OTDRs

AFL’s FlexScan is a pocket-sized, handheld OTDR that provides fast, accurate fiber-optic network characterization and fault location. Combining the company’s SmartAuto data acquisition capability with event analysis features and the intuitive LinkMap display, FlexScan enables technicians to quickly and easily troubleshoot faulty optical networks, or completely characterize newly installed networks. Available in either single or dual-wavelength OTDR configurations, the FlexScan OTDR includes an integrated VFL [visual fault locator], plus an optional loss test set (i.e. source and power meter), along with WiFi and Bluetooth communications. Designed for outside plant technicians, the rugged yet lightweight FlexScan boasts a large, backlit indoor/outdoor color display and operates up to 12 hours from its rechargeable battery. Results may be stored internally or to a USB memory stick. Internally stored results are easily uploaded via USB, Bluetooth or WiFi for archiving or report generation using the included TRM 2.0 Test Results Manager software.

AFL, www.AFLglobal.com

With 42 new and completely redesigned models with increased specifications, EXFO says its C-Series OTDR product line provides the highest requirements for characterizing fiber-optic cables and ensuring first-time-right deployments. Because the quality of an OTDR has a direct impact on network efficiency, the new product portfolio is optimized for unprecedented quality of results, innovative features, and new configurations that suit every application, adds the company. With a range of models for data centers, fronthaul/backhaul and C-RAN, FTTx/PON, and metro and long-haul field-test applications, the new OTDR series caters to the evolving commercial services needs of operators worldwide. Further, now available on virtually all EXFO OTDRs, the company’s intelligent Optical Link Mapper (iOLM) platform keeps evolving with high added-value capabilities, such as iMF, an automated MPO testing feature, and iLOOP, a fast and automated loopback test method that tests two fibers at once.

EXFO, Inc., www.exfo.com

Designed for the North American market, the AQ7280 Multitasking OTDR from Yokogawa can test four fibers at one time. It allows users to shoot a trace on one fiber, inspect the next connector with a probe, and use the power meter and the red VLS on a third and fourth fiber. The device includes a touchscreen for two-finger pinch zooming and an intuitive icon-based menu, akin to a smartphone or tablet. An operation algorithm combined with the latest Lithiumon battery technology offers 15 hours of battery life under the Telcordia GR-196-CORE standard. With the laser continuously running, the unit will operate for over 10 hours on a single charge, which is useful because OTDRs often are deployed in remote locations.

Yokogawa, www.us.yokogawa.com

The 930XC OTDR from Greenlee Communications can be used to measure the length or distance to a fault of a fiber-optic cable. Measurements are initiated by setting the desired parameters within the OTDR’s easy-to-navigate “flat” menu. Via single button operation, the unit then accurately annotates all measured events along the length of the fiber, detailing the nature of the event, insertion loss, reflectivity and location within a message box-without using cursors. Full cursor control can also be used if desired.The 930XC has a dynamic range up to 38dB and a one-meter dead zone to enable technicians to solve the most challenging faults. Further, the 930XC series of OTDRs are GR-196 compliant, which guarantees compliance to all specifications over the published operational temperature range, and also drop testing to two meters. All versions of the 930XC OTDR are supplied standard with OPM, stabilized laser source and VFL capabilities.

Greenlee Communications, www.greenleecommunications.com