Page 1 User Guide FTB-7000 Series OTDR for FTB-200 v2...
Page 2 EXFO 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.
Page 3: Table Of Contents
Starting Module Applications ....................19 Timer ............................20 4 Preparing Your OTDR for a Test ..............21 Installing the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI) .................21 Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers ................22 Naming Trace Files Automatically ..................24 Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check ..............28 Setting Macrobend Parameters .....................29...
Page 4 Enabling or Disabling File Name Confirmation ..............94 Selecting the Distance Units ....................96 Customizing the Acquisition Distance Range Values .............98 Customizing the Acquisition Time Values ................100 Enabling or Disabling the Touchscreen Keyboard ..............102 Displaying or Hiding the Optional Features ................103 FTB-7000 Series...
Page 5 Contents 10 Analyzing Traces and Events ..............105 Graph View .........................106 Linear View .........................108 Summary Table ........................110 Events Tab ...........................112 Measure Tab ........................116 Trace Info. Tab ........................116 Displaying the Graph in Full Screen ..................117 Selecting the Default View ....................119 Automatically Displaying the Event Table after Acquisitions ..........121 Automatically Zooming in on the Fiber Span ..............122 Using Zoom Controls ......................123 Setting Trace Display Parameters ..................126...
Page 6 Creating Reports .........................263 16 Maintenance ....................267 Cleaning EUI Connectors ....................268 Verifying Your OTDR ......................270 Recalibrating the Unit ......................278 Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only) ..........279 17 Troubleshooting ..................281 Contacting the Technical Support Group ................284 Transportation ........................285 FTB-7000 Series...
Page 7 18 Warranty ....................287 General Information ......................287 Liability ..........................288 Exclusions ...........................288 Certification ........................288 Service and Repairs ......................289 EXFO Service Centers Worldwide ..................290 A Technical Specifications ................291 B Description of Event Types ..............297 Span Start ..........................298 Span End ...........................298 Short Fibers ........................298 Continuous Fiber .......................299...
Page 8: Certification Information
FCC 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.
Page 9 2006/95/EC - The Low Voltage Directive 2004/108/EC - The EMC Directive 2006/66/EC - The Battery Directive 93/68/EEC - CE Marking And their amendments Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO Inc. Manufacturer’s Address: 400 Godin Avenue Quebec, Quebec Canada, G1M 2K2 (418) 683-0211 Equipment Type/Environment: Test &...
Page 10 I, the undersigned, hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the above Directive and Standards. Manufacturer Signature: Full Name: Stephen Bull, E. Eng Position: Vice-President Research and Development Address: 400 Godin Avenue, Quebec (Quebec), Canada, G1M 2K2 Date: January 09, 2009 FTB-7000 Series...
Page 11 2006/95/EC - The Low Voltage Directive 2004/108/EC - The EMC Directive 2006/66/EC - The Battery Directive 93/68/EEC - CE Marking And their amendments Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO Inc. Manufacturer’s Address: 400 Godin Avenue Quebec, Quebec Canada, G1M 2K2 (418) 683-0211 Equipment Type/Environment: Test &...
Page 12 I, the undersigned, hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the above Directive and Standards. Manufacturer Signature: Full Name: Stephen Bull, E. Eng Position: Vice-President Research and Development Address: 400 Godin Avenue, Quebec (Quebec), Canada, G1M 2K2 Date: January 09, 2009 FTB-7000 Series...
Page 13 2006/95/EC - The Low Voltage Directive 2004/108/EC - The EMC Directive 2006/66/EC - The Battery Directive 93/68/EEC - CE Marking And their amendments Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO Inc. Manufacturer’s Address: 400 Godin Avenue Quebec, Quebec Canada, G1M 2K2 (418) 683-0211 Equipment Type/Environment: Test &...
Page 15: Introducing The Optical Time Domain Reflectometer
Introducing the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer The Optical Time Domain Reflectometer allows you to characterize 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.
Page 16 Introducing the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer OTDR Visual fault locator (VFL) port (optional) Handle OTDR port (singlemode or multimode) Other models FTB-7000 Series...
Page 17: Main Features
Introducing the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer Main Features Main Features The OTDR: Offers impressive dynamic range with short dead zones. Performs quick acquisitions with low noise levels to enable accurate low-loss splice location. Acquires OTDR traces made of up to 256 000 points that provide a sampling resolution as fine as 4 cm.
Page 18: Trace Acquisition Modes
You can install the OTDR Viewer (available on the CD that came with your product) on a computer to view and analyze traces without having to use an FTB-200 v2 Compact Modular Platform and an OTDR. You can also access more features such as: customized printout FTB-7000 Series...
Page 19: Bidirectional Analysis Application
Introducing the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer Bidirectional Analysis Application batch printing conversion of traces to many formats such as Telcordia or ASCII Bidirectional Analysis Application You can improve the accuracy of your loss measurements with the bidirectional analysis application. This utility uses OTDR acquisitions from both ends of a fiber span (singlemode traces only) to average loss results for each event.
Page 20 Up to 40 dB dynamic range with 0.8 m event dead zone. Acquires up to 256 000 data points while sampling a single trace. Up to four test wavelengths (1310 nm, 1383 nm, 1550 nm,1625 nm) for CWDM and DWDM link characterization FTB-7000 Series...
Page 21 Introducing the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer Available OTDR Models OTDR Models Description Singlemode Event dead zone of 0.8 m and attenuation dead zone of 4 m for pinpoint event location FTB-7500E-XXXXB Up to 45 dB dynamic range (on NZDSF with a 20 μs pulse) High-launch power level minimizes noise effects on signal.
Page 22: Otdr Basic Principles
= speed of light in a vacuum (2.998 x 10 m/s) = 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) FTB-7000 Series...
Page 23 Introducing the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer OTDR 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.
Page 24: Conventions
AUTION Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in component damage. Do not proceed unless you understand and meet the required conditions. MPORTANT Refers to information about this product you should not overlook. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 25: Safety Information
Safety Information ARNING Do not install or terminate fibers while a light source is active. Never look directly into a live fiber and ensure that your eyes are protected at all times. ARNING Use of controls, adjustments and procedures for operation and maintenance other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure or impair the protection provided by this unit.
Page 26: Laser Safety Information (Models With Vfl)
Your instrument is a Class 3R laser product in compliance with standards IEC 60825-1 and 21 CFR 1040.10. It is potentially harmful in direct intrabeam viewing. The following label(s) indicate that the product contains a Class 3R source: Affixed to module’s side panel FTB-7000 Series...
Page 27: Getting Started With Your Otdr
Getting Started with Your OTDR Inserting and Removing Test Modules AUTION Never insert or remove a module while the FTB-200 v2 Compact Modular Platform is turned on. This will result in immediate and irreparable damage to both the module and unit. ARNING When the laser safety LED is flashing, at least one of your modules is emitting an optical signal.
Page 28 Getting Started with Your OTDR Inserting and Removing Test Modules To insert a module into the FTB-200 v2 Compact Modular Platform: 1. Turn off your unit. 2. Position the unit so that its front panel is facing you. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 29 Getting Started with Your OTDR Inserting and Removing Test Modules 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.
Page 30 This will secure the module into its “seated” position. Turn retaining screws clockwise Bottom panel When you turn on the unit, the startup sequence will automatically detect the module. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 31 Getting Started with Your OTDR Inserting and Removing Test Modules To remove a module from the FTB-200 v2 Compact Modular Platform: 1. Turn off your unit. 2. Position the unit so that the bottom panel is facing you. 3. Lift the mobile part of the retaining screw and use it to turn the retaining screw counterclockwise until it stops.
Page 32 5. Hold the module by its sides or by the handle (NOT by the connector) and pull it out. AUTION Pulling out a module by a connector could seriously damage both the module and connector. Always pull out a module by its casing. 6. Cover empty slots with the supplied protective covers. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 33: Starting Module Applications
Starting Module Applications Starting Module Applications Your modules can be configured and controlled from their dedicated applications in Compact ToolBox. To start a module application: 1. From Compact ToolBox, select the module to use. It will turn blue to indicate that it is highlighted. 2.
Page 34: Timer
The main window (shown below) contains all the commands required to control the OTDR: Data display Button bar Function tabs Timer Once the acquisition has begun, a timer is displayed on the right-hand side of the screen, indicating the remaining time until the next acquisition. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 35: Preparing Your Otdr For A Test
Preparing Your OTDR for a Test Installing 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.
Page 36: Cleaning And Connecting Optical Fibers
To ensure maximum power and to avoid erroneous readings: Always inspect fiber ends and make sure that they are clean as explained below before inserting them into the port. EXFO is not responsible for damage or errors caused by bad fiber cleaning or handling.
Page 37 Preparing Your OTDR for a Test Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers 3. 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.
Page 38: Naming Trace Files Automatically
The default file name is Unnamed.trc. By default, traces are saved in native (.trc) format, but you can configure your unit to save them in Bellcore (.sor) format (see Selecting the Default File Format on page 93). FTB-7000 Series...
Page 39 Preparing Your OTDR for a Test Naming Trace Files Automatically Note: If you select the Bellcore (.sor) format, the unit will create one file per wavelength (for example, TRACE001_1310.sor and TRACE001_1550.sor, if you included both 1310 nm and 1550 nm in your test). The native format contains all wavelengths in a single file.
Page 40 6. Change the criteria as needed, then press OK to confirm your new settings and return to the Default Trace Information window. Value at which the autonumbering sequence starts Number of digits The variable part will composing the increase or decrease variable part depending on your choice FTB-7000 Series...
Page 41 Preparing Your OTDR for a Test Naming Trace Files Automatically 7. Press File Autonaming to set up the trace file name options. 8. In the File Name window, select the desired components to include in the file name. You can change the order of apparition with the up and down arrow buttons.
Page 42: Enabling Or Disabling The First Connector Check
To enable or disable the first connector check: 1. From the Main Menu, press OTDR Setup then press the General tab. 2. To enable the first connector check, select the First connector check box. To disable it, clear the box. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 43: Setting Macrobend Parameters
Preparing Your OTDR for a Test Setting Macrobend Parameters Setting Macrobend Parameters Note: This function is available both in Advanced and Auto modes. Your unit can locate macrobends by comparing the loss values measured at a certain location, for a certain wavelength (for example, 1310 nm) with the loss values measured at the corresponding location, but for a greater wavelength (for example, 1550 nm).
Page 44 Only the combinations of wavelengths your module can support will be available. For more significant results, EXFO recommends to always select the combination of wavelengths including the smallest possible wavelength and the greatest wavelength (for example, if your module supports 1310 nm, 1550 nm, and 1625 nm, you would select the 1310 nm/1625 nm combination).
Page 45: Launch Conditions For Multimode Measurements
Preparing Your OTDR for a Test Launch Conditions for Multimode Measurements Launch Conditions for Multimode Measurements In a multimode fiber network, the attenuation of a signal is highly dependent on the mode distribution (or launch condition) of the source that emits this signal. In the same way, the attenuation reading performed by any test instrument will also depend on the mode distribution of its light source.
Page 46 FOTP34, Method A2. MPORTANT If you test with 50 μm fibers, EXFO recommends that you use a mode filter (mandrel-wrap). Otherwise, you may obtain results with a 0.1 to 0.3 dB excess loss. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 47: Testing Fibers In Auto Mode
Testing Fibers in Auto Mode 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, singlemode live, or multimode) for models supporting these fiber types Autorange acquisition time IOR (group index), RBS coefficient and helix factor...
Page 48 The application will also display status messages if you have selected to display pass/fail messages (see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 53). 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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 49 Testing Fibers in Auto Mode To acquire traces in Auto mode: 1. Clean the connectors properly. 2. Connect a fiber to the OTDR port. If your unit is equipped with two OTDR ports, ensure that you connect the fiber to the appropriate port (singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode), depending on the wavelength you intend to use.
Page 50 Location button. 9b. If necessary, specify a file name. MPORTANT If you specify the name of an existing trace, the original file will be overwritten and only the new file will be available. 10. Press OK to confirm. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 51: Testing Fibers In Advanced Mode
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.
Page 52 For more information, see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 53. 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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 53 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode To acquire traces: 1. Clean the connectors properly (see Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers on page 22). 2. Connect a fiber to the OTDR port. If your unit is equipped with two OTDR ports, ensure that you connect the fiber to the appropriate port (singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode), depending on the wavelength you intend to use.
Page 54 The application will use a file name based on the autonaming parameters you defined (see Naming Trace Files Automatically on page 24). This file name appears at the top of the graph and at the top of the linear view table. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 55 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Note: The application will only display the Save File dialog box if you have activated the feature to always be prompted when you save a file. From this dialog box, you can change the location, the file name and the file format.
Page 56: Setting 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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 57: Setting The Ior, Rbs Coefficient, And Helix Factor
Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Setting the IOR, RBS Coefficient, and Helix Factor Setting the IOR, RBS Coefficient, and Helix Factor Note: This function is available both in Advanced and Auto 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.
Page 58 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. 5. Press Exit OTDR Setup. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 59: Setting Distance Range, Pulse Width, And Acquisition Time
Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Setting 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 Distance Units on page 96).
Page 60 You can use the same distance range, pulse width and acquisition time parameters for testing at all wavelengths on a multiwavelength OTDR. MPORTANT To test using the high-resolution feature, the acquisition time must be of at least 15 seconds. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 61 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Setting Distance Range, Pulse Width, and Acquisition Time 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.
Page 62 1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup, then go to the Acquisition tab. 2. Select the Apply settings to all wavelengths box. The modifications you make to pulse, time, and range settings will now be applied to all wavelengths. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 63: Enabling The High-Resolution Feature
Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Enabling the High-Resolution Feature Enabling the High-Resolution Feature If your OTDR model is FTB-7000D or later, You can select the high-resolution feature 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.
Page 64 Note: If your OTDR supports singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode wavelengths, the high-resolution feature will be activated either for the singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode wavelengths, depending on the selected fiber type. 4. Press Exit OTDR Setup to return to the main window. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 65: Enabling Or Disabling Analysis After Acquisition
Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Enabling 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.
Page 66 Automatically analyze data after acquisition box. If you clear the check box, the trace will be acquired 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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 67: Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds
Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds You can activate and set Pass/Fail threshold parameters for your tests. You can set thresholds for splice loss, connector loss, reflectance, fiber section attenuation, span loss, span length, and span ORL. You can apply the same pass/fail thresholds to all test wavelengths or apply them separately to each one.
Page 68 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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 69 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds To set pass/fail thresholds: 1. From the button bar, select OTDR Setup, then select the Event Table tab. 2. From the Wavelength list, select the wavelength for which you want to set thresholds. Value associated Threshold to set with the...
Page 70 Note: You can use the Select All button to quickly select all boxes at the same time. 5c. Press OK to confirm you selection. 6. Press Exit OTDR Setup to return to the main window. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 71 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds To revert to default threshold values and to delete custom wavelengths: 1. From the button bar, select OTDR Setup, then select the Event Table tab. 2. Press the Revert to Factory Settings button. 3.
Page 72: Setting A Default Span Start And Span End
Note: You can also change the fiber span of a single trace after the analysis and reanalyze the trace (see Analyzing or Reanalyzing a Trace on page 151). However, if you want to keep working with the original parameters, you must reenter them. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 73 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Setting a Default Span Start and Span End To change the default span start and span end for traces: 1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup. 2. From the OTDR Setup window, go to the Analysis tab. 3.
Page 75: Testing Fibers In Template Mode
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 Principle Cables contain numerous fibers. Theoretically, on all these fibers, you will find the same events at the same location (due to connectors, splices, etc.).
Page 76: Restrictions Of Template Mode
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: FTB-7000 Series...
Page 77 Testing Fibers in Template Mode Restrictions of Template Mode Item To be valid... Pulse width Must be: Reference trace pulse Reference trace pulse ⎛ ⎞ ≤ -------------------------------------------------- - Current trace pulse Current trace pulse ⎝ ⎠ ≤ × Current trace pulse Reference trace pulse Current trace pulse Reference trace pulse...
Page 78: Acquiring The Reference Trace
4. If necessary, define the span start and end (see Analyzing the Fiber on a Specific Fiber Span on page 153). 5. Once the analysis is complete, save the trace by pressing Quick Save in the button bar or from the keypad. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 79 Testing Fibers in Template Mode Acquiring the Reference Trace The application will use a file name based on the autonaming parameters you defined (see Naming Trace Files Automatically on page 24). This file name appears at the top of the graph and at the top of the linear view table.
Page 80: Acquiring Traces In Template Mode
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 74). By default, all wavelengths are selected, but you can adjust the selection to your needs. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 81 Testing Fibers in Template Mode Acquiring Traces in Template Mode 3. Set test parameters. 3a. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup. 3b. Select the Create Ref./Template tab. 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 stop the process manually) to continue compiling events.
Page 82 If the first connector check feature is enabled, a message will appear if there is a problem with the injection level (see Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check on page 28). All traces will automatically be acquired and analyzed, and the events will be identified. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 83 Testing Fibers in Template Mode Acquiring Traces in Template Mode 4. If applicable, the application will display the number of new events detected for each wavelength. 4a. Press OK to close the dialog box. Note: You can only add events to the reference trace during reference update. Note: If you chose the Keep all events feature for the acquisitions that will be performed after the update, you may find it useful to add newly detected events to obtain a more accurate reference trace.
Page 84 Note: If you select the Analyze Reference Events Only feature (from OTDR setup), the Add to Ref. and Delete buttons are unavailable. Events that are not on the reference trace, but that are detected on the acquired trace, are deleted. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 85 Testing Fibers in Template Mode Acquiring Traces in Template Mode 5a. Once the analysis is complete, save the trace by pressing Quick Save in the button bar or from the keypad. The application will use a file name based on the autonaming parameters you defined (see Naming Trace Files Automatically on page 24).
Page 86 (see Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check on page 28). All traces will automatically be acquired and analyzed, and the events will be identified. 6b. The application will prompt you if new events are found. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 87 Testing Fibers in Template Mode Acquiring Traces in Template Mode 6c. Once the analysis is complete, save the trace by pressing Quick Save in the button bar or from the keypad. The application will use a file name based on the autonaming parameters you defined (see Naming Trace Files Automatically on page 24).
Page 88: Selecting 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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 89: Testing Fibers In Fault Finder Mode
Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode The application offers you a special testing feature to rapidly locate fiber ends. It also displays the length of the fiber under test. This could be useful if you want to perform a quick test without having to set all the acquisition parameters.
Page 90 If the first connector check feature is enabled, a message will appear if there is a problem with the injection level (see Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check for Fault Finder on page 85). FTB-7000 Series...
Page 91 Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Acquiring Traces in Fault Finder Mode 5. Once the analysis is complete, save the trace by pressing Quick Save in the button bar or from the keypad. The application will use a file name based on the autonaming parameters you defined (see Naming Fault Finder Files Automatically on page 78).
Page 92: Naming Fault Finder Files Automatically
By default, traces are saved in native (.trc) format, but you can configure your unit to save them in Bellcore (.sor) format (see Selecting the Default File Format for the Fault Finder Traces on page 80). FTB-7000 Series...
Page 93 Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Naming Fault Finder Files Automatically To configure the automatic file naming: 1. From the button bar, press Setup. 2. From the Setup window, select the General tab then press the File Autonaming button. 3. From the Autonaming Setup dialog box, set the parameters. Static part Variable part (incremented) The value appearing in this box will be used in...
Page 94: Selecting The Default File Format For The Fault Finder Traces
Note: The application will only display this dialog box if you have activated the feature to always be prompted when you save a file (see Enabling or Disabling the Confirmation of Fault Finder File Name on page 82) and if you did not disable the storage features. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 95 Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Selecting the Default File Format for the Fault Finder Traces To select the default file format: 1. From the button bar, press Quick Save. 2. From the Save File dialog box, select the desired format. 3.
Page 96: Enabling Or Disabling The Confirmation Of Fault Finder File Name
The application will use a file name based on autonaming settings (see Naming Fault Finder Files Automatically on page 78). If you prefer to hide the Quick Save button, see Enabling or Disabling the Storage Feature on page 84. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 97 Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Enabling or Disabling the Confirmation of Fault Finder File Name To enable or disable file name confirmation: 1. From the button bar, press Setup, then go to the General tab. 2. If you want to confirm file name each time you press Quick Save, select the Always show confirmation window on save check box.
Page 98: Enabling Or Disabling The Storage Feature
2. If you want to hide the Quick Save button, select the Disable storage features check box. If you want to display the button, clear the check box. 3. Press Exit Setup to return to the main window. The changes are applied automatically. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 99: Enabling Or Disabling The First Connector Check For Fault Finder
Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check for Fault Finder Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check for Fault Finder The first connector check feature is used to verify that the fibers are properly connected to the OTDR. It verifies the injection level and displays a message when a unusually high loss occurs at the first connection, which could indicate that no fiber is connected to the OTDR port.
Page 100 1. From the button bar, press Setup then select the General tab. 2. To enable the first connector check, select the First connector check check box. To disable it, clear the check box. 3. Press Exit Setup to return to the main window. The changes are applied automatically. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 101: Enabling Or Disabling The Touchscreen Keyboard
Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Enabling or Disabling the Touchscreen Keyboard Enabling or Disabling the Touchscreen Keyboard With the touchscreen keyboard, you can enter data without having to use an external keyboard. By default, this feature is enabled. When you select a text or number box, the touchscreen keyboard or keypad appears automatically.
Page 102: Setting Trace Display Parameters
By default, the file name is displayed. File name Grid Note: The trace display settings used in Fault Finder mode are independent from the ones used in the other OTDR modes (Auto, Advanced and Template). FTB-7000 Series...
Page 103 Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Setting Trace Display Parameters To set the trace display parameters: 1. From the button bar, press the Setup button, then select the General tab. 2. Select the check boxes corresponding to the item you want to display on the graph.
Page 104: Selecting The Distance Units
You can select the distance units that will be used in the application. The default distance units are the kilometers. Units used Note: The distance units used in Fault Finder mode are independent from the ones used in the other OTDR modes (Auto, Advanced and Template). FTB-7000 Series...
Page 105 Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Selecting the Distance Units To select the distance units for your display: 1. From the button bar, select Setup. 2. From the Setup window, select the General tab. 3. From the Distance units list, select the item corresponding to the desired units.
Page 107: Customizing Your Otdr
Customizing Your OTDR You can customize the appearance and behavior of your OTDR application. Selecting the Default File Format You can define the default file format the application will use when you save your traces. By default, traces are saved in native (.trc) format, but you can configure your unit to save them in Bellcore (.sor) format.
Page 108: Enabling Or Disabling File Name Confirmation
The application will use a file name based on autonaming settings (see Naming Trace Files Automatically on page 24). Note: The file name confirmation parameter used in the Auto, Advanced, and Template modes is independent from the one used in the Fault Finder mode. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 109 Customizing Your OTDR Enabling or Disabling File Name Confirmation To enable or disable file name confirmation: 1. From the Main Menu window, press OTDR Setup, then select the General tab. 2. If you want to confirm file name each time you press Quick Save, select the Always show confirmation window on save check box.
Page 110: Selecting The Distance Units
Note: The attenuation of fiber sections is always presented in dBs per kilometer even if the distance units you selected are not the kilometers. This follows the standards of the fiber-optic industry that provides the attenuation values in dBs per kilometer. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 111 Customizing Your OTDR Selecting the Distance Units To select the distance units for your display: 1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup. 2. From the OTDR Setup window, select the General tab. 3. From the Distance units list, select the item corresponding to the desired distance units.
Page 112: Customizing The Acquisition Distance Range Values
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 45. Note: The Auto value cannot be modified. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 113 Customizing Your OTDR Customizing 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 Custom Acquisition Parameters button. 3. If your OTDR supports singlemode, multimode or filtered wavelengths, specify the desired fiber type.
Page 114: Customizing The Acquisition Time Values
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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 115 Customizing Your OTDR Customizing the Acquisition Time Values To customize the acquisition time values: 1. From the button bar, select OTDR Setup, then the Acquisition tab. 2. Press the Custom Acquisition Parameters button. 3. From the Time list, select the value you want to modify (the value will become highlighted), then press the Edit button.
Page 116: Enabling Or Disabling The Touchscreen Keyboard
2. If you want to display the touchscreen keyboard, select the Use touchscreen keyboard box. If you prefer to hide the keyboard, clear the check box. 3. Press Exit OTDR Setup to return to the Main Menu window.The changes are applied automatically. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 117: Displaying Or Hiding The Optional Features
Customizing Your OTDR Displaying or Hiding the Optional Features Displaying or Hiding the Optional Features If you have not purchased the optional software package, since you cannot use the optional features, you may prefer to hide them (macrobend detection, linear view). Note: You cannot hide the optional features if you purchased the software package.
Page 119: 10 Analyzing Traces And Events
10 Analyzing Traces and Events Once 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.
Page 120: Graph View
The contents of the graph area changes according to the selected tab. The blue rectangle on the Y axis (relative powers) indicates the proper injection level range for the defined test pulse. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 121 Analyzing Traces and Events Graph View You can change trace display parameters (such as the grid and zoom window display). For more information, see Setting Trace Display Parameters on page 126. You can view all of the traces, in turn, in both the Trace Info pane and the trace display with the navigation buttons.
Page 122: Linear View
When you select an event or a fiber section in the events table, the linear view automatically scrolls to display the element. You can also select a bubble or an horizontal line and the corresponding item will be selected in the events table. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 123 Analyzing Traces and Events Linear View You can view, in turn, the reference trace and the main trace using the Next Trace button. If you press a bubble or an horizontal line and hold for a few seconds, the application will display a tooltip identifying the item (for example, Reflective fault).
Page 124: Summary Table
“fail”. In the graph view, the events tab is automatically selected, allowing you to switch to another event either manually or using the knob. The summary table shows only the information of the main trace, not the information of the reference trace. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 125 Analyzing Traces and Events Summary Table Since the summary table shows the information for all the wavelengths of the main trace only, the Next Trace button is not available. The summary table cannot be displayed when the events table is empty or if the trace contains only a span start.
Page 126: Events Tab
Using Markers on page 165. 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 element in the events table or on the graph. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 127 Analyzing Traces and Events Events Tab 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.
Page 128 Trace Info. tab. If you want to modify events or fiber sections, see Modifying Events on page 138, Inserting Events on page 142, and Changing the Attenuation of Fiber Sections on page 146. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 129 Analyzing Traces and Events Events Tab To quickly locate an event in the events table: 1. Ensure that the button is selected in the zoom button bar. 2. Select the event on the trace. The list scrolls automatically to the event you selected. Event no.
Page 130: Measure Tab
The information about all the trace files (including the reference) can be displayed. 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 130. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 131: Displaying The Graph In Full Screen
Analyzing Traces and Events Displaying the Graph in Full Screen Displaying the Graph in Full Screen You can display the graph in full screen at any time, even when an acquisition is underway. The graph will keep the same display options as in normal view (grid, file name, zoom window, inverted colors).
Page 132 To display the graph in full screen: From the main window, press the button. The graph is now displayed in full-screen mode. To return to normal view To switch to another wavelength Acquisition parameters for the next acquisition FTB-7000 Series...
Page 133: Selecting The Default View
Analyzing Traces and Events Selecting the Default View Selecting the Default View You can select which view will be displayed by default once all the acquisitions are performed (at all the selected wavelengths) and the analysis of the last wavelength is complete. The table below indicates in which OTDR modes (Auto, Advanced, Template) a particular view can be displayed.
Page 134 1. From the button bar, select OTDR Setup, then the General tab. 2. Under Default view after acquisition, select the desired view. 3. Press Exit OTDR Setup to return to main window. The application will automatically switch to the selected view when you perform the next acquisitions. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 135: Automatically Displaying The Event Table After Acquisitions
Analyzing Traces and Events Automatically Displaying the Event Table after Acquisitions Automatically Displaying the Event Table after Acquisitions You may want the application to automatically switch to the event table once all acquisitions are complete. This could be particularly useful when you work in full-screen mode (see Displaying the Graph in Full Screen on page 117) if you want to view the event table without having to go back in normal view mode.
Page 136: Automatically Zooming In On The Fiber Span
Even if the application automatically zooms in on the fiber span, you can adjust the zoom manually. You can even zoom in on events located outside the fiber span. For more information on how to use the zoom controls see Using Zoom Controls on page 123. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 137: Using Zoom Controls
Analyzing Traces and Events Using Zoom Controls Using Zoom Controls Use the zoom controls to change the scale of the trace display. You can zoom in on or out of the graph using the corresponding buttons or let the application automatically adjust the zoom on the currently selected event from the events table (only available when the events window is displayed).
Page 138 Press and hold this button to select the zooming direction in the menu. Then, define the zoom area with the stylus or your finger (a rectangle with dotted lines will appear to help you define the area). Once you release the stylus, the application automatically zooms in on the graph FTB-7000 Series...
Page 139 Analyzing Traces and Events Using Zoom Controls according to the zooming type you have selected. All of the other zoom buttons (except for the zoom on selected event button) will reflect your selection and behave accordingly. You can zoom in or out on the graph by first using, respectively, or the button, and then by pressing the location where you want to zoom on the graph with the stylus or your finger.
Page 140: Setting Trace Display Parameters
The file name appears at the top of the trace display. By default, the file name is displayed. Zoom window Grid Note: The trace display settings used in Auto, Advanced, and Template modes are independent from the ones used in the Fault Finder mode. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 141 Analyzing Traces and Events Setting 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.
Page 142: Customizing The Event Table
ORL and span loss values. If you activated the pass/fail test (see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 53), span-start and span-end events will be taken into account when determining the status (pass/fail) of splice and connector loss and reflectance. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 143 Analyzing Traces and Events Customizing the Event Table 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. To hide them, clear the boxes.
Page 144: Displaying Or Hiding A Trace
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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 145 Analyzing Traces and Events Displaying or Hiding a Trace To specify which traces to display or hide: 1. From the button bar, press Storage. 2. Select the boxes corresponding to the traces to display. Clear the boxes to hide them. Note: A hidden trace cannot be displayed with the navigation button.
Page 146: Clearing Traces From The Display
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 37. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 147: Viewing And Modifying Current Trace Settings
Analyzing Traces and Events Viewing and Modifying Current Trace Settings Viewing and Modifying Current Trace Settings You 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.
Page 148 Setup window. 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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 149 Analyzing Traces and Events Viewing and Modifying Current Trace Settings Max. splice loss: Maximum loss of all non-reflective events between span start and span end. Span ORL: ORL calculated either between the span start and the span end, or on the total fiber span, depending on the option you have selected in the Setup window.
Page 150 If you want to revert a particular item to its default value, press the Default button appearing next to this item. 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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 151 Analyzing Traces and Events Viewing and Modifying Current Trace Settings 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.
Page 152: Modifying Events
If you reanalyze a trace, all of the modified events will be lost and the events table will be re-created. Note: If you want to modify the attenuation value of a fiber section, see Changing the Attenuation of Fiber Sections on page 146. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 153 Analyzing Traces and Events Modifying Events To modify an event: 1. Select the event you want to modify. 2. Press the Change Event button. Markers a, A, B, and b appear on the graph. With these markers, you can define a new location for the selected event. You can reposition all markers directly by dragging them, or by pressing where you want to relocate them on the graph.
Page 154 The area between markers B and b must not include any significant variation. For more information on positioning markers, see Using Markers on page 165. Marker A Marker B Event loss and reflectance are displayed, respectively, in the Loss and Reflectance boxes. Loss and reflectance values FTB-7000 Series...
Page 155 Analyzing Traces and Events Modifying Events 5. If you selected a reflective event, you can modify the echo status using the up/down arrows of the Echo status list. Note: Select “- - -” if you want to indicate that the event is not an echo. 6.
Page 156: Inserting Events
MPORTANT Inserted events are removed when you reanalyze a trace. To insert an event: 1. From the Events tab, press Add New Event. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 157 Analyzing Traces and Events Inserting 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 inserted. Use the marker arrows to move marker A on the trace display.
Page 158: Deleting Events
Analysis tab. MPORTANT The 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 151. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 159 Analyzing Traces and Events Deleting Events To delete an event: 1. Select the event you want to delete. 2. Press Delete. 3. When the application prompts you, press Yes to confirm the deletion, or No to keep the event. 4. From the Edit Comments dialog box, enter a comment. To delete a comment: 1.
Page 160: Changing The Attenuation Of Fiber Sections
Note: If you want to modify events, see Modifying Events on page 138. To modify the attenuation of a fiber section: 1. From the event table, select the fiber section. 2. Press the Change Event button. The A and B markers appear in the trace display. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 161 Analyzing Traces and Events Changing the Attenuation of Fiber Sections 3. Position markers as desired to modify the attenuation value. For more information on positioning markers, see Using Markers on page 165. Note: The markers serve only to set the new attenuation value. Their actual locations will not be modified.
Page 162: Setting The Analysis Detection Thresholds
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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 163 Analyzing Traces and Events Setting the Analysis Detection Thresholds 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.
Page 164 The analysis detection thresholds you have just set are applied to all newly acquired traces. 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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 165: Analyzing Or Reanalyzing A Trace
Analyzing Traces and Events Analyzing or Reanalyzing a Trace Analyzing or Reanalyzing a Trace Note: This function is available in Advanced mode only. 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 (for example, the Automatically Analyze Data after Acquisition feature was not selected;...
Page 166 (See Setting a Default Span Start and Span End on page 58). 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. 4. Press OK to confirm. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 167: Analyzing The Fiber On A Specific Fiber Span
Analyzing Traces and Events Analyzing the Fiber on a Specific Fiber Span Analyzing the Fiber on a Specific Fiber Span Note: This function is available in Advanced mode only. 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.
Page 168: Enabling Or Disabling The Detection Of Reflective Ends Of Fiber
Analyzing or Reanalyzing a Trace on page 151). When you reanalyze a trace, to benefit from the option, you should select Reset span delimiter positions. The application will take into account the option only if there is a significant reflective event located after the end of analysis. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 169 Analyzing Traces and Events Enabling or Disabling the Detection of Reflective Ends of Fiber The table below shows the differences you will notice in the event table depending on if you enable the detection of reflective ends of fiber or not. Option not selected Option selected (conventional analysis)
Page 170 (see Setting the Analysis Detection Thresholds on page 148). To enable or disable the detection of reflective ends of fiber: 1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup. 2. From the OTDR Setup dialog box, go to the Event Table tab. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 171 Analyzing Traces and Events Enabling or Disabling the Detection of Reflective Ends of Fiber 3. If you want to enable the option, under End-of-Fiber parameters, select the Reflective end-of-fiber detection box. If you prefer to disable the option, clear the box. 4.
Page 172: Swapping Traces
1. From the button bar, press Storage. 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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 173: Opening Trace Files
Analyzing Traces and Events Opening Trace Files Opening Trace Files In 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 multiple wavelength trace files simultaneously, each containing several traces.
Page 174 The same zoom will be applied to all traces. Old trace file Traces are displayed in Application defines full view mode. default positions for markers. The first event of the trace is selected. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 175 As soon as a reference trace is open, the application will apply the zoom and marker settings of the reference file to all traces (main and reference). For detailed information on compatibility between EXFO’s file formats and software versions, see OTDR Trace File Compatibility on page 178.
Page 176 (even if the trace is hidden). Press Yes to store the trace. You can now open another trace file. 6. If necessary, specify which traces should be displayed. For more information, see Displaying or Hiding a Trace on page 130. 7. Press Close. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 177: Analyzing The Results Manually
11 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. Selecting the Attenuation and Loss Values that Will Be Displayed By default, in the Measure tab, the application only displays the values...
Page 178 1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup then go to the General tab. 2. Press the Measurement Method button. 3. Select which values you want to see in the Measure tab. 4. Press OK to confirm your selection. 5. Press Exit OTDR Setup to return to the OTDR application. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 179: Using Markers
Analyzing the Results Manually Using Markers Using Markers You can use markers to view the position and relative power of an event. Markers are available from the Events tab (when you modify or add an event) or the Measure tab in the main window. To move a marker: 1.
Page 180: Getting Event Distances And Relative Powers
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 165. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 181: Getting Event Loss (Four-Point And Least-Square Approximation)
Analyzing the Results Manually Getting 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.
Page 182 A and B, respectively. Four-point event loss 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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 183 Analyzing the Results Manually Getting Event Loss (Four-Point and Least-Square Approximation) 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. A-B LSA loss 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...
Page 184 For more information, see Using Zoom Controls on page 123 and Using Markers on page 165. 4. Position submarker a at the beginning of the linear area preceding the event to be measured (must not include any significant events). FTB-7000 Series...
Page 185 Analyzing the Results Manually Getting Event Loss (Four-Point and Least-Square Approximation) 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 (must not include any significant events).
Page 186: Getting Attenuation (Two-Point And Least-Square Approximation)
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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 187 Analyzing the Results Manually Getting Attenuation (Two-Point and Least-Square Approximation) To get attenuation: From the main window, select the Measure tab. 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 165.
Page 188: Getting Reflectance
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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 189: Getting Optical Return Loss (Orl)
Analyzing the Results Manually Getting 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 either between the span start and the span end, or on the total fiber span, depending on the option you have selected in the Setup window.
Page 191: Managing Trace Files From The Otdr Test Application
12 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.
Page 192: 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 Fully compatible Conv Conversion or reanalysis necessary Not compatible FTB-7000 Series...
Page 193 Managing Trace Files from the OTDR Test Application OTDR Trace File Compatibility Software used to open the file... ToolBox ToolBox ToolBox ToolBox FTB-100 FTB-100 FTB-100 6.5 or 6.7 to 6.21 or 2.5 or 2.6 or 2.7 2.8 or earlier 6.20 later earlier later/...
Page 194: Copying, 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 Compact ToolBox. For more information, refer to your unit help. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 195: 13 Creating Reports
13 Creating 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. Adding Information to the Test Results After acquiring a trace, you might want to include or update information about the tested fiber and job or add comments.
Page 196 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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 197: Generating A Report
Creating Reports Generating a Report 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 feature is not selected.
Page 198 ID, cable ID, location A and B. By default, this item is selected. Job information: test date and time (including the time zone), unit serial and model numbers, job and customer ID. By default, this item is selected. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 199 Creating Reports Generating a Report Auto Advanced Template Item appearing on the report mode mode mode Test and Cable Setup for main and reference traces: file name, OTDR model, software version, wavelength, distance, IOR, RBS, acquisition time, pulse width, and helix factor.
Page 200 (one event per trace, that is, one per wavelength). By default, this item is selected. The application will keep in memory the items you have included in your reports for future use. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 201 Creating Reports Generating a Report To print reports: 1. From the Print dialog box, select the report characteristics, including whether you want to include the graphs or not. Select the Print all traces item to print all traces (wavelengths) from the current file (available in Auto and Advanced modes only).
Page 203: Using The Otdr As A Light Source Or Vfl
14 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.
Page 204 (singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode), depending on the wavelength you intend to use. 3. From the main window, press the button. 4. Select the wavelength you want to use. Note: If only one wavelength is available, it is selected by default. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 205 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.
Page 206 To identify fiber faults visually: 1. Clean the connectors properly (see Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers on page 22). 2. Connect the fiber under test to the VFL port. 3. From the main window, press the button. 4. Select Continuous to use the VFL with continuous output or Blink to use the VFL with 1 Hz pulsed output.
Page 207: Analyzing Traces With The Bidirectional Analysis Application
15 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Note: The OTDR Bidirectional application is available from the Test Tools tab in Compact ToolBox. The OTDR Bidirectional application helps you to perform a bidirectional analysis on two unidirectional OTDR traces. For the application to be able to match events, the two OTDR traces must have been acquired in opposite directions and on the same fiber span.
Page 208 In this case, a unidirectional OTDR trace will show an apparent increase (gainer) or decrease (exaggerated loss) in signal, depending on the direction of measurement. Bidirectional averaging of OTDR splice loss measurements provides the most accurate splice loss results. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 209: Starting And Exiting The Bidirectional Analysis Application
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Starting and Exiting the Bidirectional Analysis Application Starting and Exiting the Bidirectional Analysis Application The bidirectional analysis application is available from your unit. To start the Bidirectional Analysis application: 1. From Compact ToolBox, go to the Test Tools tab. 2.
Page 210 A->B and B->A traces. To view the table of events corresponding to the current direction, at the current wavelength. To close the application from the main window: Press (in the bottom right corner of the main window). FTB-7000 Series...
Page 211: Creating Bidirectional Measurement Files
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Creating Bidirectional Measurement Files Creating Bidirectional Measurement Files To work with the OTDR Bidirectional application, you must acquire and save the traces (in the OTDR application) before opening them with the bidirectional analysis application. You can open unidirectional trace files to combine them into a bidirectional measurement file.
Page 212 Trace Both must be unidirectional files (.trc or .sor files). Only traces of native format or of Telcordia (Bellcore) EXFO version 200 format can be reanalyzed and be used to generate the bidirectional measurement. You can open traces of Telcordia (Bellcore) non-EXFO version 200 format, but you cannot reanalyze them.
Page 213 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Creating Bidirectional Measurement Files When two traces are opened in the bidirectional analysis application, the span end of the B->A trace is aligned with the span start of the A->B trace. If the application cannot match the traces perfectly, error or warning messages will appear.
Page 214 This path is independent from the path to the A->B trace files. 3. Back to the Create Bidirectional Measurement dialog box, press OK to confirm. The application will prompt you if some files have not been saved yet. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 215: Opening Existing Bidirectional Measurement Files
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Opening Existing Bidirectional Measurement Files Opening Existing Bidirectional Measurement Files You can open bidirectional measurement files to view results or to reanalyze them. When you open a bidirectional file, you will recover all the data of the unidirectional traces and the bidirectional measurement (one wavelength per bidirectional file).
Page 216: Displaying Traces And Bidirectional Measurement
When you create a bidirectional measurement using multiwavelength files, you can also navigate through the different wavelengths. To switch from one direction to another: From the main window, under Direction, select the desired direction. File name FTB-7000 Series...
Page 217 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Displaying Traces and Bidirectional Measurement To switch from one wavelength to another: From the main window, use the buttons. To switch from one wavelength to another (available only when A->B and B->A traces contain multiple wavelengths).
Page 218: Viewing Results
A->B and B->A traces (see Summary Table). There are many ways to view the results: Graph view Summary table From the main window, you can also access the following tabs to have more information: Events Trace Info. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 219 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Viewing Results Graph View The application shows the results both on a graph and in a table. The events, that are detailed in the events table (see Events Tab on page 208), are marked by numbers along the displayed trace. Event no.
Page 220 “fail” status appear in white on a red background. Span length (corresponds to the greatest span length value among all bidirectional measurements, at all wavelengths) Span loss of the bidirectional measurement Wavelength and fiber type (between parentheses) FTB-7000 Series...
Page 221 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Viewing Results When you select an element from the summary table (or if you switch to another wavelength or direction), the graph, as well as the contents of the Events and Trace Info. tabs are updated accordingly. In the summary table, when you select an element having a “fail”...
Page 222 If an asterisk appears next to the event symbol, the tooltip will also show “(*:Modified)” to indicate that this event has been modified manually. If the asterisk appears next to the event symbol, “(*:Added)” will appear to indicate that this event has been inserted manually. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 223 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Viewing Results For each item listed in the events table, information is displayed. The information vary depending on the direction that is selected. Bidirectional Event type detected measurement (see Description of Event Types on page 297) Event number Position: distance between the OTDR and the measured event, or between the event and the beginning of the fiber span...
Page 224 Trace Info. tab. If you want to modify events or fiber sections, see Modifying Events on page 231, Inserting Events on page 227, and Changing the Attenuation of Fiber Sections on page 237. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 225 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Viewing Results To quickly locate an event in the events table: 1. Ensure that the button is selected in the zoom button bar. 2. Select the event on the trace. The list scrolls automatically to the event you selected. Graph Zoom-on- Event no.
Page 226 A->B and B->A traces, not for the bidirectional measurement (see Modifying Trace Analysis Settings on page 252). To view information about the bidirectional measurement or a specific trace: 1. From the main window, select the Trace Info. tab. 2. Under Direction, select the desired direction. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 227 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Viewing Results The following information is available: Pulse: Pulse width used to perform the acquisition. Span length: Measured length of the total fiber span (between span start and span end). Span loss: Total measured loss of the fiber calculated either between the span start and the span end, or on the total fiber span, depending on the settings you have chosen in the setup window.
Page 228 Splice loss detection: Splice loss threshold for detecting small non-reflective events during trace analysis. Reflectance detection: Reflectance threshold for detecting small reflective events during trace analysis. End-of-fiber detection: End-of-fiber threshold for detecting important event loss, which could compromise signal transmission, during trace analysis. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 229: Reanalyzing Traces And Regenerating The Bidirectional Measurement
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Reanalyzing Traces and Regenerating the Bidirectional Measurement Reanalyzing Traces and Regenerating the Bidirectional Measurement You can analyze the A->B and B->A traces and regenerate the bidirectional measurement at any time. Reanalyzing a trace will: re-create the events table if it was modified.
Page 230 2. Under Direction, select the desired option, depending on which trace you want to reanalyze. 3. If you are working with a multiwavelength file, select the desired wavelength using the buttons. 4. Press the Analyze button. 5. When the application prompts you, select Yes to complete the operation. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 231: Modifying The Alignment Of Unidirectional Traces
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Modifying the Alignment of Unidirectional Traces Modifying the Alignment of Unidirectional Traces When two unidirectional traces are opened in the bidirectional analysis application, the span end of the B->A trace is aligned with the span start of the A->B trace.
Page 232 If you reanalyze a trace, the position of the fiber end will be reset and the events table will be re-created. The application will refresh the graph to reflect the new span start and span end positions automatically. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 233 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Modifying the Alignment of Unidirectional Traces To modify the alignment of A->B or B->A trace: 1. From the main window, select the Alignment tab. 2. Under Direction, select A->B or B->A. 3. Define the span event location by moving marker A along the trace using one of the following methods: Drag marker A to the desired span event location.
Page 234 0. Only events between the span start and span end will be numbered in the trace display and events table.The cumulative loss is calculated within the defined fiber span only. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 235: Using Zoom Controls
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Using Zoom Controls Using Zoom Controls You can use the zoom controls to change the scale of the trace display. You can zoom in on or out of the graph using the corresponding buttons or let the application automatically adjust the zoom on the currently selected event from the events table.
Page 236 1 will be selected. If the button is selected, as soon as you open another bidirectional file, the option will be deselected. This will allow the application to restore the zoom context that was saved along with the measurement. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 237 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Using Zoom Controls To view specific portions of the graph: You can define which portion of the graph will be visible by selecting button and dragging the graph with the stylus or your finger. This could be useful, for example, if you want to zoom in on events located outside the defined fiber span.
Page 238 4. From the events table, select the desired event. 5. Press to automatically adjust the zoom factor. The button remains selected until you deselect it, or open another bidirectional file. To revert to the complete graph view: Press the button. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 239: Using Markers To Edit Events
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Using Markers to Edit Events Using Markers to Edit Events You can use markers to define or modify the position of an event on the A->B or B->A trace. Markers are available when you modify or add an event. If two markers are located at the same place, both will move together.
Page 240 For example, instead of having the distance between span start and A as the first element, you would have the distance between span start and B. As another example, instead of having the distance between A and B, you would have the distance between B and A. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 241: Inserting Events
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Inserting Events Inserting Events Note: You can only create events for the A->B or B->A trace (not for the bidirectional measurement). The application regenerates the bidirectional measurement automatically to take into account the modifications you have made.
Page 242 1. From the main window, select the Edit tab. 2. Under Direction, select either A->B or B->A. 3. If desired, you can select an item from the events table that is near the location where you want to insert an event. 4. Press the Insert button. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 243 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Inserting Events 5. Specify the exact location where you want to insert an event. Marker b Marker a Marker A Marker B Four markers are available to help you place the event, but only marker A identifies where the event will be inserted.
Page 244 7. Press Insert to create the event or Cancel to return to the events table without making any changes. Inserted events are identified with “*” (appearing beside the event symbol) in the events table of both Edit and Events tabs as shown below. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 245: Modifying Events
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Modifying Events Modifying Events Note: You can only modify the events of the A->B or B->A trace (not those of the bidirectional measurement). The application regenerates the bidirectional measurement automatically to take into account the modifications you have made.
Page 246 2. Under Direction, select either A->B or B->A. 3. Select the event you want to modify. Position of marker A 4. Press the Modify button. Note: If the Modify button is not available, that means you cannot modify events of this type. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 247 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Modifying Events 5. If desired, specify a new location for the selected event. Note: You cannot select another event from the events table of the Edit tab in modification mode. If you want to modify another event instead, press Cancel, then change your selection.
Page 248 7. Press Modify to accept the modifications you have made, or Cancel to return to the events table without saving the changes. The modified events are identified with “*” (appearing beside the event symbol) in the events table of both Edit and Events tabs as shown below. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 249: Deleting Events
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Deleting Events Deleting Events Note: You can only delete events from the A->B or B->A trace (not from the bidirectional measurement). The application regenerates the bidirectional measurement automatically to take into account the modifications you have made.
Page 250 4. Press Delete. Note: If the Delete button is not available, that means you cannot delete events of this type. 5. When the application prompts you, press Yes to confirm the deletion, or No to keep the event. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 251: Changing The Attenuation Of Fiber Sections
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Changing the Attenuation of Fiber Sections Changing the Attenuation of Fiber Sections Note: You can only modify the sections of the A->B or B->A trace (not those of the bidirectional measurement). The application regenerates the bidirectional measurement automatically to take into account the modifications you have made.
Page 252 1. From the main window, select the Edit tab. 2. Under Direction, select either A->B or B->A. 3. Select the fiber section that you want to modify. 4. Press the Modify button. The A and B markers appear in the trace display. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 253 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Changing the Attenuation of Fiber Sections 5. Position markers as desired to modify the attenuation value. For more information on positioning markers, see Using Markers to Edit Events on page 225. Note: The markers serve only to set the new attenuation value. Their actual locations will not be modified.
Page 254: Setting General Parameters
Pulse width unit: You can select the unit that is used in the Trace Info. tab to express the pulse value. The pulse value can be expressed in units of time or distance. Pulse width unit FTB-7000 Series...
Page 255 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Setting General Parameters the gridlines: You can display or hide the grid appearing on the graph’s background. By default, the gridlines are displayed. Gridlines displayed the graph background: You can display the graph with a black (invert color feature) or a white background.
Page 256 The changes are applied automatically. To revert to factory default settings: 1. From the Main Menu, select Setup, then select the General tab. 2. Press the Revert to Factory Settings button. Note: Only the parameters from the current tab have been reset. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 257: Customizing The Events Table
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Customizing the Events Table Customizing the Events Table You can include or exclude items from the events table to better suit your needs. By default, all items are selected. Include span start and span end loss: When applicable, the application will include the losses caused by the span start and span end events in the displayed values.
Page 258 Note: If you have not selected the Show event comment in tooltip option in the Events setup tab, the red triangles will not appear even if there are comments. To add or modify comments about events, you must use either FastReporter or the application of the OTDR for the FTB-500. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 259 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Customizing the Events Table To customize the events table appearance: 1. From the Main Menu, select Setup, then select the Events tab. 2. Select the boxes corresponding to the item you want to display or include in the table.
Page 260: Saving The Span-Start And Span-End Information
2. Select the Keep span start current position and/or the Keep span end current position boxes. If you prefer not to save the span positions, clear the boxes. 3. Press Apply to confirm the changes, then OK to return to the main window. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 261: Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds You can activate and set Pass/Fail threshold parameters for your traces and measurements. These thresholds are part of the OTDR Bidirectional application (not of the bidirectional files). This means that once you have set them, you can reuse them as many times as you want with other files.
Page 262 Values that are greater than the predefined fail thresholds are displayed in white on a red background 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). FTB-7000 Series...
Page 263 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds To set pass/fail thresholds: 1. From the Main Menu, select Setup, then select the Thresholds tab. 2. From the Wavelength list, select the wavelength for which you want to set thresholds. Value associated Threshold to set with the...
Page 264 Note: You can use the Select All button to quickly select all boxes at the same time. 4c. Press OK to confirm you selection. 5. Press Apply to confirm the changes, then OK to return to the main window. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 265 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds To revert to default threshold values and to delete custom wavelengths: 1. From the Main Menu, select Setup, then select the Thresholds tab. 2. Press the Revert to Factory Settings button. 3.
Page 266: Modifying Trace Analysis Settings
If you modify this parameter, the reflectance and ORL measurements for the trace will be adjusted. Helix factor: Helix factor setting of the displayed trace. If you modify this parameter, the distance measurements for the trace will be adjusted. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 267 1.000 25.000 Note: The event detection thresholds are not available when you work with a trace in Telcordia (Bellcore) non-EXFO version 200 format. MPORTANT Modifications to the detection thresholds alter the displayed traces because the application automatically reanalyzes the current trace and regenerates the bidirectional measurement.
Page 268 To modify the trace analysis settings of the selected trace: 1. From the main window, select the Trace Info. tab. 2. Under Direction, select either A->B or B->A. 3. Press the Trace Analysis Settings button. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 269 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Modifying Trace Analysis Settings 4. Enter values for the current trace in the appropriate boxes. If you already know the IOR value, select Fixed IOR, then enter the value 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, select Fixed length instead, then enter the distance value.
Page 270 6. Press Apply to confirm the changes. 7. The application may prompt you to confirm whether you want to apply the changes to both unidirectional traces. Select the option that better suits your needs. 8. Press OK to return to the Trace Info. tab. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 271: Saving Traces
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Saving Traces Saving Traces After recalling, analyzing and displaying the two traces in the bidirectional table, these traces may be stored as a merged bidirectional file in order to facilitate file management. All information in the tables, comments and reports for A->B, B->A, as well as the bidirectional trace will be saved in the bidirectional file.
Page 272 2. From the Save As dialog box, select a folder or create one to save your file. 3. If desired, modify the file name. MPORTANT If you specify the name of an existing trace, the original file will be overwritten and only the new file will be available. 4. Press Save to confirm. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 273: Exporting Unidirectional Traces From Bidirectional Files
The files that you export are in native .trc format that can be opened with the OTDR application. Note: Traces in Telcordia (Bellcore) EXFO version 200 format, will also be exported to a native .trc format, but operations allowed on them will be limited.
Page 274 5. If desired, modify the file name. MPORTANT If you specify the name of an existing trace file, the original file will be overwritten and only the new file will be available. 6. Press Save to confirm. The exported trace is now available. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 275: Adding Information To The Test Results
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Adding Information to the Test Results Adding Information to the Test Results You might want to include or update information about the tested fiber and job or add comments to the A->B or B->A traces. This information will be included in the reports that you will create (see Creating Reports on page 263).
Page 276 Note: The information appearing in the Model and Serial number boxes cannot be deleted. 2. When the application prompts you, confirm the deletion with Yes. 3. Press Apply to confirm your changes, then OK to return to the main window. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 277: Creating Reports
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Creating Reports Creating Reports You can create a report directly from the bidirectional application. This report will be saved in .html format. You can open it from your unit or from any computer equipped with a Web browser. It includes the following information: general information such as the cable ID, fiber ID, operators, etc.
Page 278 3. From the Save As dialog box, select a folder or create one to save your file. 4. If desired, modify the file name. MPORTANT If you specify the name of an existing report, the original file will be overwritten and only the new file will be available. 5. Press Save to confirm. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 279 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Creating Reports To view a report from your unit: 1. Exit the OTDR Bidirectional application. 2. From Compact ToolBox, open File Manager. 3. Go to the folder in which you have saved your report. 4.
Page 281: 16 Maintenance
16 Maintenance To help ensure long, trouble-free operation: Always inspect fiber-optic connectors before using them and clean them if necessary. 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.
Page 282: Cleaning Eui Connectors
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). 4. Gently turn the cleaning tip one full turn, then continue to turn as you withdraw it. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 283 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 (for example, EXFO’s FOMS) or fiber inspection probe (for example, EXFO’s FIP). ARNING Verifying the surface of the connector WHILE THE UNIT IS ACTIVE WILL result in permanent eye damage.
Page 284: Verifying Your Otdr
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.
Page 285 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. OTDR...
Page 286 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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 287 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.
Page 288 2 km or more 2km or more 2 km or more 2km or more 1 to M reels of fiber 1 to M reels of fiber Fiber end Fiber End (Add as needed) ( Add as needed ) FTB-7000 Series...
Page 289 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.
Page 290 2 km or more 2 km or more 2 km or more 4 km min Fiber end 1 to M reels of fiber 1 to M reels of fiber Fiber End (Add as needed) ( Add as needed ) FTB-7000 Series...
Page 291 Maintenance Verifying Your OTDR 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 (dB) between the launch level and a 0.5 dB splice (which can be detected and measured to an accuracy of ±...
Page 292: Recalibrating The Unit
You should determine the adequate calibration interval for your unit according to your accuracy requirements. Under normal use, EXFO recommends calibrating your unit every year. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 293: Recycling And Disposal (Applies To European Union Only)
This equipment was sold after August 13, 2005 (as identified by the black rectangle). 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...
Page 295: 17 Troubleshooting
17 Troubleshooting Problem Cause Solution The application displays The fiber under test is Ensure that the fiber under test is a message indicating too long. shorter than the maximum length the that a “Non-resolved OTDR can measure. fiber end” event has been found.
Page 296 Any incoming signal greater than – 20 dBm could damage your OTDR permanently. For live-fiber testing, refer to the SM Live port specifications for the characteristics of the built-in filter. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 297 If you still see the message about live wavelength. fiber error even if no fiber is connected to the OTDR, contact EXFO. Singlemode live-fiber testing requires that the integrated power in the test channel (corresponding to the filter bandwidth of the SM Live port) be as low as possible.
Page 298: Contacting The Technical Support Group
Contacting the Technical Support Group To 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, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Page 299: Transportation
Troubleshooting Transportation Transportation Maintain a temperature range within specifications when transporting the unit. Transportation damage can occur from improper handling. The following steps are recommended to minimize the possibility of damage: Pack the unit in its original packing material when shipping. Avoid high humidity or large temperature fluctuations.
Page 301: 18 Warranty
18 Warranty General Information EXFO Inc. (EXFO) warrants this equipment against defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of original shipment. EXFO also warrants that this equipment will meet applicable specifications under normal use.
Page 302: Liability
Liability Liability EXFO 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.
Page 303: Service And Repairs
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.
Page 304: Exfo Service Centers Worldwide
Warranty EXFO Service Centers Worldwide EXFO Service Centers Worldwide If your product requires servicing, contact your nearest authorized service center. EXFO Headquarters Service Center 400 Godin Avenue 1 866 683-0155 (USA and Canada) Quebec (Quebec) G1M 2K2 Tel.: 1 418 683-5498...
Page 305: A Technical Specifications
MPORTANT The 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. SPECIFICATIONS TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS FTB-7200D...
Page 306 97 mm x 25 mm x 260 mm (3 in x 1 in x 10 ¼ in) 130 mm x 36 mm x 252 mm (5 in x 1 in x 9 Weight 0.55 kg (1.2 lb) 0.65 kg (1.4 lb) FTB-7000 Series...
Page 307 Technical Specifications All specifications valid at 23 °C ± 2 °C with an FC/PC connector, unless otherwise specified. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Model FTB-7400E-XXXX FTB-7400E-CWS FTB-7400E-CWCL Wavelengths (nm) 1310 ± 20/1383 ± 1/1550 ± 20/1625 ± 10 1470 ± 3/1490 ± 3/1510 ± 3/1530 ± 3 1550 ±...
Page 308 Typical dynamic range with a three-minute averaging at SNR = 1. Typical dynamic range at 1550 nm for the FTB-7500E-0023B configuration is 2 dB lower. d. Typical dead zone of singlemode modules for reflectance below –45 dB, using a 5 ns pulse. e. Does not include uncertainty due to fiber index. f. Typical output power value at 1550 nm. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 309 Technical Specifications All specifications valid at 23 °C ± 2 °C with an FC/PC connector, unless otherwise specified. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Model FTB-7600E Wavelengths (nm) 1310 ± 20/1550 ± 20/1625 ± 10 Dynamic range at 20 s (dB) 50/50/48 Event dead zone (m) 1/1.5/1 Attenuation dead zone (m) 5/5/5...
Page 311: B Description Of Event Types
Description of Event Types This 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.
Page 312: Span Start
This will set the end of the events table at a specific event along the trace. Short Fibers You can test short fibers with the application. You can even define a fiber span for short fibers by placing the span start and the span end on the same event. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 313: Continuous Fiber
Description of Event Types Continuous Fiber Continuous Fiber Reflected power (dB) Continuous fiber Distance (km) 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.
Page 314: End Of Analysis
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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 315: Non-Reflective Event
Description of Event Types Non-Reflective Event Non-Reflective Event Reflected power (dB) Non-reflective event Linear downward slope due to Rayleigh backscatter Distance (km) 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.
Page 316: Reflective Event
If you set thresholds, the application indicates a reflective fault in the events table, whenever a value exceeds reflectance or connector loss thresholds (see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 53). FTB-7000 Series...
Page 317: Positive Event
Description of Event Types Positive Event Positive Event Reflected power (dB) Positive event Distance (km) 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.
Page 318: Launch Level
The straight line is projected toward the Y-axis (dB) until it crosses the axis. The crossing point indicates the launch level. <<<< in the events table indicates that the launch level is too low. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 319: Fiber Section
Description of Event Types Fiber Section Fiber Section Reflected power (dB) Fiber Fiber section section Distance (km) 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.
Page 320: Merged Event
Non-reflective events may indicate the presence of splices, splitters or bendings. A reflectance value is specified for all merged events and indicates the maximum reflectance for the merged event. A reflectance value is also displayed for each reflective subevent composing the Merged Event. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 321 Description of Event Types Merged 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.
Page 322 Only some event types are selected (for example, you could decide not to test reflective loss) The third case would be to test none of the event types, which means the same as not wanting to know the status of the events. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 323 Description of Event Types Merged Event All Event Types Are Tested In the first case, where all event types are tested, the pass/fail conditions are as follows: If the event loss is less than or equal to the smallest threshold value, then the event status is Pass.
Page 324 Pass. Otherwise, we cannot know, so the status of the event is Unknown. In our example, if we suppose that the you chose not to test non-reflective losses, then the analysis would be done as shown below: Pass Pass Unknown Unknown FTB-7000 Series...
Page 325 Description of Event Types Merged Event Effect of Event Status in the Global Trace Status A trace status is, by default, set to Unknown. If a trace is set to Fail once, it remains with that status (it cannot be set back to Pass or Unknown).
Page 326: Echo
(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. FTB-7000 Series...
Page 327: Reflective Event (Possible Echo)
Description of Event Types Reflective Event (Possible Echo) Reflective Event (Possible Echo) Reflected power (dB) OTDR connector Second connector Third connector Reflective event (possible echo) Distance (km) 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.
Page 329: Index
Index Index analyzing a trace. see analysis, after acquisition analyzing traces......... 154 ***** indication ........174 application, main window ......196 application, starting ........19 Att. column in events table..114, 209, 210 attenuation accessing source........189 fiber section ........53, 247 accuracy, trace ..........
Page 330 OTDR ........1 as span start/end ..58, 153, 220 deleting events........144, 235 fault notification ........248 delimiting fiber span ......128, 243 insertion........142, 227 description of event types ......297 location........ 113, 115, 211 detecting module........16 FTB-7000 Series...
Page 331 ......... 267 locating event......115, 211 trace editing buttons ......115 events, view ..........108 General tab........88, 126, 241 EXFO universal interface. see EUI generating reports........184 graph view ..........205 grid display........88, 126, 241 OTDR...
Page 332 ..107 average splice ......134, 213 multiwavelength trace file connector ........53, 247 bidirectional analysis......197 connector, threshold ..... 53, 247 displaying ..........130 cumulative for fiber span..... 134, 213 in events table ......113, 210 FTB-7000 Series...
Page 333 Index pass/fail test disabling ........54, 248 naming trace automatically....24, 78 enabling......... 54, 248 native trace format........178 when to perform........54 noise area, searching......... 154 photodetector ..........8 non-reflective event, averaged loss ... 134, 213 Pos. in event table ......209, 210 number position, event........
Page 334 ..........58 technical support........284 pass/fail thresholds ......53, 247 temperature for storage ......267 shipping to EXFO ........289 Template mode signal-to-noise ratio ........46 acquiring the reference trace ....64 single-wavelength trace file, bidir. analysis 197 acquiring traces ........
Page 335 Index setting parameters......... 62 acquisition in Auto mode....... 35 test settings used........62 acquisition in Fault finder mode .... 75 testing ........... 61 acquisition in Template mode....66 Template OTDR. see Template mode analysis ........151, 215 test wavelength, forced selection..36, 40 analysis detection thresholds ..
Page 336 ..... 153, 217 using light source........189 1 Hz pulsed output ......192 continuous wave output...... 192 using ........... 189 view graph........... 205 linear ........... 108 summary......110, 111, 206 visual fault locator. see VFL FTB-7000 Series...
Page 337 CHINESE REGULATION ON RESTRICTION OF HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES NAMES AND CONTENTS OF THE TOXIC OR HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES OR ELEMENTS CONTAINED IN THIS EXFO PRODUCT EXFO Indicates that this toxic or hazardous substance contained in all of the homogeneous materials for this part is below the limit requirement in SJ/T11363-2006...
Page 338 MARKING REQUIREMENTS Product Environmental protection use period (years) Logo This Exfo product EXFO Battery If applicable.
Page 339 East, Dongcheng District EXFO SERVICE ASSURANCE 270 Billerica Road Chelmsford MA, 01824 USA Tel.: 1 978 367-5600 · Fax: 1 978 367-5700 TOLL-FREE (USA and Canada) 1 800 663-3936 © 2011 EXFO Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in Canada (2011-02)

This manual is also suitable for:

Ftb-7400 series Ftb-7200d Ftb-720 Ftb-7300e Ftb-730 Ftb-7400e-cws ... Show all

EXFO FTB-7000 Series User Manual

1 Introducing the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer

2 Safety Information

3 Getting Started with Your OTDR

4 Preparing Your OTDR for a Test

5 Testing Fibers in Auto Mode

6 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode

7 Testing Fibers in Template Mode

8 Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode

9 Customizing Your OTDR

10 Analyzing Traces and Events

11 Analyzing the Results Manually

12 Managing Trace Files from the OTDR Test Application

13 Creating Reports

14 Using the OTDR as a Light Source or VFL

15 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application

16 Maintenance

17 Troubleshooting

18 Warranty

A Technical Specifications

B Description of Event Types

Index

Quick Links

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