriptionThe application shows the analysis results both on a graph and in a table. The events that are detailed in the events table are marked by numbers along the displayed trace.

Some items in the trace display are always visible, while others will appear only if you choose to display them or when you move from one pane or another.

The blue rectangle on the Y axis (relative powers) indicates the proper injection level range for the defined test pulse.

Once the trace is acquired, you can change trace display parameters (such as the grid and zoom window display). For more information, see Setting Trace Display Parameters on page 116.

Defaultinjection

level

Event no. 4

Split bar

Scroll buttonsEvents table

Zoom buttons

Distance units

Event editing buttons



You can view all of the traces, in turn, in both the Trace Info pane and the trace display with the navigation buttons. For more information, see Displaying or Hiding a Trace on page 121.

When more than one trace is opened in the OTDR test application, each trace is displayed in a different color. The colors are assigned dynamically depending on the order in which the traces have been opened into the OTDR application.

The contents of the graph area changes according to the selected tab.

Events tab: The application shows marker A or markers A and B on the graph.

These markers pinpoint an event or a fiber section, depending on what is selected in the events table. You can move markers directly by selecting an event in the events table or on the graph. You can also drag markers from one location to another on the graph.

The magnifying glass button is displayed in the bottom right corner of the Events tab; it allows you to zoom in on an event selected in the events table. The Zoom window will not appear in the trace display when the Events tab is selected.

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Measure tab: The application shows two, three or four markers: a, A, B, and b, depending on which button you select from the Results section.

These markers can be repositioned along the trace to calculate loss, attenuation, reflectance, and optical return loss (ORL).

You can reposition all markers by using the controls in the Markers section. You can drag them directly from the trace display. You can also use from the keypad to select the desired marker and

move it with the selection dial located on the front of the unitUnit. Selecting marker A or B will move the a-A or B-b pair.

The zoom window will appear in the trace display when the Measure tab is selected.

Trace Info. tab: The information about all the trace files (including the reference) can be displayed.

The events table lists all the events detected on the fiber. An event can be defined as the point at which change in the transmission properties of light can be measured. Events can consist of losses due to transmission, splices, connectors or breaks. If the event is not within the established thresholds, it is a fault.

If you press and hold the row corresponding to a specific event for a few seconds, the application will display the name of this event.



For each event listed in the events table, information is displayed:

Type: Various symbols are used to describe different event types. For a more detailed description of symbols, see Description of Event Types on page 169.

Number: Event number (a sequential number assigned by the OTDR test application) or, in parentheses, the length of a fiber section (the distance between two events).

Loc.: Location; that is, distance between the OTDR and the measured event or between the event and the beginning of the fiber span.

Loss: Loss in dB for each event (calculated by the application).

Refl.: Reflectance measured at each reflective event along the fiber.

Att.: Attenuation (loss/distance) measured for each fiber section.

Cumul.: Cumulative loss from the trace span start to span end; the running total is provided at the end of each event and fiber span.

Cumulative loss is calculated for the events displayed in the events table, excluding those that are hidden. For a more accurate link loss value, refer to the loss measurement displayed in the Trace Info. tab.

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Analyzing Traces and EventsLocating Events in the Trace Display and Events Table

Locating Events in the Trace Display and Events Table

You can view information about all detected events on a trace by scrolling through the events table. When selecting an event in the events table, marker A appears on the trace over the selected event. When the selected event is a fiber section, this fiber section is delimited by two markers (A and B). For more information on markers, see Using Markers on page 143.

To quickly locate an event in the events table:

Select the event on the trace. The list scrolls automatically to the event you selected.


Analyzing Traces and EventsCustomizing the Events Table

Customizing the Events Table

Note: This function is available in Advanced OTDR mode only.

You can include or exclude items from the events table to better suit your needs.

Note: Hiding the fiber sections will not delete these items.

Fiber sections: You can display or hide fiber sections in the events table depending on the types of values you want to view.

For example, by hiding the fiber sections, you can obtain the running total of connector and splice losses instead of having a loss value for the entire link.

Launch level: In the events table, the Launch Level event is represented by the icon. In the Att. column, the injection level value for that event is identified by the @ symbol. You can hide the injection level value and symbol from the Att. column, but not the icon.

Including span loss and span end: When applicable, the application will include the losses caused by the span start and span end events in the displayed values.

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Analyzing Traces and EventsCustomizing the Events Table

If you activated the pass/fail test (see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 86), span-start and span-end events will be taken into account when determining the status (pass/fail) of splice and connector loss and reflectance.

To customize the events table appearance:

1. From the OTDR Setup window, select the Event Table tab.

2. Select the boxes corresponding to the item you want to display or include in the table.

OR

To hide them, clear the boxes.



Analyzing Traces and EventsSetting Trace Display Parameters

Setting Trace Display ParametersOnce you have launched the desired trace acquisition mode (Automatic, Advanced, or Template), you can change several trace display options:

the grid: You can display or hide the grid appearing on the graph’s background. By default, the grid is displayed.

the zoom window (Advanced and Template modes only): The zoom window shows you which portion of the graph is being magnified.

Note: The zoom window is only visible in the display when the Measure tab is selected.

the file name in the trace display: By default, the file name is displayed (at the top of the trace display).

Zoom window

Grid

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Analyzing Traces and EventsSetting Trace Display Parameters

To set the trace display parameters:

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

2. Select the boxes corresponding to the item you want to display on the graph.

OR

To hide them, clear the boxes.

Changes will be applied once you exit the OTDR Setup window.


Analyzing Traces and EventsSelecting the Measurement Unit

Selecting the Measurement UnitYou can select the measurement unit that will be used throughout the application, except for certain values such as the pulse and the wavelength. Pulse values are expressed in seconds and wavelength in meters (nanometers).

Measurement unit

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The default distance unit is the kilometer.

Note: If you select Kilometers (km) or Kilofeet (kft), m and ft may appear instead to display more precise measurements.

Unit used



To select the measurement unit for your display:

1. From the button bar, select OTDR Setup.

2. From the OTDR Setup window, select the General tab.

3. In the Distance units section, select the option corresponding to the desired distance unit.

4. Press Exit OTDR Setup. You return to the main window and the newly selected measurement unit appears everywhere units are used.

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Analyzing Traces and EventsDisplaying or Hiding a Trace

Displaying or Hiding a Trace There are two ways of displaying or hiding traces in the OTDR test application.

You can view, in turn, all the trace files you have opened, including main and reference traces, as well as multiwavelength traces.

You can select the fibers and the wavelengths (for multiwavelength files) that will be available when using the navigation button. You can also specify which trace will be displayed (current trace). By default, the application takes the last item from the list of trace files you have just opened.

To display or hide traces in turn:

Press the Next Trace button to switch from one fiber to another or from one wavelength to another (for multiwavelength files).

You can also use from the keypad.


Analyzing Traces and EventsDisplaying or Hiding a Trace

To specify which traces to display or hide:


2. Select the box(es) corresponding to the traces to display.

OR

Clear the box(es) to hide them.

Note: A hidden trace cannot be displayed with the navigation button. In multiwavelength trace files, you can show or hide traces independently.

From the list of traces, select the row corresponding to the trace you want to set as the current trace (the row will become highlighted) and press the Set as Active Trace button. The trace will turn black in the display to indicate that it was selected.

Note: In Template mode, since only one trace can be selected at a time in multiwavelength trace files, the Set as Active Trace button is not available.

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Analyzing Traces and EventsClearing Traces from the Display

Clearing Traces from the Display

Note: This function is available in Advanced OTDR mode only.

Note: Clearing traces from the display does not delete them from the disk.

Although the test application automatically opens the last trace files used, you can clear the screen and launch new acquisitions.Also, if a trace (main or reference) you acquired does not meet your requirements, you can clear that trace and start over.

To clear traces from the display:


2. From the Storage dialog box, press Clear Main or Clear Reference.

If you had already acquired or modified (but not stored) some traces, a warning message appears for each trace (even if the trace is hidden) asking you if you want to save it or not. Press Yes to save the trace.

3. Press Close to return to the main window. You can now acquire a new trace. For more information, see Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode on page 73.


Analyzing Traces and EventsAutomatically Zooming in on the Fiber Span

Automatically Zooming in on the Fiber Span

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

You can set the trace display to show only the span start to the span end of the trace in full-trace view. By default, this option is not selected.

To automatically zoom in on the fiber span:


2. From the OTDR Setup window, select the General tab.

3. Under Zoom options, select Zoom in automatically on defined fiber span to automatically zoom on the fiber span in the trace display when a trace is opened or selected, or after trace analysis.

OR

Clear the box to leave the zoom level as is.

Note: Zoom in automatically on defined fiber span is active only when in full-trace view, not when you have zoomed in on a trace.

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Analyzing Traces and EventsUsing Zoom Controls

Using Zoom ControlsUse the zoom controls to change the scale of the trace display. When the scale changes, the trace display is always centered in the area that you defined with the zoom box. You can also quickly zoom in on or out of the selected event.

When you manually zoom in or out on a trace (from the Measure tab), the application will apply the new zoom factor and marker positions to the other traces (wavelengths) of a same file. Both the zoom factor and marker positions will be saved along with the trace (same settings for all wavelengths).

When you zoom in or out on the selected event, the application keeps the zoom on this event until you select another event or change zoom or marker positions (via the Measure tab). You can select a different event for each wavelength (e.g., event 2 at 1310 nm and event 5 at 1550 nm). The selected events will be saved along with the trace.

Note: In Template mode, the zoom factor and marker positions correspond to those of the reference trace.


Analyzing Traces and EventsUsing Zoom Controls

To zoom in on the trace (Advanced and Template modes):

1. Press the button.

2. Use the zoom box to define the zooming area.

Drag the zoom box to the desired location.

Note: You can move the zoom box outside of the area shown in the trace display, but not outside of the trace display boundaries.

Drag the zoom box handles to delimit the desired zoom area.The coordinates are displayed in the lower portion of the trace display.

Note: You can zoom in on the horizontal and vertical scale independently.

Note: If you define the zoom area to the maximum permitted value and try to zoom in, the application will automatically zoom out instead.

3. Press OK to zoom in or Cancel to exit the zoom function.

To zoom out of a trace (Advanced and Template modes):

Simply press the button as many times as needed.

To revert to the complete graph view (Advanced and Template modes):

Press the button.

To automatically zoom in on the selected event:

1. Go to the Events tab.

2. From the events table, select the desired event.

3. Press the button to zoom in. Press the button again to zoom out.

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Analyzing Traces and EventsViewing and Modifying Current Trace Settings

Viewing and Modifying Current Trace SettingsYou can view the trace parameters and modify them at your convenience.

Note: Parameter modification is only possible in Advanced mode.

You can modify the index of refraction (IOR) also known as group index, Rayleigh backscatter (RBS) coefficient and Helix factor for the displayed trace.

Modifications you make are only applied to the current trace (that is, to a particular wavelength), not to all traces.

These modifications alter the displayed traces. These settings will also be used when you reanalyze the trace. However, if you want to modify the parameters that will be used for future acquisitions, see Setting the IOR, RBS Coefficient and Helix Factor on page 78

To view trace settings:

Go to the Trace Info. tab.

Note: Even if more than one trace is available, the Trace Info. tab only shows one at a time. To display the traces in turn, press Next Trace in the toolbar. The active trace appears in black in the trace display.



These parameters are displayed:

Wavelength: Test wavelength and type of fiber used: 9 μm (singlemode) or 50 μm/62.5 μm (multimode).

Pulse: Pulse width used to perform the acquisition.

Time: Duration (either in minutes or seconds) of the acquisition.

Span length: Measured length of the total fiber span between span start and span end.

Total loss: Total measured loss of the fiber between span start and span end.

Average loss: Average loss of the total fiber span, indicated as a function of distance.

Average Splice Loss: Average of all non-reflective events between span start and span end.

Max. splice loss: Maximum loss of all non-reflective events between span start and span end.

Total ORL: ORL calculated between the span start and the span end.

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High resolution: High-resolution option was selected to perform the acquisition. For more information, see Enabling the High-Resolution Feature on page 84.

Helix factor: Helix for the displayed trace. If you modify this parameter, the trace distance measurements will be adjusted.

IOR: Refraction index of the displayed trace, also known as group index. If you modify this parameter, the distance measurements for the trace will be adjusted.You can enter an IOR value directly or let the application calculate it with the distance between span start and span end you provide.

Backscatter: Rayleigh backscatter coefficient setting of the displayed trace. If you modify this parameter, the reflectance and ORL measurements for the trace will be adjusted.

Splice detection: Current setting for detecting small non-reflective events during trace analysis.

Refl. detection: Current setting for detecting small reflective events during trace analysis.

End-of-fiber det.: Current setting for detecting important event loss that could compromise signal transmission during trace analysis.



To modify the IOR, RBS coefficient and Helix factor parameters:

1. From the main window, select the Trace Info. tab.

Press the Fiber Settings button.

2. Enter the desired values for the current trace in the appropriate boxes.

OR

If you want to revert a particular item to its default value, press the Default button appearing next to this item.

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If you already know the IOR value, you can enter it in the corresponding box. However, if you prefer to let the application calculate the IOR value as function of the distance between span start and span end, press Set IOR by Distance, then enter the distance value.

Note: Except for the fiber type, modifications you make will only be applied to the current trace (that is, to a particular wavelength), not to all traces.

You can change the fiber type of a multimode trace. The application will adjust the fiber type of all multimode wavelengths (traces). Unless you are absolutely sure of the different parameter values, revert to default values to avoid fiber setting mismatches. You should do the same for other multimode wavelengths.

Press OK to apply the changes. You return to the main window.


Analyzing Traces and EventsInserting Events

Inserting EventsAt any time, you can insert an event in the events table manually.

This could be useful, for example, if you know that there is a splice at a given location, but the analysis does not detect it because it is hidden in the noise or because the splice loss is lower than the minimum detection threshold (see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 86).

You can add this event to the events table manually. This will add a number on the trace at the location of the insertion, but it will not modify the trace.

To insert an event:

1. From the Events tab, press Add New Event.

IMPORTANTInserted events are removed when you reanalyze a trace.

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Analyzing Traces and EventsInserting Events

2. Select the location where you want to insert an event.

Four markers are available to measure the inserted event, but only marker A identifies where the event will be.

Use the marker arrows to move marker A on the trace display.

3. Once you have determined the location, under Event, use the up/down arrows next to the box to select the desired event type.

4. Press OK to insert the event or Cancel to return to the events table without making any changes.


Analyzing Traces and EventsDeleting Events

Deleting Events


Almost any event can be deleted from the events table, except:

end of analysis

fiber section

launch level

end of fiber

span start

span end

Note: The “End-of-fiber” event indicates the span end that was set for the first analysis of the trace, not the span end assigned to another event or distance from the span end in the Analysis tab.

IMPORTANTThe only way to “recover” deleted items is to reanalyze the trace, as you would for a new trace. For more information, see Analyzing or Reanalyzing a Trace on page 139.

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Analyzing Traces and EventsDeleting Events

To delete an event:

1. Locate the event you want to delete (see Locating Events in the Trace Display and Events Table on page 113).

2. Select Delete. When the application prompts you, press Yes to confirm the deletion, or No to keep the event.


Analyzing Traces and EventsSetting the Analysis Detection Thresholds

Setting the Analysis Detection Thresholds


To optimize event detection, you can set the following analysis detection thresholds:

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

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.

End-of-fiber threshold: To stop the analysis as soon as an important event loss occurs; e.g., an event that could compromise signal transmission toward the end of a network.

IMPORTANTThe end-of-fiber (EoF) threshold that you define will be used in Automatic mode and in Advanced mode if you let the application evaluate the acquisition settings.

If you set this threshold, an EoF event will be inserted at the first event for which the loss crosses the threshold. The application will then use this EoF event to determine the acquisition settings.

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The following examples show how different splice-loss threshold levels can affect the number of displayed events, especially small non-reflective events such as those caused by two splices. Three traces are shown, corresponding to three threshold level settings.

Threshold at 0.05 dB

With the threshold set to 0.05 dB, two events are displayed at distances corresponding to the location of the first and second splices.

Threshold at 0.1 dB

Only the first splice is displayed, as the threshold is set to 0.1 dB and the second splice loss is lower than 0.1 dB.

Threshold at 0.15 dB

The first two splices are not displayed, as the threshold is set to 0.15 dB and the first and second splice losses are lower than 0.15 dB.

Event location



To set the analysis detection thresholds:


2. From the OTDR Setup window, select the Analysis tab.

3. Under Analysis parameters, set the parameters.

Enter the desired values in the appropriate boxes.

OR

Select the default settings by pressing Default.


The analysis detection thresholds you have just set are applied to all newly acquired traces, as well as to trace reanalysis.

Note: Analysis thresholds are only saved in the trace during analysis. For traces acquired, but not yet analyzed, you can change the analysis detection thresholds in the OTDR test application before performing the analysis.

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Analyzing Traces and EventsAnalyzing or Reanalyzing a Trace

Analyzing or Reanalyzing a Trace


You can analyze a displayed trace at any time. Analyzing or reanalyzing a trace will:

produce an events table for a trace, if there was none (e.g., the Analyze After Acquisition option was not selected (e.g., the Analyze Data Automatically after Acquisition option was not selected; see Enabling or Disabling Analysis After Acquisition on page 85).

reanalyze a trace acquired with a previous version of the software.

recreate the original events table if it was modified.

perform a Pass/Fail test, if enabled (for more information, see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 86).

If you prefer to focus your analysis on a specific fiber span, see Analyzing the Fiber on a Specific Fiber Span on page 141.


Analyzing Traces and EventsAnalyzing or Reanalyzing a Trace

To analyze or reanalyze a trace:

1. From the main window, go to the Events tab.

2. Press the Analyze button.

3. From the Reanalyze Trace dialog box, select an option for setting the span start and end markers on the trace. On the first analysis, this dialog box is not displayed and the default span start and end are applied (See Setting a Default Span Start and Span End on page 88).

Keep current span delimiter positions applies the current fiber span upon trace reanalysis.

Reset span delimiters positions applies the fiber span defined in the OTDR Setup upon trace reanalysis.


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Analyzing Traces and EventsAnalyzing the Fiber on a Specific Fiber Span

Analyzing the Fiber on a Specific Fiber Span


If you want to focus your fiber analysis on a specific fiber span, you can define events (new or existing) as a span start and/or span end.

Note: You can set a default span start and end, which will be applied during the first analysis or reanalysis performed upon trace acquisition.

To set a fiber span:

1. From the main window, go to the Events tab.

2. Define the span event location by moving marker A along the trace using one of the following options:

Drag marker A to the desired span event location.

Use the selection dial to move marker A.

Note: Each of these options may lead to the creation of a new event, except if your location corresponds to an already existing event on the trace.

3. Press Set as Span Start or Set as Span End to set the span start or span end marker on the appropriate event in the trace display.

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


Analyzing Traces and EventsSwapping Traces

Swapping Traces


Since the events table and the trace information are based on the main trace, you may want to interchange main and reference traces.

When you swap traces, the application will provide a new set of events corresponding to the new main trace.

To swap traces:


2. From the Storage dialog box, select Swap Main/Reference.

Note: You can change a main trace into a reference trace, and vice versa, even if only one trace is in the application’s memory.

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14 Analyzing the Results Manually

Once a trace has been acquired or opened, you can use markers and zoom in on or out of any event or trace segment to measure splice loss, fiber section attenuation, reflectance, and optical return loss.

Using MarkersYou can use markers to view the position and relative power of an event.

Markers are available when you press Measure from the main window.

To move a marker:

1. Press the markers button until it displays the desired marker. You can also use from the keypad.

In addition to the a, A, B, and b markers, you can select the Trace or All options.

2. Once the appropriate marker is selected, use the right and left arrow buttons to move the marker along the trace. You can also move it with the selection dial located on the front of the Unit.

If you zoom in on a trace and select the Trace option, pressing the right or left arrow moves the trace. In full-trace view, the Trace option has no effect on marker movement.

Power at A

Distance betweenspan start and B

Power at B

Distance between Aand B Power difference

between A and B

Left and right arrows

Distance betweenspan start and A


Analyzing the Results ManuallyUsing Markers

Note: You can also select the marker directly on the trace display and drag it to the desired position.

If a marker is moved close to another, both will move together. This ensures a minimum distance is maintained between markers.

A marker may disappear from the trace after you zoom in (see Using Zoom Controls on page 125). You can recall it by selecting a missing marker with the Markers button or by using one of the arrows to bring the selected marker back into the displayed area.

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Analyzing the Results ManuallyGetting Event Distances and Relative Powers

Getting Event Distances and Relative PowersThe OTDR test application automatically calculates the position of an event and displays this distance in the events table.

You can retrieve the position of an event as well as the distance between events manually. You can also display various relative power readings.

Distances and relative powers correspond to the X axis and Y axis, respectively.

To get the distance to an event and the associated relative power level:

1. From the main window, select the Measure tab.

2. Move marker A to the beginning of the event. For more information about markers, see Using Markers on page 143.


Analyzing the Results ManuallyGetting Event Loss (Four-Point and Least-Square Approximation)

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

Event loss (expressed in dB) is calculated by measuring the signal level reduction in Rayleigh backscatter (RBS) caused by this event. Event loss can result from both reflective and non-reflective events.

Two loss calculations are provided simultaneously: the four-point event loss and the A-B LSA loss. Both calculations use the least-square approximation (LSA) method to determine the event loss. However, the four-point event loss is the preferred method and the one that corresponds to the loss displayed in the events table.

Four-point event loss: the LSA method is used to fit a straight line to the backscatter data within the two regions defined by markers a, A and b, B, that is over the regions to the left and to the right of the event bordered by markers A and B, respectively.

The two fitted lines are then extrapolated toward the center of the event and the loss event is directly read from the drop in power between the two lines.

Four-point event lossa

b

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A-B LSA loss: the loss of the event bordered by the markers A and B is obtained by fitting a straight line to the backscatter data between these two markers.

The event is then obtained by the reduction in power (dB) over the distance between the two markers, as calculated from the slope of the fitted line.

Although this method works fairly well for splice loss, it is clearly not appropriate for reflective events (definitely not a “straight-line” event). A-B LSA Loss is mainly used to rapidly compute loss over a given length of a fiber section.

Note: A-B LSA event loss measurements should be used on fiber sections only. Measuring events will not yield meaningful results.

A-B LSA lossa

b



To get event loss:


2. In the Results section, press Loss. Markers a, A, B and b appear on the graph.

3. Zoom in and position marker A at the end of the linear area preceding the event to be measured. For more information, see Using Zoom Controls on page 125 and Using Markers on page 143.

4. Position submarker a at the beginning of the linear area preceding the event to be measured.

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5. Position marker B at the beginning of the linear area following the event to be measured.

6. Position submarker b at the end of the linear area following the event to be measured.

Least-square approximation

Four-point eventloss from the

areas delimited bymarkers

a, A, B and b


Analyzing the Results ManuallyGetting Attenuation (Two-Point and Least-Square Approximation)

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

A two-point attenuation measurement gives the reduction in Rayleigh backscatter level as a function of distance (expressed in dB/km) between two selected points. Only those two points are used to perform the calculation and there is no averaging.

The least-square approximation (LSA) method measures the attenuation (loss over distance) between two points by fitting a straight line in the backscatter data between markers A and B. The LSA attenuation corresponds to the difference in power (Δ dB) over the distance between two points.

The LSA method, when compared to the two-point method, gives an average measurement and is more reliable when there is a high level of noise. However, it should not be used if an event such as an echo appears between the two markers.

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Analyzing the Results ManuallyGetting Attenuation (Two-Point and Least-Square Approximation)

To get attenuation:


2. In the Results section, press the Att. button. Markers A and B appear on the graph.

3. Place markers A and B at any two points on the trace. For more information, see Using Markers on page 143.

4. Zoom in on the trace and fine-tune the marker positioning if necessary. For more information, see Using Zoom Controls on page 125.

Note: There should not be any events between markers A and B when performing the two-point attenuation measurement.

Least-square approximation

Loss over distancebetween markers

A and B


Analyzing the Results ManuallyGetting Reflectance

Getting ReflectanceReflectance is the ratio of reflected light to input light.

To get reflectance:


2. In the Results section, press the Refl. button. Markers a, A and B appear on the graph.

3. Zoom in and position marker A on the linear area preceding the event to be measured. For more information, see Using Zoom Controls on page 125 and Using Markers on page 143.

4. Position submarker a at the beginning of the linear area preceding the event to be measured.

5. Position marker B at the peak of the reflective event to be measured.

Note: Using this procedure, you can measure the reflectance of all the events in a merged reflective fault event.

Note: For non-reflective events, ∗∗∗∗∗ will be displayed.

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Analyzing the Results ManuallyGetting Optical Return Loss (ORL)

Getting Optical Return Loss (ORL)

Note: You must use a singlemode OTDR for ORL calculations.

The ORL calculation will provide the following information:

the ORL between markers A and B

the total ORL is calculated between the span start and the span end

Optical return loss (ORL) refers to the total effect of multiple reflections and scattering events within a fiber-optic system.

To get the ORL value:


2. In the Results section, press ORL. Markers A and B appear on the graph.

3. Position markers A and B to delimit the area for which you want to know the ORL value.


15 Managing Trace Files from the OTDR Test Application

Once you have acquired traces, or when you want to work with them after an acquisition, you will need to save, open, rename, and delete trace files.

You can save and open trace files from the OTDR test application. To rename, copy, move, and delete trace files, you must use the File Manager utility.

Saving a Trace in a Different Format With the OTDR application, you can save traces in native (.trc) and Bellcore (.sor) formats.

To save an OTDR trace file in a different format:

Use the ToolBox 6 application installed on a computer.


Managing Trace Files from the OTDR Test ApplicationOTDR Trace File Compatibility

OTDR Trace File Compatibility The table presented hereafter shows the compatibility between the format of a specific trace and the software that you may use to open that trace.

Symbols used in the table Meaning

X Fully compatible

Conv Conversion or reanalysis necessary

Not compatible

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Managing Trace Files from the OTDR Test ApplicationOTDR Trace File Compatibility

Software used to open the file...

ToolBox 5.5

ToolBox 6.5 or earlier

ToolBox 6.7 to 6.20

ToolBox 6.21 or later

FTB-100 2.5 or earlier

FTB-100 2.6 or 2.7

FTB-100 2.8 or later/

FTB-150FTB-200

File

gen

erat

ed w

ith

...

ToolBox 5.5 X X X X Conva

a. Should be saved in or converted to FTB-100 (.ftb100) format.

Conva Conva

ToolBox 6.5 or earlier

Convb

b. Should be reanalyzed to view the events table.

X X X Conva Conva Conva

ToolBox 6.7 to 6.20

Convc

c. Data should be saved in FTB-300 (.ftb300) format and reanalyzed to view the events table.

Convc X X Conva,d

d. Triple-wavelength trace files are not compatible.

Conva Conva

ToolBox 6.21 or later

Convc Convc Convf,e X Conva,d Conva X

FTB-100 2.2 or earlier

X X X X X X X

FTB-100 2.5 X X X X X X

FTB-100 2.6 or 2.7

X X X X X

FTB-100 2.8 or later/

FTB-150FTB-200

Conve,f

e. Should be converted to ToolBox 6.7-6.20 format.f. Should be converted with ToolBox 6.21 or later.

X Conva,d,f Conva,d,f X


Managing Trace Files from the OTDR Test ApplicationCopying, Moving, Renaming or Deleting Trace Files

Copying, Moving, Renaming or Deleting Trace Files

If you want to copy, move, rename or delete trace files, you will have to process the files manually via File Manager available from ToolBox CE. For more information, refer to your unit help.

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16 Creating and Printing Trace Reports

For future reference, you can add notes on the location of the tested fiber, type of job performed and general comments related to a trace in trace reports. You can specify which information must be included in your printed documents.

Documenting ResultsAfter acquiring a trace, you might want to include or update information about the tested fiber and job or add comments. The information you enter is saved only for the currently open trace file.

Note: The information must be entered before acquiring traces in Template mode. For more information, see Testing Fibers in Template Mode on page 91.

After entering the required data, you may save the contents as a template. The next time you access the report to document a newly acquired trace, the template is automatically recalled, eliminating repetitive documentation operations.

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 clear information from the Report window, both the common and the specific information will be deleted. The information specific to other wavelengths will not be deleted (you must delete it manually).


Creating and Printing Trace ReportsDocumenting Results

To document results:

1. From the button bar, once a trace has been acquired or reopened, press Report.

2. Enter the desired information.

Note: The information in the Date, Time, Unit and Serial no. boxes is provided by the application and cannot be edited. You can edit the Fiber ID only if the Use autonaming option is not selected.

Note: If you select the Use autonaming box, the Fiber ID box becomes unavailable.

If you want to save the contents as a template, use the Save as Template button.

3. Press Exit Report to return to the trace display. The information entered is saved with the trace and can be viewed or changed at any time using the same process.

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Creating and Printing Trace ReportsDocumenting Results

To clear all the information from the Report window:

Press the Clear All button.

Note: The information appearing in the Date, Time, Unit and Serial no. boxes cannot be deleted. The Fiber ID can only be deleted if the Use autonaming option is not selected.


Creating and Printing Trace ReportsPrinting a Report

Printing a ReportYou can print trace reports directly from your unit. By default, only the information related to the active trace is printed in a report, but you can select an option to print all the traces the current file contains (available in Advanced mode only). You can print two types of reports: summarized and detailed.

The following table shows the various items that can appear on a report, depending on the report type you choose:

Item appearing on the report Summarized Detailed

Cable information (fiber ID, cable ID, location A and B) X X

Link measurement (link length and loss, average loss, splice loss and total ORL)

X X

Test and cable setup for main and reference traces (file name, OTDR model, software version, wavelength, distance, refractive index, RBS, acquisition time, pulse width and helix factor)

X X

Events table (with fiber sections) X

Events table (without fiber sections) X

Trace X X

Job information (test date and time, unit serial and model numbers, job and customer ID)

X

Comments X

Marker information (a, A, b, B, and A to B distances, as well as A to B attenuation, loss and ORL). Available only if you select the option to include markers

X

Zoom (traces will be printed with the zoom factor you selected). Available only if you select the option to include zoom

X X

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You can include zoom and/or markers in your report.

There are two options for zoom:

Manual zoom: Graphs will be printed exactly as they appear on screen. The same zoom factor will be applied to all traces (wavelengths) of a particular file.

Zoom on selected event: Graphs will be printed with zoom on the area corresponding to the selected event (one event per trace, i.e. per wavelength).



To print reports:

1. From the button bar, press Print.

2. From the Print dialog box, select the report options:

Report format

Desired zoom

Markers

Select the Print all traces check box to print all traces (wavelengths) from the current file (option available in Advanced mode only)

Note: In Automatic mode, the trace report that prints is always the summarized one. The report format options are not displayed.

3. Select Print to launch the process. You will automatically return to the main window.

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17 Using the OTDR as a Light Source or VFL

If you want to perform measurements with a power meter and your OTDR as a source, the OTDR port can transmit a special tone. This port can be used only to transmit—not detect that tone.

The Visual Fault Locator (VFL) application is used to set the OTDR to send a red signal along the fiber, which can be used for visual fault location and fiber identification.

Note: The VFL option will be available only if your OTDR is equipped with a VFL port.



Using the OTDR as a Light Source or VFL

To use your Optical Time Domain Reflectometer as a source:

1. Clean the connectors properly (see Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers on page 64).

2. Connect one end of the fiber under test to the OTDR port.


3. From the main window, go to the Source/VFL tab.

4. Select the wavelength you want to use.

Note: If only one wavelength is available, it is selected by default.

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5. Select the desired modulation.

Under Modulation,

For loss measurement, with a power meter at the other end, select Continuous.

For fiber identification, select 1 kHz or 2 kHz. This will allow the person at the other end of the link to identify the fiber under test, which could be particularly useful when working with cables containing many fibers.

For easier fiber identification, the application also offers a flashing pattern. If you select this option, the modulated signal (1 KHz or 2 KHz) will be sent for 1 second, then will be off for the next second, then be sent again for 1 second, and so on. If you want the OTDR to emit light in a flashing pattern, select 1 kHz+Blink or 2 kHz+Blink.

6. Under Source, press Turn ON. You can stop light emission at any time by pressing Turn OFF.

Using an EXFO power meter with tone-detection features, such as the FOT-930 or FPM-300, an operator at the other end will be able to quickly locate the correct fiber or perform loss measurements. Refer to the power meter user guide for details.



To identify fiber faults visually:

1. Clean the connectors properly (see Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers on page 64).

2. Connect the fiber under test to the VFL port.

3. From the main window, go to the Source/VFL tab.

4. Select Continuous to use the VFL with continuous output or Blink to use the VFL with 1 Hz pulsed output.

5. Under VFL, press Turn ON to send the VFL signal. You can stop the VFL signal emission at any time by pressing Turn OFF.

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18 Description of Event TypesThis section describes all types of events that may appear in the events table generated by the application. Here is a guide to the descriptions:

Each type of event has its own symbol.

Each type of event is represented by a graph of a fiber trace, which illustrates the power reflected back toward the source as a function of distance.

An arrow points to the location of the event type in the trace.

Most graphs show one complete trace; that is, an entire acquisition range.

Some graphs show only a portion of the entire range to view events of interest more closely.

Span Start The Span Start of a trace is the event that marks the beginning of the fiber span. By default, the Span Start is placed on the first event of a tested fiber (typically the first connector of the OTDR itself).

You can make another event the start of the span you want to focus your analysis on. This will set the beginning of the events table at a specific event along the trace.

Span End The Span End of a trace is the event that marks the end of the fiber span. By default, the Span End is placed on the last event of a tested fiber, and is called the end-of-fiber event.

You can also make another event the end of the span you want to focus your analysis on. This will set the end of the events table at a specific event along the trace.


Description of Event TypesContinuous Fiber

Continuous Fiber

This event indicates that the selected acquisition range was shorter than the fiber length.

The fiber end was not detected because the analysis process ended before reaching the end of the fiber.

The acquisition distance range should therefore be increased to a value greater than the fiber length.

There is no loss or reflectance specified for continuous fiber events.

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Description of Event TypesEnd of Analysis

End of Analysis

This event indicates that the pulse width used did not provide enough dynamic range to get to the end of the fiber.

The analysis ended before reaching the end of the fiber because the signal-to-noise ratio was too low.

The pulse width should therefore be increased so the signal reaches the end of the fiber with a sufficient signal-to-noise ratio.

There is no loss or reflectance specified for end-of-analysis events.


Description of Event TypesNon-Reflective Event

Non-Reflective Event

This event is characterized by a sudden decrease in the Rayleigh backscatter signal level. It appears as a discontinuity in the downward slope of the trace signal.

This event is often caused by splices, macrobends, or microbends in the fiber.

A loss value is specified for non-reflective events. There is no reflectance specified for this type of event.

If you set thresholds, the application indicates a non-reflective fault in the events table, whenever a value exceeds the loss threshold (see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 86).

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Description of Event TypesReflective Event

Reflective Event

Reflective faults appear as spikes in the fiber trace. They are caused by an abrupt discontinuity in the index of refraction.

Reflective events cause a significant portion of the energy initially launched into the fiber to be reflected back toward the source.

Reflective events may indicate the presence of connectors, mechanical splices, or even poor-quality fusion splices or cracks.

A loss and a reflectance value are normally specified for reflective events.

When the reflective spike reaches the maximum level, its top may be clipped due to the saturation of the detector. As a result, the dead zone—or minimum distance for making a detection or attenuation measurement between this event and a second nearby—may be increased.

If you set thresholds, the application indicates a reflective fault in the events table, whenever a value exceeds reflectance and/or connector loss threshold(s) (see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 86).


Description of Event TypesPositive Event

Positive Event

This event indicates a splice with an apparent gain, due to the junction of two fiber sections having different fiber backscatter characteristics (backscatter and backscatter capture coefficients).

A loss value is specified for positive events. The loss specified does not indicate the true loss of the event.

The true loss has to be measured by performing bidirectional fiber measurements and bidirectional analysis.

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Description of Event TypesLaunch Level

Launch Level

This event indicates the level of the signal launched into the fiber.

The figure above shows how the launch level is measured.

A straight line is plotted using least-square approximation to fit all trace points in the linear area between the first and second detected events.

The straight line is projected toward the Y (dB) axis until it crosses the axis.

The crossing point indicates the launch level.

<<<< in the events table indicates that the launch level is too low.


Description of Event TypesFiber Section

Fiber Section

This symbol denotes a fiber section with no event.

The sum of all fiber sections contained in an entire fiber trace equals the total fiber length. Detected events are distinct—even if they cover more than one point on the trace.

A loss value is specified for fiber section events. No reflectance is specified for this type of event.

The attenuation (dB/distance) is obtained by dividing the loss by the fiber section length.

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Description of Event TypesMerged Reflective Event

Merged Reflective Event

This symbol denotes a reflective event combined with one or more other reflective events. It also indicates the total loss produced by the merged reflective events following it in the events table.

A Merged Reflective Event is composed of reflective events. Only the Merged Reflective Event is displayed in the events table, not the reflective subevents composing it.

Reflective events may indicate the presence of connectors, mechanical splices, or poor-quality fusion splices or cracks.

A reflectance value is specified for all merged reflective events and indicates the maximum reflectance for the merged event. A reflectance value is also displayed for each subevent composing the Merged Reflective Event.

Reflective Faults

Point A

Point BMerged Reflective Event position

Total loss (Δ dB)


Description of Event TypesMerged Reflective Event

The total loss (Δ dB) produced by the events is measured by plotting two straight lines.

The first line is plotted by fitting, through least-square approximation, trace points in the linear area preceding the first event.

The second line is plotted by fitting, through least-square approximation, trace points in the linear area following the second event. If there were more than two merged events, this line would be plotted in the linear area following the last merged event. This line is then projected toward the first merged event.

The total loss (Δ dB) equals the power difference between the point where the first event begins (point A) and the point on the projected straight line located just below the first event (point B).

No loss value can be specified for the subevents.

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Description of Event TypesEcho

Echo

This symbol indicates that a reflective event has been detected after the end of the fiber.

In the example above, the launched pulse travels up to the end connector and is reflected back toward the OTDR. Then, it reaches the second connector and is reflected again toward the end connector. It is then reflected back to the OTDR.

The application interprets this new reflection as an echo because of its characteristics (reflectance and particular position with respect to other reflections).

The distance between the second connector reflection and the end connector reflection is equal to the distance between the end connector reflection and the echo.

There is no loss specified for echo events.


Description of Event TypesReflective Event (Possible Echo)

Reflective Event (Possible Echo)

This symbol indicates a reflective event that can be a real reflection or an echo produced by another stronger reflection located closer to the source.

In the example above, the launched pulse hits the third connector, is reflected back to the OTDR and reflected again into the fiber. It then reaches the third connector a second time and is reflected once more to the OTDR.

The application would therefore detect a reflective event located at twice the distance of the third connector. Since this event is almost null (no loss), and since its distance is a multiple of the third connector distance, The application would interpret it as a possible echo.

A reflectance value is specified for reflective events (possible echo).

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19 Introducing the FTB-3930 MultiTest Module

The FTB-3930 MultiTest Module integrates a power meter and light sources with an optical return loss meter, optional talk set and visual fault locator.

Main FeaturesThe unit features FASTEST™, EXFO’s one-touch automated measurement. In 10 seconds, you can simultaneously test IL and ORL at up to four wavelengths, in both directions. During the same test, the unit also determines fiber length.

The power meter has the following characteristics:

Ge, GeX or InGaAs detector with 40 calibrated wavelengths to measure absolute power or link loss

Editable list of favorite wavelengths for easy access

Modulated signal detection

No offset nulling required in normal operation

The light source has the following characteristics:

Singlemode port (two or three wavelengths), also used for FASTEST and ORL.

AND/OR

Multimode port (two wavelengths), also used for FASTEST only.

Modulated or high-power signal compatible with other EXFO units


Introducing the FTB-3930 MultiTest ModuleTypical Applications

Other test utilities:

Text messaging

Full-duplex digital talk set (optional)

Visual fault locator to inspect or identify fibers (optional)

Result processing and analysis features (also available in the Optical Test Report Viewer application):

Customizable test thresholds with visual pass/fail analysis

Customize user settings and cable identification parameters

FASTEST results displayed according to FTTx usage and terminology

Typical ApplicationsYou can use the MultiTest Module for several applications, such as:

Fiber installation and maintenance applications

FTTx: testing of passive optical networks (PONs)

Absolute power or link loss measurements

Bidirectional loss and ORL testing

Length measurement

All-in-one tool for contractors

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20 Customizing Your MultiTest Module

To set a length/distance unit:

1. From the main window, press Setup, then select the Preferences tab.

2. Select the desired unit.

Note: The length unit affects thresholds and fiber length only.

To add results on master unit

To add results on remote unit

To save results automatically


Customizing Your MultiTest Module

To automate adding and saving results:

1. From the main window, press Setup, then select the Preferences tab.

2. Select one or more of the following options:

Save file after adding 10 results to list: if you select this option, you will not need to manually save your file (with Save or Save As) after adding results to the Tested fibers list.

Add result to list on this unit after FASTEST: if you select this option, you will not need to press Add to add your result to the Tested fibers list. When your MultiTest Module is the remote unit, it consequently ignores automatic save settings from the master unit.

Add result to remote unit after FASTEST: if you select this option and your MultiTest Module is the master unit, the result will automatically be sent and stored on the remote unit.

Note: For details about naming settings, see Setting Autonaming Scheme on page 187.

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21 Setting Up Your MultiTest ModuleInstalling the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI)

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

To install an EUI connector adapter onto the EUI baseplate:

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

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

3. Insert the connector adapter into the baseplate.

4. While pushing firmly, turn the connector adapter clockwise on the baseplate to lock it in place.

Bare metal(or blue border)

indicates UPCoption

Green borderindicates APC

option

2 43


Setting Up Your MultiTest ModuleCleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers

Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers

To connect the fiber-optic cable to the port:

1. Clean the fiber ends as follows:

1a. Gently wipe the fiber end with a lint-free swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol.

1b. Use compressed air to dry completely.

1c. Visually inspect the fiber end to ensure its cleanliness.

2. 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.

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

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

Note: If your fiber-optic cable is not properly aligned and/or connected, you will notice heavy loss and reflection.

IMPORTANTTo ensure maximum power and to avoid erroneous readings:

Always clean fiber ends as explained below before inserting them into the port. EXFO is not responsible for damage or errors caused by bad fiber cleaning or handling.

Ensure that your patchcord has appropriate connectors. Joining mismatched connectors will damage the ferrules.

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Setting Autonaming Scheme

Setting Autonaming SchemeWhen starting a new file, the unit suggests an initial fiber name. After adding a result to the Tested fibers list, the unit prepares the next fiber name by incrementing the suffix.

When you manually change the name for the first time (in Power Meter, ORL Meter or FASTEST), the unit then ignores autonaming settings.

Cable names: maximum 60 characters for prefix, plus 3-digit suffix(or Microsoft Windows limitations when name is manually set)

Fiber names: maximum 11 characters for prefix, plus 3-digit suffix(duplicate names allowed when name is manually set)

Note: If you manually change a fiber name, then turn the unit off without saving at least one result, this name will be discarded.

IMPORTANTTo start using new autonaming settings, you must close the current file.


Setting Autonaming Scheme

To set the autonaming scheme:

1. From the main window, press Setup, then select the Results tab.

2. Set the names/values, then press OK.

Note: The cable name you set here will be the suggested file name when saving.

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Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds

Setting Pass/Fail ThresholdsYou can define groups of thresholds to specify acceptable power (in W or dBm), power reference (in dB), FASTEST loss (in dB and dB per distance unit) and ORL values (in dB) for each wavelength.

Thresholds are supplied by system manufacturers and depend on the system deployed.

Measurements exceeding a threshold are shown with an exclamation mark. In the test tabs, these measurements also have a red background.

Note: When transferring results from handheld unit to computer, thresholds are not transferred along with results.

IMPORTANTThresholds are not saved with measurements. Results are compared to the threshold group currently associated to the file (for FASTEST results, not necessarily the master unit).



To set power, loss or ORL thresholds:

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

2. In the Threshold groups list, select a group to modify.

OR

Create a new group by pressing New. Duplicate names are allowed, but you should always use distinct names to avoid confusion.

3. Select loss units (dB or dB/distance; distance units are selected in the Preferences tab) or power units.

Add wavelength and its thresholds

Delete threshold for selected wavelength

Edit thresholds for selected wavelentgh

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4. In the Thresholds list, select a wavelength for which you want to set thresholds, then press Edit.

OR

Add a new wavelength to the list by pressing New. Wavelengths that are not supported by FASTEST are simply ignored in FASTEST result tables.

5. In the text boxes, modify threshold values for the selected wavelength, then press OK to confirm the new thresholds (or Cancel to return to previous values).

You select power units and FASTEST loss units (dB or dB/distance) on the Thresholds tab (and distance units on the Preferences tab).

6. Press OK to return to the main window.

To rename a threshold group:

1. From the Thresholds tab, select a group in the Threshold groups list.

2. Press Rename, then set the new name (maximum 64 characters) and press OK.

dBm power units selected in Result tab

Watt power units selected in Result tab


22 Measuring Power or LossThe FTB-3930 MultiTest Module is equipped with an optical power meter to measure absolute power (in dBm or W) or insertion loss (in dB). The power meter port is independent of the FASTEST port.

The following functions are available on your power meter:

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Power meter port

Switch betweenfavorite

wavelengths

Display power(W or dBm)or loss (dB)

Perform offset nulling

Set reference forloss measurement

Measured power/loss

Value under threshold

Change name of next saved fiber

Add current value to Tested Fibers (to actually save data, press Save on function bar)


Measuring Power or LossDefining the List of Favorite Wavelengths

Defining the List of Favorite WavelengthsYou must put the wavelengths you want to use on a list of favorite wavelengths. Only wavelengths selected from this list are available for measurements.

By default, the list contains 22 of the 40 calibrated wavelengths.

Specifications are guaranteed for calibrated wavelengths only. For other wavelengths, the unit will determine values based on the calibrated wavelengths (3-point interpolation).

Note: The list must always contain at least one selected wavelength.

Detector Type

CalibratedWavelengths (nm)

Default Favorite Wavelengths (nm)

InGaAs

Ge

800, 820, 830, 840, 850, 860, 870, 880, 910, 980, 1270, 1280, 1290, 1300, 1310, 1320, 1330, 1340, 1390, 1450, 1460, 1470, 1480, 1490, 1500, 1510, 1520, 1530, 1540, 1550, 1560, 1570, 1580, 1590, 1600, 1610, 1620, 1630, 1640, 1650.

800, 840, 850,860, 910, 980,1280, 1300, 1310,1320, 1450,1470, 1480, 1490,1510, 1520, 1530, 1540, 1550, 1560,1570, 1625.

GeX All the above, plus 1370 and 1060. Same as above.

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Measuring Power or LossDefining the List of Favorite Wavelengths

To customize the list of favorite and selected wavelengths:

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

2. Scroll through the list.

3. Press on the highlighted wavelength to select/deselect it. An X appears beside selected wavelengths.

4. If a wavelength does not appear on the list, enter its value in the New wavelength box and press Add. You can also remove a wavelength from the list by pressing Delete.

5. Repeat these steps for other wavelengths as necessary.

6. Press OK to return to the main window.

To revert to the factory-default list:

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

2. Press Revert to factory settings.


Measuring Power or LossNulling Electrical Offsets

Nulling Electrical OffsetsTemperature and humidity variations affect the performance of electronic circuits and optical detectors. Nulling the electrical offsets eliminate these effects.

Your unit has been designed not to require offset nulling under normal operation, but you should perform it whenever environmental conditions change significantly or when measuring very low power values.

Note: Starting a nulling automatically deactivates all light sources on the unit.

To perform an offset nulling:

1. From the main window, select the Power Meter tab.

2. Press Nulling.

3. Tighten the protective caps on the power meter and FASTEST ports, then press OK.

The nulling process takes approximately 10 seconds. Nulling status is indicated in the data display. If light is still detected, you will need to place the caps properly and restart.

IMPORTANTLight must not reach detectors when nulling offsets. Always use an EUI or protective screw cap. Do not use a soft rubber cover.

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Measuring Power or LossReferencing Your Power Meter to a Source

Referencing Your Power Meter to a SourceIn reference mode, your unit displays the loss created by the fiber under test only, since it subtracts a reference value from the measured power.

Note: The reference value you set for each wavelength remains in memory until a new one is set for the same wavelength, even when you turn the unit off.

To reference the power meter to a source:


2. Check your fibers and clean them properly for optimum performance (see Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers on page 186).

3. Using one of the following methods, connect a light source to the power meter port of your unit.

One single reference patchcord

Two reference patchcords and a bulkhead adapter

FTB-3930

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Lightsource

Powermeter

Adapter

Referencepatchcord



4. Activate the source at the desired wavelength.

5. Match the power meter wavelength with the source wavelength as follows:

Scroll through the Wavelength list to switch between favorite wavelengths of your power meter (see Defining the List of Favorite Wavelengths on page 194).

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Lightsource

Powermeter

Adapter

Referencepatchcord

Bulkheadadapter

Referencepatchcord

Measured loss

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6. Scroll through the Unit list until you get dB units to retrieve the last saved reference.

OR

Press Reference to save the current power as the new reference.

Reference power appears (in dBm) and current loss is automatically switched to dB.

7. Repeat the procedure for each wavelength you want to reference.


Measuring Power or LossMeasuring Power or Loss

Measuring Power or LossMeasuring absolute power or link loss is done the same way, except for the referencing step. You can take power or loss measurements and save them for further analysis.

To perform power or loss measurements:



3. Check your fibers and clean them properly (see Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers on page 186).

4. For loss measurements, reference your power meter to a light source (see Referencing Your Power Meter to a Source on page 197), then deactivate the light source.

5. If you have used a single reference patchcord, disconnect it from the power meter port only, then attach a second reference patchcord to the power meter.

OR

If you have used two reference patchcords, disconnect both of them at the bulkhead.

CAUTIONConnect high-power live fiber to the power meter port only.

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6. Using bulkhead adapters or the system patch panels, connect a fiber under test to reference patchcords attached to the light source and power meter.

7. Activate the source at the desired wavelength.

8. Match the power meter wavelength with the source wavelength as follows:

Scroll through the Wavelength list to switch between favorite wavelengths of your power meter (see Defining the List of Favorite Wavelengths on page 194).

If the unit detects a modulated signal, it beeps and the signal frequency is indicated in the status bar.

9. Scroll through the Unit list to select the desired power (W or dBm) or loss (dB) unit.

Referencepatchcord

Referencepatchcord

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Lightsource

Powermeter

Adapter

Fiberunder test

Bulkheadadapter

Bulkheadadapter



10. Add the displayed values to the Tested fibers list if you want. If auto-save is activated (see Customizing Your MultiTest Module on page 183), results are automatically saved after adding them to the list.

10a.Change the displayed cable and fiber names as needed.

10b.Press Add to save the value along with wavelength, reference power, date and time. The fiber name will increment automatically, ready to save the next value.

For details about viewing results, see Managing Test Results on page 223.

11. Repeat the procedure for other wavelengths.

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23 Measuring Optical Return LossOptical return loss (ORL) is the total effect of multiple reflections and scattering events within a fiber-optic system.

The FTB-3930 MultiTest Module is equipped with an ORL meter to measure ORL for singlemode fibers. The ORL meter uses the FASTEST SM (singlemode) port only.

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TORL meter port

Current wavelength

Set reference usingany patchcord

Switch betweensinglemode

wavelengths

Calibrate ORL metersensitivity

Set reference usingORL calibrated patchcord (best)

ORL meter sensitivity

Measured ORL (positive value)

Value under threshold

Change name of next saved fiber

Add current value to Tested fibers (to actually save data, press Save on function bar)


Measuring Optical Return Loss

The ORL measurement procedure is outlined below:

SetORL zero

MeasureORL

Saveresults

PerformORL reference

Set up thresholds(see page 189)

Null offsets(see page 196)

Selectwavelength

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Measuring Optical Return LossPerforming ORL Reference and Setting ORL Zero Value

Performing ORL Reference and Setting ORL Zero Value

The ORL zero measurement eliminates the effects of backreflection on the link before the component under test, so your unit displays only the backreflection of this component.

You should set a new ORL zero:

when you change the measurement patchcord (the one connected to the DUT, not the reference patchcord)

when you remove a connection between the unit and mandrel

To set the ORL zero value (all wavelengths at once):

1. From the main window, select the ORL Meter tab.

2. Press ORL Zero.

3. Connect a patchcord to the FASTEST SM port.

Termination Componentunder test

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Measuring Optical Return LossPerforming ORL Reference and Setting ORL Zero Value

4. Terminate the fiber as close as possible before the component under test. Wrap it at least 10 turns around a mandrel or small diameter tool, adding turns until the reading stabilizes.

5. Press OK to save the ORL zero value, then remove the termination.

To revert to the factory-default ORL zero value:


2. Press Default ORL Zero.

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Measuring Optical Return LossPerforming and Saving ORL Measurements

Performing and Saving ORL MeasurementsYou can define ORL thresholds (see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 189) before or after measuring ORL. ORL values below thresholds are displayed in red.

To measure ORL:



3. Scroll through the Wavelength list to select a singlemode wavelength.

4. Check your fibers and clean them properly (see Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers on page 186).

5. Connect a fiber to the FASTEST SM port of your unit.



6. Perform an ORL reference with one of the following:

Using an ORL calibrated patchcord (14.7 dB), press ORL Reference.

If no such patchcord is available, press Loopback Ref and use another patchcord connected to the power meter port.

7. Perform an ORL zero measurement (see Performing ORL Reference and Setting ORL Zero Value on page 205).

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8. Terminate the fiber as close as possible after the component under test. Wrap it at least 10 turns around a mandrel or small diameter tool, adding turns until the reading stabilizes.

Note: Avoid bending the fiber between the unit and the termination point.

The displayed value represents the ORL of the component under test.

9. Add the displayed values to the Tested fibers list if you want. If auto-save is activated (see Customizing Your MultiTest Module on page 183), results are automatically saved (along with wavelength, date and time) after adding them to the list.

9a. Change the displayed cable and fiber names as needed.

9b. Press Add. The fiber name will increment automatically, ready to save the next value.

For details about viewing results, see Managing Test Results on page 223.

10. Repeat procedure for other wavelengths if necessary.

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TerminationComponentunder test


24 Performing Automated IL/ORL/Length Measurements (FASTEST)

FASTEST allows you to perform 2- or 3-wavelength bidirectional loss and ORL tests for singlemode fibers, or 2-wavelength loss tests for multimode fibers, in 10 seconds (including fiber length measurement).

FASTEST is useful in high-fiber-count installations. Activated at the touch of a button, FASTEST cuts down on training time and provides error-free results.

To use FASTEST, you need a compatible unit (such as FTB-3930, FOT-930, FOT-920 or FTB-3920, but not the FOT-910). The unit at the remote end is only used to establish references. It then waits for commands from the unit initiating FASTEST (master).

The FASTEST procedure is outlined below:

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FASTEST singlemode (SM) and multimode (MM) ports

Perform FASTEST

Performreference

Saveresults

Set ORL zero(see page 205)

Null offsets(see page 196)

Set upFASTEST

Set up thresholds(see page 189)


Performing Automated IL/ORL/Length Measurements (FASTEST)Setting Up the FASTEST

Setting Up the FASTESTYou can configure the FASTEST on the master unit only. The remote unit will automatically adapt to these parameters (FASTEST parameters on remote unit are ignored).

Setup includes the following elements:

Port and DUT (fiber) type: multimode FASTEST will not include ORL.

Compatibility: select FOT-930 / FTB-3930 for fast, two- or three-wavelength testing including ORL (it requires two FOT-930/FTB-3930). Use FOT-920 / FTB-3920 when other unit is an FOT-920 or FTB-3920.

Mode/wavelengths: select one or more wavelengths for the FASTEST. Depending on your choice, the FASTEST will include loss and/or ORL measurements. Selecting FTTx Custom or FTTx All allows you to define upstream and downstream wavelengths.

Unit location: in FTTx mode, you specify if the master unit is closer to the CO (or to the premises) than the remote unit.

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Performing Automated IL/ORL/Length Measurements (FASTEST)Setting Up the FASTEST

To set up the FASTEST:

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

2. Select the FASTEST parameters.

To revert to factory-default FASTEST settings:

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

2. Press Revert to factory settings.


Performing Automated IL/ORL/Length Measurements (FASTEST)Referencing Units for FASTEST

Referencing Units for FASTESTReferencing subtracts the loss caused by the test setup components from the overall loss measured during FASTEST. The final result represents the loss inserted by the system under test alone.

Two referencing methods are available:

Side-by-Side Method (Best) Loopback Method

Description Reference taken with both units together using their FASTEST ports. Slightly more accurate value than loopback method.

Reference taken separately on each unit (FASTEST port connected to power meter port).

Location of units Must be at same location. Can be at different locations.

Loss included in FASTEST result

Loss due to system under test and one connector mating.

Loss due to system under test and the two connector matings.

Elements to consider

Includes neither an ORL reference nor an ORL zero measurement. To obtain them, use the ORL Meter pane (see Performing ORL Reference and Setting ORL Zero Value on page 205).

With multiple referencing, you may coordinate an FTB-3930 with up to 10 FOT-930 units.

When measuring ORL (FASTEST or ORL meter), accounts for connector loss and adjusts ORL calibration accordingly.

Not recommended for short links.

Systemunder test

Connector mating

Connectormating

Systemunder test

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To perform a side-by-side reference:

1. On the master unit (the one initiating the test), select the FASTEST tab.

2. In the Reference pane, select the Side-by-side reference type. The data display shows previous reference values (if any) for the currently connected remote unit.

3. Connect both units through their FASTEST ports, using two reference patchcords and a bulkhead adapter.

IMPORTANTWith its multiple referencing feature, your unit saves the last 10 side-by-side references for each DUT type and compatibility mode.

Referencepatchcord

Bulkheadadapter

Referencepatchcord

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4. Press Take Reference. After a few seconds, the unit displays new reference values for each wavelength on both units. If values are not acceptable, try to clean connectors and repeat this step.

5. Disconnect the two patchcords from the bulkhead only and connect them to the fiber under test (using bulkhead adapters or the system patch panels).

IMPORTANTYou can turn off the unit without losing the reference.

If you disconnect the patchcords from the FASTEST ports, you must take a new reference.

Serial number of unit on other side

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To perform a loopback reference:

1. On the master unit (the one initiating the test), select the FASTEST tab.

2. In the Reference pane, select the Loopback reference type. The data display shows previous reference values (if any).

3. Connect a reference patchcord from the FASTEST port to the power meter adapter.

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Referencepatchcord

Adapter



4. Press Take Reference. After a few seconds, the unit displays new reference values for each wavelength. If values are not acceptable, try to clean connectors and repeat this step.

5. Disconnect the reference patchcord from the power meter adapter only and connect it to the fiber under test.

6. Repeat the procedure with the second unit.

IMPORTANTYou can turn off the unit without losing the reference.

If you disconnect the patchcord from the FASTEST port, you must take a new reference.

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Performing Automated IL/ORL/Length Measurements (FASTEST)Performing the FASTEST

Performing the FASTESTAlthough FASTEST requires two units (one at each end of the fiber under test), you initiate it from only one (the master). Both units use FASTEST settings from the master unit.

To perform a FASTEST:

Unit A (Master) Unit B

1. If necessary, null the offsets (see Nulling Electrical Offsets on page 196).

1. If necessary, null the offsets.

2. Clean your fibers properly (see Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers on page 186).

2. Clean your fibers properly.

3. Set up the FASTEST (see Setting Up the FASTEST on page 212).

4. If you are testing ORL, perform an ORL zero measurement from the ORL Meter pane (see Performing ORL Reference and Setting ORL Zero Value on page 205).

3. If you are testing ORL, perform an ORL zero measurement from the ORL Meter pane.

5. Reference your unit (see Referencing Units for FASTEST on page 214).

4. Reference your unit.



6. Connect reference patchcord to fiber under test (as shown):

5. Connect reference patchcord to fiber under test (as shown):

7. From the button bar, press FASTEST (large green button).

The units establish communication and automated tests begin. Measurements appear on both units as they are taken.

8. Add the displayed values to the Tested fibers list if you want. If automatic save was activated for one or both units (see Customizing Your MultiTest Module on page 183), results are already added to the list.

8a. Change the displayed cable and fiber names as needed.

8b. Press Add. The fiber name increments automatically, ready to save the next value.


Referencepatchcord

Fiberunder test

Referencepatchcord

Bulkheadadapter

Bulkheadadapter

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For details about viewing FASTEST results, see Managing Test Results on page 223.

If you are not satisfied with the results, press FASTEST and redo the test.


Measured values

Calculated fiber length

Add current value to Tested fibers (to actually save data, press Save on function bar)

Change name ofnext added fiber


25 Managing Test ResultsViewing and Deleting Results

You can save all your results (FASTEST, power/loss and ORL) on your Compact Modular Platform, along with references and date/time of tests. You will save and recall this data according to cable names (or any Windows file name).

Before or after saving the current file, you can view and edit results at any time (as long as a result was added to a Tested fibers list).

IMPORTANTThe date and time of FASTEST references are not saved. They are displayed with the results immediately after the test only.


Managing Test ResultsViewing and Deleting Results

To view and process test results:

From the MultiTest Module application’s main window, select the Results tab. The following functions are available when viewing results:

Note: For more accuracy, the loss average is always calculated from loss values in W and then converted to dB.

IMPORTANTThe threshold group you select will remain associated with the file, even if you change the default group. However, if you change values in the selected group, they will apply to your results.

To modify job or cable information

To select current threshold group

To mark fiber fordeletion

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Managing Test ResultsCustomizing Result Display

Customizing Result DisplayYou can customize the following elements:

Custom fields: sets the names of fields in the Edit Job Information and Edit Cable Information dialog boxes. When you change the field name, data in this field is kept.

You can also define default initial cable and fiber names. For details, see Setting Autonaming Scheme on page 187.

To customize the display of results:

1. From the main window, press Setup, then select the Results tab.

2. Set parameters and press OK.

From Edit JobInformation

From Edit CableInformation


26 Using a Light SourceYour unit may contain two source ports: a 2- or 3-wavelength singlemode port and a 2-wavelength multimode port, depending on the configuration.

The source signal can be continuous (CW or high-power) or modulated (270 Hz, 1 kHz or 2 kHz) and uses the FASTEST ports.

CW signal (the default): constant power over the temperature range, but about 3 dB lower than maximum.

High-power signal: reaches maximum power, but its power slightly varies over the temperature range.

If you switch to power meter or ORL meter, a Source status pane is always displayed.

When you switch sources, the modulation remains the same. It is indicated in the data display.

Only one source/wavelength may be active at a time. The active port (SM or MM) is indicated in the data display.

The source status is indicated with a LED in the status bar and on the Compact Modular Platform front panel.

Note: The Compact Modular Platform front panel always shows the source, VFL, ORL meter or talk set port status (even when you use other applications).

WARNINGWhen 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.

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Source singlemode (SM) and multimode (MM) ports


Using a Light Source

To activate a light source:

1. Connect the fiber under test to the source port (see Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers on page 186).

2. From the main window, select the Source/VFL tab (units with a VFL) or the Source tab (units with no VFL).

3. In the Source pane, select a wavelength using the Wavelength dial.

4. Slide the Power switch to On.

To deactivate a light source:

Slide the Power switch to Off.

To change the signal modulation:

1. Activate the source if you want.

2. Select a modulation using the Modulation dial.

Power button

Data display

Status LED

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27 Identifying Fiber Faults Visually

The visual fault locator (VFL) helps you identify bends, faulty connectors, splices and other causes of signal loss.

From its dedicated port, the VFL emits a red signal which becomes visible at the location of a fault on the fiber. This signal can be continuous (CW, the default) or blinking (1 Hz).

If you switch to power meter or ORL meter, a VFL status pane is always displayed.

The VFL status is indicated with a LED in the status bar and on the Compact Modular Platform front panel.

WARNINGWhen the VFL is active, the VFL port emits visible laser radiation. Avoid exposure and do not stare directly into the beam. Ensure that any unused port is properly protected with a cap.

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Visual fault locator (VFL) port


Identifying Fiber Faults Visually

To activate the VFL and inspect a fiber:

1. Connect the fiber under test to the VFL port (see Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers on page 186).

2. From the main window, select the Source/VFL tab.

3. In the VFL pane, slide the Power switch to On.

4. To switch between blinking (1 Hz) and continuous (CW) signals, use the Modulation dial.

5. Without looking directly into the beam, examine the fiber. If light is coming out of the rubber jacket or on the side of the ferrule, the fiber is defective.

6. Deactivate the VFL by sliding the Power switch to Off.

Data display

Status LED

Power switch

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28 Communicating with Other Users

Your MultiTest Module offers two ways to communicate:

text messages

voice (via the optional talk set)

Sending and Receiving Text MessagesTo facilitate communication between opposite ends of a fiber (especially on models with no talk set), you may send text messages to compatible units (such as FOT-930, FTB-3930, FOT-920 or FTB-3920) through their FASTEST ports.

It is possible to send a predefined message or to write one of your own (maximum 30 characters). However, custom messages are not kept in memory.

IMPORTANTThe messaging feature does not work with the talk set port.

The messaging feature will not work if both units try to send a message at the same time.

You cannot use other features while sending or receiving a message.

You cannot cancel the operation.


Communicating with Other UsersSending and Receiving Text Messages

To send a text message:

1. Connect the units at each end of the same fiber via their FASTEST ports.

2. From the main window, select the Messages tab.

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List of sentand received

messages

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Communicating with Other UsersSending and Receiving Text Messages

3. Ensure that the port indicated (SM or MM) is the one you use. Otherwise, do as follows:

3a. In the function bar, press Setup, then select the FASTEST tab.

3b. Change the FASTEST port, then return to the Messages pane.

4. Scroll through the Predefined messages list and select a message.

OR

Enter a custom message in the New message text box.

5. Press the Send button next to your type of message (predefined or new).

After a few seconds, your message will automatically appear on the receiving unit (if its MultiTest Module application runs) and on the Message log pane. If an incompatible unit (or no unit) is detected at the other end, or if the FASTEST port of the receiving unit is in use, an error message will appear.

When you receive a message:

Your unit emits a short beep and displays the received message.

Press Close to clear the display and return to your previous function.

Press Reply to access the Messages tab and reply to the message. You will then need to return to your previous function manually. However, your last readings will be lost.

Note: If the message was written with a language not supported by your unit, you will see unreadable characters only.


Communicating with Other UsersCommunicating by Voice

Communicating by VoiceWith the optional talk set, you can establish full-duplex digital voice communication over a dedicated fiber, even while other functions are in use.

The talk set provides adjustable headset volume and uses a dedicated port. It is not compatible with the FOT-920 or FTB-3920 talk sets.

Note: You may use any commercially available headset equipped with a microphone. It is also compatible with the GP-92B speakerphone.

While communication is established, the actions and displays of each unit may differ as follows:

You can send or receive a call at any time, except during a FASTEST. To receive a call, you must be running the MultiTest Module application.

Once communication is established, it will be maintained even if you use the unit’s other test tools (including FASTEST).

If communication is lost, calling unit will automatically try to reestablish communication.

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To communicate between units:

Calling Unit Receiving Unit

1. Connect the calling unit to one end of the fiber via its talk set port, and plug in your headset.

1. Connect the receiving unit to the other end of the fiber via its talk set port, and plug in your headset.

2. From the main window, select the Messages tab.

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To adjust the headset volume (calling or receiving unit):

From the Talk set pane, move the Headset volume slider to the top (volume increase) or to the bottom (volume decrease).

You cannot adjust or mute the ring sound.

3. Press Talk. Your unit establishes communication with receiving unit.

If no compatible unit is detected at the other end, a message appears.

When receiving the call, the unit beeps. A phone icon appears to indicate that communication is established.

4. Talk to the receiving unit. 2. Simply answer (no need to press a key).

5. To end the communication, press End from the Talk set pane.

3. To end the communication, press End from the Talk set pane.

Calling Unit Receiving Unit

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29 Managing DataYou can copy, move, rename, delete files and folders directly on your unit.

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

Your unit is equipped with 2 types of USB ports:

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

USB secondary port (type B connector) to transfer data directly between your unit and a computer using a USB cable.

IMPORTANTTo avoid any problems and prevent malfunctioning, use only the USB drives approved by EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc..


Managing Data

To view the free disk space on your unit:

1. From Main Menu, press System Info.

2. Select Platform. The free disk space is displayed next to Available Flash items.

3. When you have finished, close System Information.

To manage files or folders on your unit only:

From Main Menu, select File Manager.

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Managing Data

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

1. Insert the CompactFlash card into the card reader until it stops. Ensure that the holes for the connector pins are towards the back of the card reader and that you see the label with a small arrow on top.

OR

Connect the USB memory drive to the USB host port.

2. From Main Menu, select File Manager. The list of available drives and folders should include the card (Storage Card) or the memory drive (Removable Disk). You can now manage your files and folders as you wish.

Note: If you do not see the card or the memory drive, simply close File Manager and reopen it.

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

CAUTIONApplying too much pressure on the card will cause irreparable damage to the card.

CAUTIONAlways use the card reader’s eject button to remove the card from your unit.


Managing Data

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

1. If it is not already done, install Microsoft ActiveSync. Follow the instructions given on the screen.

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

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

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

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

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Managing Data

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

OR

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

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

4. When you have finished, simply disconnect the USB cable.


30 Testing Network ConnectionsThe two most common basic tests widely used in networking are the ping test and the trace route test. With these tests, you can ensure that IP packets travel as expected from a local host to a remote host and vice versa.

Performing a Ping TestThe ping test is a basic test that measures the average time it takes for a packet to reach the remote host. With this test, you can quickly verify that the remote host functions properly.

The ping test has six common parameters:

The URL (IP address)

The number of packets to send

The packet size

The maximum time allowed for a packet to reach the remote host

The maximum number of hops allowed for reaching the remote host (TTL)

A flag to indicate whether a packet can be fragmented.

When the test is complete, you can export the results. You can later import the generated text file (tab-delimited) directly into Microsoft Excel.


Testing Network ConnectionsPerforming a Ping Test

To perform a ping test:

1. From ToolBox CE, select the Programs tab, then select IP Testing Tools.

2. From IP Testing Tools, select the Ping tab.

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Testing Network ConnectionsPerforming a Ping Test

3. Enter an URL or an IP address to reach. You can press the Default button to use the unit's default ping address. The default value cannot be configured.

4. Set the parameters:

Packet size

Number of packets to send

Timeout limit

TTL limit

Clear the Allow fragmentation check box if you prefer sending complete packets to the host.

5. Press the Start button.

You can stop a ping test at any time by pressing the Stop button.


Testing Network ConnectionsPerforming a Trace Route Test

Performing a Trace Route TestThe trace route test is used to evaluate the average number of nodes that are required to reach the final host. It is often use to troubleshoot networks (identify routing problems or accesses blocked by firewalls).

This trace route test utility enables you to:

Enter a remote host address.

Set the maximum time allowed for a packet to reach the remote host.

Set the maximum number of hops allowed for reaching the remote host (TTL).

Choose whether to resolve DNS for the IP address or not.

When the test is complete, you can export the results. You can later import the generated text file (tab-delimited) directly into Microsoft Excel.

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Testing Network ConnectionsPerforming a Trace Route Test

To perform a Trace Route test:

1. From IP Testing Tools, select the Trace Route tab.

2. Enter an URL or an IP address to reach. You can press the Default button to use the unit's default trace route address. The default value cannot be configured.

3. Set the other parameters:

Timeout limit

TTL limit

Select or clear the Resolve IP addresses check box if you want to get the host name for the corresponding IP address of nodes.

4. Press the Start button.

You can stop a trace route test at any time by pressing the Stop button.


Testing Network ConnectionsExporting the Results

Exporting the ResultsWhen a test is complete, you can export the results of the current test page. If you want to keep your results for future use, you must export them because result files cannot be opened directly from your unit.

Results are sent to a text file. Fields are separated by the “TAB” character to simplify the importation into a Microsoft Excel worksheet.

By default, the application suggests a file name:

For ping test:

Ping for [URL] on [YEAR]_[MONTH]_[DAY].txt

For trace route test:

Trace Route for [URL] on [YEAR]_[MONTH]_[DAY].txt

Where:

[URL] is the entered URL or IP address,

[YEAR] is the year of the test,

[MONTH] is the month of the test,

[DAY] is the day of the test.

Example:

For a ping test at www.yoursite.org made on January 3rd, 2006, the suggested filename would be:

Ping for www.yoursite.org on 2006_01_03.txt

To export results:

Press the Export button. If necessary, modify the suggested file name.

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31 MaintenanceTo help ensure long, trouble-free operation:

Always clean fiber-optic connectors before using them.

Keep the unit free of dust.

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

Store unit at room temperature in a clean and dry area. Keep the unit out of direct sunlight.

Avoid high humidity or significant temperature fluctuations.

Avoid unnecessary shocks and vibrations.

If any liquids are spilled on or into the unit, turn off the power immediately and let the unit dry completely.

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


MaintenanceCleaning EUI Connectors

Cleaning EUI ConnectorsRegular cleaning of EUI connectors will help maintain optimum performance. There is no need to disassemble the unit.

To clean EUI connectors:

1. Remove the EUI from the instrument to expose the connector baseplate and ferrule.

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

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

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

Push

Turn

Pull

34

5

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MaintenanceCleaning EUI Connectors

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

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.

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 (e.g., EXFO’s FOMS) or fiber inspection probe (e.g., EXFO’s FIP).

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

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

IMPORTANTIsopropyl 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.

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


MaintenanceCleaning Detector Ports

Cleaning Detector PortsRegular cleaning of detectors will help maintain measurement accuracy.

To clean detector ports:

1. Remove the protective cap and adapter (FOA) from the detector.

2. If the detector is dusty, blow dry with compressed air.

3. Being careful not to touch the soft end of the swab, moisten a supplied cleaning tip with only one drop of isopropyl alcohol.

4. While applying light pressure (to avoid breaking the detector window), gently rotate the cleaning tip on the detector window.

5. Repeat step 4 with a dry cleaning tip or blow dry with compressed air.

6. Discard the cleaning tips after one use.

IMPORTANTAlways cover detectors with protective caps when unit is not in use.

IMPORTANTAlcohol may leave traces if used abundantly. Do not use bottles that distribute too much alcohol at a time.

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MaintenanceRecharging the Main Battery

Recharging the Main BatteryThe main Lithium-Ion battery will last about 8 hours in normal operation. The clock battery is recharged automatically along with the main battery.

In ToolBox CE, the charge status is shown above Main Menu.

The unit also indicates the charge status with LED on its front panel (see LED Panel Description on page 4):

Status LED Battery Charge Status

Green Fully charged

Green, flashing Charging

Yellow Low

Red Error


MaintenanceRecharging the Main Battery

To recharge the main battery:

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

IMPORTANTBatteries are not charged at the factory. Fully charge them (about 3 hours) before using the unit for the first time.

The time required to charge batteries depends on various factors such as the type of modules currently in use and the ambient temperature.

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

Charge only with specified charger.

Depending on the way the unit is used, after a while, the charge status icon may no longer correspond to the actual power level of the battery (e.g., icon indicates that power level is sufficient, but unit turns off because battery is too weak). A complete calibration cycle will be necessary (see Recalibrating the Battery on page 255).

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MaintenanceRecalibrating the Battery

Recalibrating the BatteryDepending on the way the unit is used, after a while, the charge status icon may no longer correspond to the actual power level of the battery (e.g., icon indicates that power level is sufficient, but unit turns off because battery is too weak). A complete calibration cycle will be necessary.

You can perform a recalibration with the battery calibration utility:

The utility will charge the battery until it is full.

It will then discharge the battery completely.

You will have to let the battery recharge completely.

The whole calibration process can take several hours. You can stop the process at any time, but the battery will still need calibration.

When a calibration step is underway, the “LED” preceding the step name appears in yellow. When a step is complete, the “LED” turns to green.



To recalibrate the batteries:

1. From ToolBox CE, select File Manager, then select Program Files>Metrino>MiniShell>BatteryCalibration. Select Metrino.BatteryCalibration.Application to start the utility.

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2. Connect the AC adapter/charger to your unit.

3. Press the Start Calibration button (the Stop Calibration button will become available). Once calibration is complete, the Start Calibration button will become available again.


MaintenanceReplacing Battery

Replacing Battery

To replace the main battery:

1. Turn off the unit. If you let the unit in suspend mode (see Turning On or Off the Unit on page 25), you will have to change the main battery within 15 minutes. Otherwise, the unit will not be able to revert to your exact work environment (equivalent of a shutdown).

2. Open the battery compartment door located on the top of the unit (simply turn the cap counterclockwise and pull it away).

3. Replace battery.

4. Close the battery compartment door.

Note: You cannot replace the clock battery yourself.

WARNINGDo not throw battery into fire or water and do not short-circuit the battery’s electrical contacts. Do not disassemble.

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MaintenanceVerifying Your OTDR

Verifying Your OTDR You can perform several tests to ensure your OTDR operates within specifications.

Deviation is measured to determine if the OTDR needs recalibration.

Setting your OTDR to zero can only be done at EXFO. However, you can test your OTDR to verify the accuracy of its measurement origin.

To measure the deviation:

1. Connect at least 2 km of fiber to the OTDR output port.

2. Set the distance range at 2.5 km and acquisition time at 180 seconds.

3. Measure the deviation between a 10 ns pulse and a 30 ns pulse for each laser.

The deviation (Δ) should be between 2.0 dB and 3.0 dB. The deviation must be measured in the linear backscatter region. Do not measure the deviation near distinct reflections.

Performance will be affected if the observed deviation is beyond these limits. The OTDR will eventually require a factory calibration.

Note: This does not affect the precision of distance or loss measurements.

Δ

30 ns

10 ns



To evaluate the launch level:

1. Connect at least 2 km of fiber to the OTDR port.

Ensure that the OTDR port and connectors are properly cleaned and that the fiber settings are accurate (IOR, Helix factor and RBS).

Do not use a test jumper between the OTDR and the fiber under test to limit the number of connectors.

2. Set the distance range to the fiber length used for the evaluation, the pulse width to the shortest value available, and the acquisition time to 15 seconds.

3. Evaluate the launch level at 0 km by extrapolating the linear region of the curve.

The launch level should be located within the launch window (light green rectangle) appearing on the left side of the Y axis on the graph. If the launch level is below this window, clean the output connector again, retest the fiber and change the output connector if necessary. If the situation persists, you will observe a degradation in dynamic range. Return the OTDR to EXFO.

Note: This does not affect the precision of distance or loss measurements.

260 FTB-200


To verify the OTDR’s zero:

1. Connect a patchcord, approximately 10 m long, to the OTDR port. The exact length of the jumper must have been measured mechanically. Ideally, you should use an unjacketed patchcord.

Ensure that the OTDR port and connectors are correctly cleaned.

Ensure that the fiber settings are accurate (IOR, Helix factor and RBS).

2. Set the distance range to less than 2 km, the pulse width to 10 ns and the acquisition time to 30 s.

3. Take a distance measurement, positioning marker A as shown below.

Note: You can also press the Analyze button from the Event pane. The analysis should return the right position directly.

The position of the marker should be equal to the length of the jumper (± 2 m). For example, 8 to 12 m if the jumper is 10 m long.

If the distance error is beyond this limit, return the OTDR to EXFO.



To measure the event and attenuation dead zones:

1. Connect 2 km of fiber directly to the OTDR port. Use the shortest pulse width and distance range possible.


Ensure that the fiber settings are accurate (IOR, Helix factorand RBS).

2. Measure the length (E) of the first reflection at 1.5 dB from the maximum, as shown below. This is the event dead zone.

3. Measure the distance (A) between the beginning of the reflection and the point where the trace returns to the backscattering level with a 0.5 dB uncertainty, as shown below. Use A and B markers in the Measure pane. This is the attenuation dead zone.

If the results exceed the “maximum permitted specification” (refer to the calibration certificate that came with your product), performance will be affected. A damaged output connector may be the cause.

The reflectance of the output connector should be below –35 dB to attain an adequate dead zone. If reflectance is greater than –35 dB (e.g., –20), the incorrect dead zone will be the result of a bad connection. If this is the case, carefully clean the connector. If the problem persists, change the output connector. If the problem remains even after changing the output connector, return the OTDR to EXFO.

Note: This does not affect the precision of the distance or loss measurements.

1.5 dB

0.5 dBE

A

262 FTB-200


To measure the dynamic range:

1. Connect the OTDR as indicated below. Other configurations are possible, such as the one explained in the section on how to determine measurement range, if you use the shortest fiber length from that setup. In all cases, the fiber should have several sections longer than 2 km, with no loss greater than 8 dB and with an average attenuation not exceeding 1 dB/km.

Ensure the OTDR port and connectors are correctly cleaned, and that the fiber settings are accurate (IOR, Helix factor and RBS).

1 to M reels of fiber( Add as needed )

OTDR2km or more

Fiber End

2km or more



2. Set the distance range to 160 km (singlemode fiber), the pulse width to the longest value available and the acquisition time to 180 seconds.

Dynamic range is the difference between the launch level and the position on the curve where the peak-to-peak noise level is 1 dB, plus a correction factor relative to the noise amplitude (which is 5.2 dB).

If the result falls below the “minimum permitted specification” (refer to the calibration certificate that came with your product), you will observe a degradation of performance. It could be caused by a damaged output connector. If this is the case, clean the connector. If the problem persists, change the output connector. If the problem remains even after changing the output connector, return the OTDR to EXFO.

Note: This does not affect the precision of the distance or loss measurements.

1 dB

Dynamic range

264 FTB-200


To determine the measurement range (singlemode models only):

1. Connect the OTDR as indicated below. Other configurations are possible, but the fiber should have several sections longer than 2 km, with no loss greater than 8 dB and with the average attenuation not exceeding 1 dB/km. A variable attenuator will be used to adjust the loss in the span.

One or several non-reflective events with a nominal loss of 0.5 dB should be present. Join a series of fiber reels between the OTDR and the variable attenuator for a length of approximately 20 km. Join another series of reels to complete the fiber length needed for the test.


Make sure the fiber settings are accurate (IOR, Helix factor and RBS).

1 to M reels of fiber

( Add as needed )

OTDR2 km or more

Fiber End

MeasuredFiber Event

4 km min2 km or more

20 km

Variable attenuator



2. Set the distance range to 80 km (singlemode fiber), the pulse width to the longest value available and the acquisition time to 180 seconds.

The measurement range using the non-reflective event method represents the amount of attenuation (in dB) between the launch level and a 0.5 dB splice (which can be detected and measured to an accuracy of ± 0.1 dB). You can measure it by simply making an acquisition on a fiber with a known attenuation and a known 0.5 dB splice. Attenuation between the splice and the launch level is added until the analysis can no longer measure the splice to within ± 0.1 dB.

266 FTB-200

MaintenanceRecalibrating the Unit

Recalibrating the UnitManufacturing 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.

For FTB-200 Compact Modular Platform: under normal use, EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. recommends calibrating your

Compact Modular Platform every year

OTDR module every year

MultiTest module every three years.


MaintenanceRecycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only)

Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only)

Unless otherwise noted in a separate agreement between EXFO and a customer, distributor or commercial partner, EXFO will cover costs related to the collection, treatment, recovery and disposal of end-of-lifecycle waste generated by electronic equipment introduced after August 13, 2005 to an European Union member state with legislation regarding Directive 2002/96/EC.

Except for reasons of safety or environmental benefit, equipment manufactured by EXFO, under its brand name, is generally designed to facilitate dismantling and reclamation.

For complete recycling/disposal procedures and contact information, visit the EXFO Web site at www.exfo.com/recycle.

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).

268 FTB-200

http://www.exfo.com/recycle

32 TroubleshootingSolving Common Problems

Problem Cause Solution

Unit does not power up. Battery is discharged. Charge the battery.

Replace the battery with a fully charged one.

Connect the unit to an external power supply using the AC adapter/charger.

Unit is not connected to an external power supply.


External power supply is unplugged.

Make sure the external power supply is plugged in at both ends.

Battery door is not in place or is defective.

Replace the battery door properly.

Unit screenis dark.

Unit’s backlight is off. Press the backlight button.

Battery is discharged and unit has shut down.

Charge the battery.

Replace the battery with a fully charged one.


External keyboard is not working.

External keyboard has not been detected.

Unplug the keyboard and then plug it again.

Turn off the unit, plug in the keyboard, and turn on the unit.

Screen characters are dim.

Brightness is not set properly.

Adjust brightness.


TroubleshootingSolving Common Problems

One of the application is not responding.

Press and hold it down until the

unit beeps twice or the corresponding LED turns to red to shutdown the unit, then turn it on again to reset it.

Impossible to calibrate the touchscreen via the Stylus control panel.

Screen calibration is very poor.

Press and hold it down until the

unit beeps twice or the corresponding LED turns to red to shutdown the unit.

Press simultaneously and to display the calibration window.

Unit’s operating time is reduced.

Battery is probably worn out.

Replace the battery.

Battery was not fully charged.

Charge the battery.

Perform a complete battery calibration cyclea.

Battery indicator remains low after a full charge.

Battery is not completely charged.

Perform a complete battery calibration cyclea.

a. A complete battery calibration cycle consists of a full charge, immediately followed by a full discharge,then followed by a full charge.


270 FTB-200

TroubleshootingOTDR

OTDR


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

The fiber under test is too long.

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

In multimode fiber testing, launch level remains out of the launch window (light green rectangle) even after cleaning and verifying connection.

Wrong fiber type selected.

If you are testing C fiber, from the Auto or Advanced main window, select MM 50 μm.

If you are testing D fiber, from the Auto or Advanced main window, select MM 62.5 μm.


TroubleshootingMultiTest

MultiTest

Problem Possible Cause Solution

During offset nulling, you get the following message:

“Light detected during nulling.”

Light reaches at least one detector (power meter or FASTEST).

Ensure protective caps are tightly screwed on FASTEST and power meter ports and perform the nulling again.

Do not use rubber cover.

When using the power meter, you get Power Too Low or Power Too High.

Power of the signal received at the power meter port is outside its measurement range.

Check the connections. Ensure you use the proper fiber and connector type and that you use your power meter within specifications.

When measuring ORL, you get Too Much Power.

Measured reflected power is higher than emitted power. The ORL reference is incorrect.

Always perform ORL reference before each ORL measurement.

When measuring ORL, you get ORL exceeds.

Reflection is below sensitivity of ORL meter.

Perform an ORL zero measurement to increase the sensitivity of the detector.

Ensure mandrel is correct and that patchcord and connectors are in good condition.

272 FTB-200


Unable to establish FASTEST communication.

Remote unit’s FASTEST port is in use.

Remote unit is not compatible.

Selected port on master unit differs from actual port to which fiber is connected.

Compatibility set to FOT-930 / FTB-3930 but remote unit is not an FOT-930 or FTB-3930.

Wait until FASTEST completes, turn source and ORL meter off or exit Probe mode (FOT-930).

Make sure remote unit is an FOT-930, FTB-3930, FOT-920 or FTB-3920.

Set the port (SM or MM) correctly in Setup (FASTEST tab) on master unit.

Set the compatibility to FOT-920 / FTB-3920 in Setup (FasTesT tab) on master unit.

During FASTEST, you get a message saying that loopback reference was not performed.

Loopback reference was selected, but not performed (or reference is outdated).

Perform a loopback reference before FASTEST measurement.

ORL values are inaccurate for short fibers at 1310 nm during a FASTEST.

— Measure ORL manually.

Unable to communicate with an FOT-920 using the talk set.

Talk sets of the FOT-920 and FOT-930/FTB-3930 are not compatible.

Use text messaging instead.

Unable to establish connection with compatible talk set.

Probe mode is activated on remote unit (FOT-930 only).

Deactivate Probe mode.




Unable to send a text message.

Selected port differs from actual port to which fiber is connected.

Receiving unit’s port is in use.

Remote unit is not compatible.

On the sending unit, set the correct port (SM or MM) in Setup (FASTEST tab).

Wait until FASTEST completes, turn source and ORL meter off or exit Probe mode (FOT-930).

Make sure remote unit is an FOT-930, FTB-3930, FOT-920 or FTB-3920.

On Results tab, a box indicates “Invld” instead of a numerical value.

The application is unable to calculate the FASTEST ORL value (e.g., at 1310 nm for short fibers).

Perform the measurements again.

On Results tab, a box indicates “- - - -” instead of a numerical value.

The calculated value makes no sense (e.g., negative ORL value).

Perform the measurements again. Note that the calculated value is usually shown on the printed report.

When printing a report, rightmost columns are not printed.

The Fiber ID column is too wide. The width of this column is determined with the widest name.

Rename fiber IDs that have a long name.

When saving data in text formats, some ORL values are higher than the indicated sensitivity.

Saved text files containing symbols such as “>” may not open properly in some applications.

The actual measured value is used instead, even if it is not accurate.


274 FTB-200

TroubleshootingFinding Information on the EXFO Web Site

Finding Information on the EXFO Web SiteThe EXFO Web site provides answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding the use of your FTB-200 Compact Modular Platform.

To access FAQs:

1. Type http://www.exfo.com in your Internet browser.

2. Click on the Support tab.

3. Click on FAQs and follow the on-screen instructions. You will be given a list of questions pertaining to your subject.

The EXFO Web site also provides the product’s most recent technical specifications.


TroubleshootingContacting the Technical Support Group

Contacting the Technical Support GroupTo obtain after-sales service or technical support for this product, contact EXFO at one of the following numbers. The Technical Support Group is available to take your calls from Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Eastern Time in North America).

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.

TransportationMaintain 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:

Pack the unit in its original packing material when shipping.

Avoid high humidity or large temperature fluctuations.

Keep the unit out of direct sunlight.

Avoid unnecessary shock and vibration.

Technical Support Group400 Godin AvenueQuebec (Quebec) G1M 2K2CANADA

1 866 683-0155 (USA and Canada)Tel.: 1 418 683-5498Fax: 1 418 [email protected]

276 FTB-200

33 WarrantyGeneral Information

EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. (EXFO) warrants this equipment against defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year (FTB-200 Compact Modular Platform and OTDR module) and of three years (MultiTest module) from the date of original shipment. EXFO also warrants that this equipment will meet applicable specifications under normal use.

During the warranty period, EXFO will, at its discretion, repair, replace, or issue credit for any defective product, as well as verify and adjust the product free of charge should the equipment need to be repaired or if the original calibration is erroneous. If the equipment is sent back for verification of calibration during the warranty period and found to meet all published specifications, EXFO will charge standard calibration fees.

THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES EXPRESSED, IMPLIED, OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL EXFO BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.

IMPORTANTThe warranty can become null and void if:

unit has been tampered with, repaired, or worked upon by unauthorized individuals or non-EXFO personnel.

warranty sticker has been removed.

case screws, other than those specified in this guide, have been removed.

case has been opened, other than as explained in this guide.

unit serial number has been altered, erased, or removed.

unit has been misused, neglected, or damaged by accident.


WarrantyLiability

LiabilityEXFO shall not be liable for damages resulting from the use of the product, nor shall be responsible for any failure in the performance of other items to which the product is connected or the operation of any system of which the product may be a part.

EXFO shall not be liable for damages resulting from improper usage or unauthorized modification of the product, its accompanying accessories and software.

ExclusionsEXFO reserves the right to make changes in the design or construction of any of its products at any time without incurring obligation to make any changes whatsoever on units purchased. Accessories, including but not limited to fuses, pilot lamps, batteries and universal interfaces (EUI) used with EXFO products are not covered by this warranty.

This warranty excludes failure resulting from: improper use or installation, normal wear and tear, accident, abuse, neglect, fire, water, lightning or other acts of nature, causes external to the product or other factors beyond EXFO’s control.

CertificationEXFO certifies that this equipment met its published specifications at the time of shipment from the factory.

IMPORTANTEXFO will charge a fee for replacing optical connectors that were damaged due to misuse or bad cleaning.

278 FTB-200

WarrantyService and Repairs

Service and RepairsEXFO commits to providing product service and repair for five years following the date of purchase.

To send any equipment for service or repair:

1. Call one of EXFO’s authorized service centers (see EXFO Service Centers Worldwide on page 280). Support personnel will determine if the equipment requires service, repair, or calibration.

2. If equipment must be returned to EXFO or an authorized service center, support personnel will issue a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and provide an address for return.

3. If possible, back up your data before sending the unit for repair.

4. Pack the equipment in its original shipping material. Be sure to include a statement or report fully detailing the defect and the conditions under which it was observed.

5. Return the equipment, prepaid, to the address given to you by support personnel. Be sure to write the RMA number on the shipping slip. EXFO will refuse and return any package that does not bear an RMA number.

Note: A test setup fee will apply to any returned unit that, after test, is found to meet the applicable specifications.

After repair, the equipment will be returned with a repair report. If the equipment is not under warranty, you will be invoiced for the cost appearing on this report. EXFO will pay return-to-customer shipping costs for equipment under warranty. Shipping insurance is at your expense.

Routine recalibration is not included in any of the warranty plans. Since calibrations/verifications are not covered by the basic or extended warranties, you may elect to purchase FlexCare Calibration/Verification Packages for a definite period of time. Contact an authorized service center (see EXFO Service Centers Worldwide on page 280).


WarrantyEXFO Service Centers Worldwide

EXFO Service Centers WorldwideIf your product requires servicing, contact your nearest authorized service center.

EXFO Headquarters Service Center400 Godin AvenueQuebec (Quebec) G1M 2K2CANADA

1 866 683-0155 (USA and Canada)Tel.: 1 418 683-5498Fax: 1 418 [email protected]

EXFO Europe Service CenterLe Dynasteur10/12, rue Andras Beck92366 Meudon la Forêt CedexFRANCE

Tel.: +33.1.40.83.85.85Fax: [email protected]

EXFO China Service Center/Beijing OSICBeijing New Century HotelOffice Tower, Room 1754-1755No. 6 Southern Capital Gym RoadBeijing 100044P. R. CHINA

Tel.: +86 (10) 6849 2738Fax: +86 (10) 6849 [email protected]

280 FTB-200

A Technical Specifications

FTB-200 Compact Modular Platform

IMPORTANTThe following technical specifications can change without notice. The information presented in this section is provided as a reference only. To obtain this product’s most recent technical specifications, visit the EXFO Web site at www.exfo.com.

Display Touchscreen, color, 640 x 480 TFT 163 mm (6.4 in)Interfaces USB A main

USB B remoteRJ-45 LAN 10/100 Mb/sCompact Flash Fiber inspection probe connector port (video)

Storage Internal 80 MB (Flash)USB sticks 1 GB and 2 GB (optional)Compact Flash cards (optional)

Batteries 2 Rechargeable Li-Ion8 h of operation as per Bellcore TR-NWT-001138

Power Supply AC/DC adapter, input 100-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz, 2 A max, output: 24 VDC, 90 watts

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

TemperatureOperating —5 °C to 50 °C (23 °F to 122 °F)Storage 3 —40 °C to 70 °C (—40 °F to 158 °F)

Relative humidity 0 % to 95 % non-condensingSize (H x W x D) 322 mm x 197 mm x 109 mm (12 11/16 in x 7 3/4 in x 4 5/16 in)Weight 2.5 kg (5.4 lb)Vibration < 1.5 g at 10 Hz to 500 Hz (on three main axes)Mechanical shock < 760 mm on six sides and eight main edges (according to GR-196-CORE)

Notes1. All specifications valid at 23 °C (73 °F).2. Standard recharge time is 3 h. Recharge temperature: 0 °C to 35 °C (32 °F to 95 °F). 3. Not including internal batteries. Battery maximum storage temperature 60 °C (140 °F).

4. At 23 ºC ± 1 ºC, 1550 nm and FC connector. With modules in idle mode. Battery operated.5. Up to 5 dBm6. For ±0.05 dB, from 18 ºC to 28 ºC

ACCESSORIES

FP1 FP1 200X Fiber Inspection ProbeFP5 FP5 400X Fiber Inspection ProbeGP-10-069 Semi-rigid FTB-200 carrying caseGP-302 USB mouseGP-308 DC car adapter/inverterGP-2001 USB keyboardGP-2011 Compact Flash Ethernet WiFi cardGP-2012 Compact Flash Bluetooth cardGP-2013 Compact Flash RS-232 cardGP-2014 Compact Flash memory 1 GB card

GP-2015 Compact Flash memory 2 GB cardGP-2016 10 feet RJ-45 LAN cableGP-2017 Spare FTB-200 batteryGP-2019 USB micro drive 1 GBGP-2020 USB micro drive 2 GBGP-2021 Spare AC charger FTB-200GP-2023 Spare neck strapGP-2024 Spare belt strapGP-2025 Spare battery doorGP-2027 (A-E-I-J-S-U) Portable printer. Specify: A-North America, E-Europe, I-India,

J-Japan, S-Australia and New-Zealand, U-United-Kingdom

PM-200 Built-in Power Meter Specifications 4

Calibrated wavelengths (nm) 850, 1300, 1310, 1490, 1550, 1625, 1650Power range (dBm) 10 to —86 (InGaAs)

26 to —64 (GeX)Uncertainty (%) 5 ±5 % ±3 pW (InGaAs)

±5 % ±0.4 nW (GeX)Display resolution (dB) InGaAs 0.01 = max to — 76 dBm

0.1 = —76 dBm to —86 dBm1 = —86 dBm to min

GeX 0.01 = max to —54 dBm0.1 = —54 dBm to —64 dBm1 = —64 dBm to min

Automatic offset nulling range 6 Max to —63 dBm for InGaAsMax to —40 dBm for GeX

Tone detection (Hz) 270/1000/2000


Technical SpecificationsOTDR

OTDR

All specifications below apply to the FTB-7200D-12CD-23B multimode (MM)/singlemode (SM) model and the FTB-7200D-12CD multimode-only version.

Model Wavelength (nm) Dynamic range2, 3 (dB) Event dead zone4 (m) Attenuation dead zone4 (m)FTB-7200D-12CD-23B/FTB-7200D-12CD 850 ± 20/1300 ± 20 27/26 1/1 3/4

1310 ± 20/1550 ± 20 37/35 1/1 4.5/5

Distance range (km) Multimode: 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1.3, 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40Singlemode: 1.3, 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, 160, 260

Pulse width (ns) Multimode: 5, 10, 30, 100, 275, 1000Singlemode: 5, 10, 30, 100, 275, 1000, 2500, 10 000, 20 000

Launch conditions5 Class CPR 1 or 2 Linearity (dB/dB) ± 0.03 Loss threshold (dB) 0.01 Loss resolution (dB) 0.001 Sampling resolution (m) Multimode: 0.04 to 2.5

Singlemode: 0.04 to 5Sampling points Up to 128 000Distance uncertainty6 (m) ± (0.75 + 0.0025 % x distance)Measurement time User-defined (60 min maximum)Real-time refresh (s) Guaranteed: 0.4Stable source output power7 (dBm) −1.5 (1300 nm), −7 (1550 nm)Visual fault locator (optional) Laser, 650 nm ± 10 nm

CW, typical Pout in 62.5/125 μm: 3 dBm (2 mW)

Notes1. All specifications valid at 23 °C ± 2 °C (73.4 °F ± 3.6 °F) with an FC/PC connector, unless otherwise specified. 2. Typical dynamic range with longest pulse and three-minute averaging at SNR = 1.3. Multimode dynamic range is specified for 62.5 μm fiber; a 3 dB reduction is seen when testing 50 μm fiber.4. Typical dead zone for multimode reflectance below −35 dB and singlemode reflectance below −45 dB,

using a 5 ns pulse.5. Controlled launch conditions allow 50 μm and 62.5 μm multimode fiber testing.6. Does not include uncertainty due to fiber index and sampling resolution.7. Typical output power is given at 1300 nm for multimode output and 1550 nm for singlemode output.

282 FTB-200

Technical SpecificationsOTDR

Singlemode OTDR Module Specifications8

Model Wavelength Dynamic Dynamic Event Attenuation(nm) range at 10 μs9 (dB) range at 20 μs9 (dB) dead zone10 (m) dead zone10 (m)

FTB-7200D-XXX 1310 ± 20/1550 ± 20 35/34 37/35 1/1 4.5/5FTB-7300D-XXX 1310 ± 20/1490 ± 10/1550 ± 20/1625 ± 10 38/34/37/35 39/35/38/36 1/1/1/1 4.5/5.5/5/5FTB-74XXB-B 1310 ± 20/1410 ± 10/1550 ± 20/1625 ± 10 40/37/4012/38 41.5/38.5/40.512/39 3/3/3/3 10/10/15/16FTB-74234C 1310 ± 20/1550 ± 20/1625 ± 10 41/40/38 42.5/41.5/39.5 3/3/3 8/10/10FTB-75XXB-B11 1310 ± 20/1550 ± 20/1625 ± 10 43.5/43.513/41.5 45/4513/43 3/3/3 10/15/16FTB-7503B-B-ER11 1550 ± 20 44 45.5 3 15For complete details on all available configurations, refer to the Ordering Information section.

General Specifications

7200D/7300D series 7400B-B/ 7500B-B/74234C-B seriesDistance range (km) 1.25, 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, 160, 260 1.25, 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, 160, 260 Pulse width (ns) 5, 10, 30, 100, 275, 1000, 2500, 10, 30, 100, 275, 1000, 2500,

10 000, 20 000 10 000, 20 000Linearity (dB/dB) ± 0.03 ± 0.05Loss threshold (dB) 0.01 0.01Loss resolution (dB) 0.001 0.001Sampling resolution (m) 0.04 to 5 0.08 to 5Sampling points Up to 128 000 Up to 52 000Distance uncertainty14 (m) ± (0.75 + 0.0025 % x distance) ± (1 + 0.0025 % x distance)Measurement time User-defined (60 min maximum) User-defined (60 min maximum)Real-time refresh (s) Guaranteed: 0.4 1

Typical: 0.3Stable source output power15 (dBm) −8 (7200D), −4.5 (7300D) −5Visual fault locator (optional) Laser, 650 nm ± 10 nm Laser, 650 nm ± 10 nm

CW, typical Pout in 62.5/125 μm: 3 dBm (2 mW) CW, Pout maximum: 800 μW

Notes8. All specifications valid at 23 °C ± 2 °C (73.4 °F ± 3.6 °F) with an FC/PC connector,

unless otherwise specified.9. Typical dynamic range with a three-minute averaging at SNR = 1.10. Typical dead zone of singlemode modules for reflectance below −45 dB, using

a 10 ns pulse (5 ns pulse for 7200D and 7300D).11. Typical dynamic range on NZDS fiber with a three-minute average at SNR = 1.

12. Typical dynamic range at 1550 nm for the FTB-7423B-B configuration is 2 dB lower at 10 μs and 1 dB lower at 20 μs.

13. Typical dynamic range at 1550 nm for the FTB-7503B-B and FTB-7523B-B configuration is 2 dB lower.

14. Does not include uncertainty due to fiber index and sampling resolution.15. Typical output power value at 1550 nm.

All specifications below apply to the FTB-7200D-12CD-23B multimode (MM)/singlemode (SM) model and the FTB-7200D-12CD multimode-only version.

Model Wavelength (nm) Dynamic range2, 3 (dB) Event dead zone4 (m) Attenuation dead zone4 (m)FTB-7200D-12CD-23B/FTB-7200D-12CD 850 ± 20/1300 ± 20 27/26 1/1 3/4

1310 ± 20/1550 ± 20 37/35 1/1 4.5/5Distance range (km) Multimode: 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1.3, 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40

Singlemode: 1.3, 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, 160, 260Pulse width (ns) Multimode: 5, 10, 30, 100, 275, 1000

Singlemode: 5, 10, 30, 100, 275, 1000, 2500, 10 000, 20 000Launch conditions5 Class CPR 1 or 2 Linearity (dB/dB) ± 0.03 Loss threshold (dB) 0.01 Loss resolution (dB) 0.001 Sampling resolution (m) Multimode: 0.04 to 2.5

Singlemode: 0.04 to 5Sampling points Up to 128 000Distance uncertainty6 (m) ± (0.75 + 0.0025 % x distance)Measurement time User-defined (60 min maximum)Real-time refresh (s) Guaranteed: 0.4Stable source output power7 (dBm) −1.5 (1300 nm), −7 (1550 nm)Visual fault locator (optional) Laser, 650 nm ± 10 nm

CW, typical Pout in 62.5/125 μm: 3 dBm (2 mW)

Notes1. All specifications valid at 23 °C ± 2 °C (73.4 °F ± 3.6 °F) with an

FC/PC connector, unless otherwise specified. 2. Typical dynamic range with longest pulse and three-minute averaging

at SNR = 1.3. Multimode dynamic range is specified for 62.5 μm fiber; a 3 dB reduction

is seen when testing 50 μm fiber.4. Typical dead zone for multimode reflectance below −35 dB and

singlemode reflectance below −45 dB, using a 5 ns pulse.5. Controlled launch conditions allow 50 μm and 62.5 μm multimode

fiber testing.6. Does not include uncertainty due to fiber index and sampling resolution.7. Typical output power is given at 1300 nm for multimode output and

1550 nm for singlemode output.


Technical SpecificationsMultiTest

MultiTestSPECIFICATIONS1

Notes:

1. At 23 °C ± 1 °C and 1550 nm with FC connector and on batteries, unless otherwisespecified.

2. Resolution, uncertainty and linearity are functions of input power; uncertainty is valid at calibrationconditions.

3. Traceable to NIST; up to 20 dBm for GeX.

4. Power of > –45 dBm for Ge, > –30 dBm for GeX and > –57 dBm for InGaAs.

5. In High source mode.

6. As defined by Telcordia TR-TSY-000887, rms for lasers and at –3 dB for LEDs; typicalvalues for LEDs.

7. After a warmup time of 6 minutes, in CW source mode.

8. Typical value, at 1550 nm for SM and 850 nm for MM.

9. Typical value.

10. For fiber length 120 km.

11. For graded-index MM fibers; typical.

12. Without batteries.

External Power Meter FTB-3932 FTB-3932X FTB-3933Detector type Ge GeX InGaAsMeasurement range (dBm) 10 to –70 26 to –55 6 to –73Uncertainty2, 3 ± 5 % ± 0.1 nW ± 5 % ± 3 nW ± 5 % ± 0.05 nWWavelength range (nm) 800 to 1650 800 to 1650 800 to 1650Display resolution2 (dB) 0.01 0.01 0.01Calibrated wavelengths 40 42 40Recommended recalibration period (years) 3 3 3Automatic offset nulling4 Yes Yes YesMeasurement-distance units kilometers, meters, kilofeet, feet, miles

Sources Standard -4 -5 -12C (second port) -12D (second port)Wavelengths5 (nm) 1310 ± 20 1310 ± 20 1310 ± 20 850 ± 25 850 ± 25

1550 ± 20 1550 ± 20 1490 ± 10 1300 +50/–10 1300 +50/–10 1625 ± 10 1550 ± 20

Emitter type Laser Laser Laser Laser LED LEDMinimum output power5 (dBm) –1/–1 –1/–4/–7 –1/–7/–4 –30/–30 (50/125 μm) –24/–24 (62.5/125 μm)Spectral width6 (nm) 5/ 5 5/ 5/ 5 5/ 5/ 5 50/135 50/135Stability7 (8 hours) (dB) ± 0.05 ± 0.05 ± 0.05 ± 0.05 ± 0.05

FasTesT Standard -4 -5 -12C (second port) -12D (second port)Wavelengths (nm) 1310 1310 1310 850 850

1550 1550 1490 1300 1300 1625 1550

Loss range8 (dB) 60 56 56 40 46Loss precision9 (repeatability) (dB)

Side-by-side 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15Loopback 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25

Length measurement range (km) 200 200 200 5 5Length measurement uncertainty10

± (10 m + 1 % x length)

Dedicated ORL All SM WavelengthsORL range (APC / UPC) (dB) 65/55ORL uncertainty9 (dB) ± 0.5Resolution2 (dB) 0.01

General Specifications

Size (H x W x D) 9.6 cm x 2.5 cm x 26 cm (3 3/4 in x 1 in x 10 1/4 in)Weight 0.5 kg (1.1 lb)Temperature

operating 0 °C to 50 °C (32 °F to 122 °F)storage12 –40 °C to 70 °C (–40 °F to 158 °F)

Relative humidity 0 % to 95 % non-condensingWarranty (years) 3

Standard Accessories

User guide, Certificate of Calibration, connector adapter (FOA) according to chosen connector, mandrel and alcohol cleaning pads.

Talk SetEmitter type LaserWavelength (nm) 1550 ± 20 Dynamic range at 1550 nm (dB) 45Dynamic range MM11 (dB) 40

VFL9

Emitter type LaserWavelength (nm) 650Output power (dBm) 3

284 FTB-200

Index

Index

! ................................................................ 189***** indication ........................................ 152

AAC LED ...................................................... 4, 5AC requirements ......................................... 13accessing

power meter.......................................... 35source.................................................. 165

accuracy, trace ............................................ 84acquiring traces

Advanced mode............................. 73, 105Auto mode ............................................ 69Template mode...................................... 95

acquisitionautomatic, in Advanced mode............... 73Advanced mode..................................... 73Auto mode ............................................ 67changing resolution............................... 80custom time values.............................. 105date ............................................. 160, 161duration............................................... 128interrupting ..................................... 67, 74pulse width used ................................. 128setting analysis detection thresholds ... 136Template mode................................ 91, 95time, autorange..................................... 77wavelength used ................................. 128

active trace selection ................................. 122Advanced mode

acquiring traces ..................................... 73acquisition-specific fiber parameters ... 127setting the autorange acquisition time.. 77testing ................................................... 73

after-sales service ...................................... 276

Compact Modular Platform

analysisafter acquisition............................. 85, 139fiber span............................................. 141thresholds, detection ................... 129, 136thresholds, pass/fail ............................... 86

analyzing a trace. see analysis, after acquisitionanalyzing results........................................ 182application, starting .................................... 26applications, typical................................... 182Att. column in events table........................ 112attenuation

fiber section ........................................... 86LSA measurement method................... 150measurement....................................... 150reflectance ........................................... 152two-point measurement method......... 150

Auto modeacquiring traces ..................................... 69selecting test wavelength ................ 67, 73setting fiber parameters......................... 70testing ................................................... 67

automatic acquisition time. see autorange ac-quisition time

automatic zoom reset................................ 124autonaming

MultiTest...................................... 184, 187OTDR...................................................... 65

autorange acquisition time.......................... 77average loss in Trace Info. tab ................... 128average splice loss in Trace Info. tab ......... 128

Bbackreflection measurement ..................... 207basic OTDR theory ....................................... 60battery

charge status ....................................... 253clock .................................................. 7, 31LED ...................................................... 4, 5

285

Index

maintenance recommendations .......... 253recharging ........................................... 254replacing or removing ......................... 258

buttonsscroll, in the events table ..................... 109trace editing, in events table ............... 109

buttons, zoom. see controls, zoom

Ccable and fiber names ............................... 187calibrated wavelengths ............................. 181calibrating the touchscreen......................... 27calibration

certificate............................................. 267interval ................................................ 267

Canadian Standards Association (CSA).......... ixcancelling dark current effects ............ 37, 196capacitors.................................................... 12car outlet, charging battery with............... 254caution

of personal hazard................................... 8of product hazard.................................... 8

certification information ............................... ixchanging batteries .................................... 258circuit performance ............................. 37, 196cleaning

detector ports...................................... 252EUI connectors..................................... 250fiber ends ...................................... 64, 186front panel .......................................... 249

clearingpower meter display .............................. 45traces from the display (OTDR) ............ 123

clock battery. see batterycold shutdown ............................................ 25color of traces in display ........................... 110communication

talk set................................................. 234text messages ...................................... 231

component under test. see DUTconfiguring application ......................183–190

connector, threshold loss ............................ 86connectors, cleaning ................................. 250connectors, illustration of.................. 181–182controls, zoom .......................................... 125conventions, safety........................................ 8CR2032-type battery. see batteryCreate Ref./Template OTDR. seeTemplate modeCSA................................................................ixCumul. column in events table .................. 112cumulative loss.......................................... 112current, electrical......................................... 13customer service........................................ 279

Ddark current effects, eliminating.......... 37, 196data points .................................................. 84data, transferring ...................................... 182date of trace acquisition.................... 160, 161decrementation, file name .......................... 65default trace name ...................................... 65definition of the OTDR................................. 55deleting events .......................................... 134delimiting fiber span ................................. 114description

LED panel............................................. 4, 5ORL meter ............................................ 203power meter ........................................ 193

description of event types ......................... 169detailed report........................................... 162detecting module ........................................ 19detection, modulation............................... 181detector

see. power meterdetector port, cleaning.............................. 252detector types ........................................... 181device under test. see DUTdial

Distance ................................................. 80moving .................................................. 82Pulse ...................................................... 80Time....................................................... 80

286 FTB-200

Index

disappearing marker ................................. 144displaying

fiber sections ....................................... 114fiber span ............................................ 124injection level in events table............... 114pass/fail messages ................................. 87traces................................................... 121

distancebetween events ................................... 145equation ................................................ 60range ..................................................... 80

distance unit ............................................. 183dual-wavelength trace color in display ...... 110DUT ........................... 197, 200, 205, 212, 215

Eelectronic offsets, eliminating ............. 37, 196ending talk set communication ................. 236end-of-fiber

detection threshold ..................... 129, 136event ................................................... 169

equation of distance ................................... 60equipment returns .................................... 279establishing talk set communication ......... 234EUI

baseplate ....................................... 63, 185connector adapter ......................... 63, 185dust cap......................................... 63, 185

EUI connectors, cleaning ........................... 250event

deleting ............................................... 134description of types ............................. 169difference with fault .............................. 60distance measurement......................... 145effect of setting as span start/end . 88, 141fault notification.................................... 87insertion .............................................. 132location ....................................... 112, 113loss. see event lossmarking fault in events table ................. 87name, displaying ................................. 111

non-reflective, averaged loss................ 128number ................................................ 112reflectance ........................................... 112threshold, pass/fail................................. 86thresholds, pass/fail message................. 87undeletable.......................................... 134

event lossaverage, in Trace Info. tab ................... 128in events table ..................................... 112measurement....................................... 146total, in Trace Info. tab ........................ 128

event typesdescription........................................... 169continuous fiber................................... 170echo..................................................... 179end of analysis ..................................... 171end-of-fiber.......................................... 169fiber section ......................................... 176launch level.......................................... 175merged reflective event ....................... 177non-reflective event ............................. 172positive event....................................... 174reflective event..................................... 173reflective event (possible echo) ............ 180span end .............................................. 169span start............................................. 169

events tabledescription........................................... 109locating event ...................................... 113scroll buttons ....................................... 109trace editing buttons ........................... 109

exclamation mark ...................................... 189EXFO service centers .................................. 280EXFO universal interface. see EUIEXFO Web site ........................................... 275


Index

Ffailed events, flagging................................. 87FAQs.......................................................... 275FasTesT

thresholds............................................ 189wavelengths, selecting ........................ 212

faultdifference with event............................. 60marking in events table ......................... 87notification, for events .......................... 87

favorite wavelengths................................. 181features..................................................... 181fiber

attenuation.......................................... 112identifying by name....................... 65, 159identifying visually ............................... 165measuring optical power....................... 41section attenuation................................ 86sections display.................................... 114span length ......................................... 128type in Trace Info. tab.......................... 128see also fiber span ................................. 88

fiber and cable names ............................... 187fiber ends, cleaning............................. 64, 186fiber length measurement......... 181, 211, 221fiber parameters, setting

acquisition-specific (Advanced mode).. 127default ................................................... 78

fiber spananalysis ................................................ 141average loss in Trace Info. tab ............. 128average splice loss in Trace Info. tab.... 128delimitation ......................................... 114length in Trace Info. tab ................ 88, 128setting ................................................... 88total loss in Trace Info. tab .................. 128zooming (automatic) ........................... 124

fiber under test. see DUTfile name, in trace display ......................... 116flagging failed events.................................. 87forced selection of test wavelength ...... 70, 76

four-point measurement method vs. LSA .. 146Fresnel reflection ......................................... 61front panel, cleaning ................................. 249FTB-200 shutting down ............................... 25FTB-200 trace format................................. 155FTTx mode/wavelengths ............................ 212FTTx results ................................................ 182

GGeneral tab................................................ 116grid display................................................ 116

Hhard drive LED ........................................... 4, 5hazard, laser radiation............................. 9–11headset, using ........................................... 235helix factor

admissible values ................................... 78in Trace Info. tab.................................. 129modification ........................................ 127setting ................................................... 78

hiding traces.............................................. 121high-power source .................................... 181high-resolution feature................................ 84

Iidentification label..................................... 276identifying fiber under test........................ 165incrementation, file name ........................... 65indoor use ................................................... 12injection level, in events table.................... 114input current ............................................... 13inserting a module ...................................... 17insertion loss (IL). see lossinstalling unit .............................................. 12intermittent signal............................... 50, 230

288 FTB-200

Index

IORin Trace Info. tab ................................. 129modification ........................................ 127obtaining............................................... 78setting ................................................... 78

Llabel, identification ................................... 276laser safety information ...........................9–11laser safety LED ......................................... 4, 5laser source. see sourcelaser, using OTDR as source....................... 165launch level ............................................... 260least-square approximation. see LSALED panel description................................ 4, 5length unit ................................................ 183length, fiber .............................. 181, 211, 221light source. see sourcelist of favorite wavelengths ............... 181, 194Loc. in events table.................................... 112locating events .......................................... 113loopback referencing method ................... 214loss

average for fiber span.......................... 128average splice ...................................... 128connector .............................................. 86cumulative for fiber span..................... 128in events table ..................................... 112measurement....................................... 146measurement, positioning markers ..... 149non-reflective events average .............. 128splice ..................................................... 86

loss measurementdescription........................................... 181performing .......................................... 200reference ..................................... 197, 214saving results ....................................... 202thresholds............................................ 189see also power meter

LSA measurement methoddefinition ............................................. 150vs. four-point ....................................... 146vs. two-point........................................ 150

Mmail feature. see text messagesmaintenance

battery ................................................. 253detector ports ...................................... 252EUI connectors..................................... 250front panel........................................... 249general information ............................. 249

markerdisappearing on zoom ......................... 144too close to one another...................... 144

maximum input current............................... 13measurement

attenuation (two-point and LSA) ......... 150event distance...................................... 145event loss............................................. 146event RBS level ..................................... 145ORL ...................................................... 153units..................................................... 118with power meter .................................. 41

measurement units.................................... 183measuring

loss ...................................................... 200ORL ...................................................... 203power .................................................. 200

message feature. see text messagesmodulation

detection of ................................. 181, 201source .......................................... 181, 227VFL....................................................... 229

moduledetection ............................................... 19insertion................................................. 17removal.................................................. 17


Index

mounting EUI connector adapter ........ 63, 185multimode port................................. 211, 227multiple referencing.................................. 214multiwavelength trace file, displaying....... 121

Nnaming

reference trace....................................... 94trace automatically ................................ 65

naming results automatically ............ 184, 187non-reflective event, averaged loss ........... 128nulling offsets. see offset nullingnumber

in events table ..................................... 112of the event ......................................... 112

Ooffset nulling............................... 37, 181, 196opening trace file ...................................... 107operating light source ............................... 165optical detector performance.............. 37, 196optical return loss. see ORLoptical return loss. see ORL measurementoption used at start-up ............................... 32ORL measurement

description................................... 181, 203performing .......................................... 207thresholds............................................ 189

ORL zero measurement, performing ......... 205ORL, module required for calculations ...... 153OTDR

basic theory ........................................... 60definition............................................... 55internal components ............................. 61using as laser source............................ 165

OTDR softwarefile compatibility between versions...... 156launch level.......................................... 260

Pparameters

Advanced mode..................................... 77helix factor............................................. 78IOR......................................................... 78Rayleigh backscatter coefficient ............. 78Template mode...................................... 92trace display......................................... 116

pass/fail message display............................. 87pass/fail test

disabling ................................................ 87enabling................................................. 87when to perform ................................... 87

pass/fail thresholds. see thresholdsperforming

null measurement .......................... 37, 196optical power measurement .................. 41ORL measurement................................ 207ORL zero measurement........................ 205power or loss measurement................. 200

photodetector ............................................. 60PON testing ............................................... 182ports, illustration of........................... 181–182power LED................................................. 4, 5power measurement. see losspower meter

accessing ............................................... 35buttons description................................ 36clearing the display ................................ 45creating a report .................................... 46description................................... 181, 193detector types...................................... 181display ................................................. 193measurement......................................... 41modulated signal detection ................. 201printing a report .................................... 48recalling results...................................... 44reference values ..................................... 40results .................................................... 43

290 FTB-200

Index

setting thresholds.................................. 38thresholds.............................................. 38wavelength list .................................... 194

power reference, setting ........................... 197power source, AC........................................ 13precision, trace............................................ 84prefix, naming........................................... 187product

features ............................................... 181identification label............................... 276specifications ............................... 275, 281

protective cap ........................................... 252pulse

dial ........................................................ 80in Trace Info. tab ................................. 128setting width ......................................... 80

Rradiation hazard, laser..............................9–11RBS (Rayleigh backscatter)

description............................................. 61in Trace Info. tab ................................. 129modification ........................................ 127obtaining............................................... 78setting ................................................... 78

RBS level measurement event.................... 145re-analyzing a trace................................... 139recalibration.............................................. 267recalling results, power meter ..................... 44receiving text message .............................. 233red, value in .............................................. 189reference

mode ..................................................... 40values, setting........................................ 40

reference measurementloopback method ................................ 214multiple ............................................... 214power meter........................................ 197side-by-side method ............................ 214

reference tracenaming .................................................. 94parameters............................................. 92selection............................................... 101

reference, zero power.......................... 37, 196Refl. column in events table ...................... 112reflectance

attenuation .......................................... 152detection threshold...................... 129, 136of event ............................................... 112of non-reflective events........................ 152source of inaccurate measurements....... 79

removing a module ..................................... 17repairing unit............................................... 12replacing or removing battery ................... 258report

content ................................................ 162creating for power meter results............ 46of trace ................................................ 159printing.......................................... 48, 162

resetting fiber parameters, Auto mode ....... 70restrictions Ref. Creation/Template mode.... 92results

autonaming ......................................... 187ORL measurement................................ 209processing features .............................. 182saving .................................................. 184

return loss. see ORL measurementreturn merchandise authorization (RMA) .. 279ring volume ............................................... 236

Ssafety

caution..................................................... 8conventions ............................................. 8information........................................ 9–11warning ................................................... 8

same pulse and time for all wavelengths..... 81saving

format, FTB-200 ................................... 155power/loss results ................................ 202


Index

results automatically............................ 184trace in different formats..................... 155

scroll buttons ............................................ 109selecting

active trace .......................................... 122Automatic OTDR test wavelength.... 67, 73reference trace..................................... 101test wavelength, automatically........ 70, 76wavelength in Auto mode ............... 67, 73

sending text message................................ 232service and repairs..................................... 279service centers........................................... 280setting

fiber span .............................................. 88pass/fail thresholds ................................ 86power reference .................................. 197power thresholds (power meter) ........... 38reference values..................................... 40source wavelength............................... 228thresholds............................................ 189

shipping to EXFO ...................................... 279shutdown

cold vs. warm ........................................ 25FTB-200 ................................................. 25

side-by-side referencing method ............... 214signal, modulating ...... 50, 227, 228, 229, 230signal-to-noise ratio .................................... 81singlemode port................................ 211, 227software. see applicationsource

accessing ............................................. 165activating............................................. 228function overview................................ 165high-power.......................................... 181modulating signal................ 181, 227, 228multimode........................................... 181operating............................................. 165operation and display.......................... 227setting wavelength .............................. 228singlemode.......................................... 181status................................................... 227

source see also laser

span enddescription........................................... 169effect of setting on events table .... 88, 141

span position, updating ............................ 141span start

description........................................... 169effect of setting on events table .... 88, 141

specifications, product ...................... 275, 281splice loss

average, in Trace Info. tab ................... 128detection threshold...................... 129, 136threshold ............................................... 86

start-up option ............................................ 32stopping trace acquisition ..................... 67, 74storage requirements ................................ 249storing

changing default trace name ................. 65trace autonaming .................................. 65

suffix, naming ........................................... 187summarized report .................................... 162swapping traces ........................................ 142symbols, safety .............................................. 8system under test. see DUT

Ttalk set

compatibility........................................ 234description........................................... 234ending communication........................ 236establishing communication ................ 234placing a call ........................................ 235port...................................................... 234receiving a call ..................................... 236voice and ring volumes ........................ 236

technical specifications...................... 275, 281technical support....................................... 276temperature for storage ............................ 249Template mode

acquiring the reference trace ................. 94acquiring traces ..................................... 95applying parameters to other traces ...... 92

292 FTB-200

Index

description............................................. 91naming the reference trace.................... 94reference trace naming.......................... 94restrictions............................................. 92selecting reference trace...................... 101setting parameters................................. 92test settings used................................... 92testing ................................................... 91

Template OTDR. see Template modetest tools

light source.......................................... 227ORL meter............................................ 203power meter........................................ 193

test wavelength, forced selection.......... 70, 76test, settings used in Template mode.......... 92testing

Advanced mode..................................... 73Auto mode ............................................ 67Template mode...................................... 91

text messagescompatibility........................................ 231description................................... 182, 231modifying ............................................ 232receiving .............................................. 233sending................................................ 232

theory, OTDR............................................... 60thresholds ......................................... 182, 189

analysis detection ................................ 136connector loss ....................................... 86detection ............................................. 129end-of-fiber detection ......................... 136fault notification.................................... 87fiber section attenuation ....................... 86pass, fail, warning ................................. 87pass/fail message................................... 87power .................................................... 38reflectance detection ................... 129, 136setting pass/fail...................................... 86setting, power meter ............................. 38splice loss .............................................. 86splice loss detection..................... 129, 136trace analysis ......................................... 86

Time dialcustom-time mode............................... 105setting ................................................... 80

time in Trace Info. tab ............................... 128time, custom values................................... 105tools

talk set ................................................. 234visual fault locator ............................... 229see also test tools

total loss in Trace Info. tab ........................ 128touchscreen calibration ............................... 27trace

accuracy................................................. 84acquisition in Advanced mode............... 73acquisition in Auto mode....................... 69acquisition in Template mode................ 95analysis ................................................ 139analysis detection thresholds ............... 136autonaming ........................................... 65changing default name.......................... 65color in trace display............................ 110compatibility between ToolBox versions156editing buttons .................................... 109export formats ..................................... 155opening file.......................................... 107pass/fail analysis threshold..................... 86purpose of swapping ........................... 142re-analyzing ......................................... 139stopping the acquisition .................. 67, 74storage, in different formats................ 155swapping ............................................. 142

trace displaybehavior on zoom................................ 125clearing traces...................................... 123description........................................... 109displaying file name............................. 116parameters........................................... 116

trace formats, FTB-200 .............................. 155Trace Info. tab

average loss ......................................... 128average splice loss................................ 128backscatter .......................................... 129


Index

displaying traces.................................. 121end-of-fiber threshold ......................... 129fiber type used..................................... 128helix factor........................................... 129hiding traces........................................ 121IOR ...................................................... 129pulse.................................................... 128reflectance threshold ........................... 129span length ......................................... 128splice loss threshold............................. 129time ..................................................... 128total loss.............................................. 128wavelength.......................................... 128

trace reportcreating ............................................... 159printing ............................................... 162

transferring data ....................................... 182transportation requirements ............. 249, 276two-point

attenuation.......................................... 150measurement method vs. LSA ............. 150measurement method, definition ........ 150

typein events table ..................................... 112of event ............................................... 112

typical applications ................................... 182

Uundeletable events .................................... 134unit

installing................................................ 12repairing................................................ 12ventilation ............................................. 12

unit recalibration....................................... 267units of measurement ............................... 183updating span position ............................. 141using light source...................................... 165

Vventilation ................................................... 12VFL

1 Hz pulsed output .............................. 168continuous wave output...................... 168modulating signal .................. 50, 229, 230operation and display .................... 50, 230performing a test ........................... 50, 230status................................................... 229using.................................................... 165

visual fault locator. see VFLvoice volume ............................................. 236volumes (ring and voice) ........................... 236

Wwarm shutdown .......................................... 25warning thresholds...................................... 87warranty

certification.......................................... 278exclusions ............................................ 278general................................................. 277liability ................................................. 278null and void........................................ 277

wavelengthindication in Trace Info. tab ................. 128selecting, in Auto mode................... 67, 73

wavelengthscalibrated............................................. 181FasTesT................................................. 212list of favorite............................... 181, 194source .................................................. 228

Zzero measurement, ORL ............................ 205zero-power reference .......................... 37, 196zoom

controls................................................ 125resetting automatically ........................ 124window display.................................... 116

294 FTB-200

Printed in Canada (2006-05)

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P/N:1043882

CORPORATEHEADQUARTERS

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ftb-200 user guide

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