The increased use of the internet and an even higher demand for increased bandwidth has increased the need for fiber optic tools that can improve modern fiber optic installations in this age. It’s safe to say that fiber optic cables and their features are one of the key reasons the global telecommunication industry is thriving today. However, this wouldn’t be possible without fiber cable testing processes that take place to ensure optimized network performance.
There are several reasons fiber cable tools and their testing matter. From improving your system’s durability to reducing the need for constant upkeep and downtime, fiber cable testing plays a significant role in adopting system updates without network disruptions. However, the key is to identify the right fiber cable testing methods that offer reliability and time efficiency.
Here are three of the most common ways to test fiber cables.
Visible Light Source Testing
One of the first fiber cable testing techniques is the evaluation of visible light sources. It involves the use of light sources to determine fiber efficiency in network systems. Since fiber optic installations essentially function according to the electromagnetic spectrum based on lights, it can be challenging to test them without a common indicator.
With visible light source testing, you can use red light to test optical fiber installations and develop troubleshooting mechanisms to fix the identified faults in the network. The process is quick and easy, starting with using a flashlight to spot the red light that indicates the visual fault locations.
One Jumper Testing
The one-jumper method is also another way to test fiber cables—also referred to as testing through a power meter and light source. If you’re looking for precision and accuracy, this is the method you should go for. It’s because this process evaluates the fiber’s attenuation levels according to the insertion loss restrictions.
Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) Testing
Lastly, you can always resort to the OTDR method if you want to identify the fibers’ attenuation along with the length and activities taking place across their length. It’s one of the most effective ways to spot mechanical splices and stress points in fiber cables. The process involves the identification of different light pulses to identify faults in the cables.
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