Page 1 User Guide FTB-7000 Series OTDR for FTB-200...
Page 2 Engineering Inc. (EXFO). Information provided by EXFO is believed to be accurate and reliable. However, no responsibility is assumed by EXFO for its use nor for any infringements of patents or other rights of third parties that may result from its use.
Page 3: Table Of Contents
Starting Module Applications ....................19 Timer ............................19 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 .....................30...
Page 4 Contents 7 Testing Fibers in Template Mode ...............63 Template Principle .........................63 Restrictions of Template Mode ....................64 Acquiring the Reference Trace ....................66 Acquiring Traces in Template Mode ..................68 Selecting a Reference Trace ....................76 8 Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode ............77 Acquiring Traces in Fault Finder Mode ..................77 Naming Fault Finder Files Automatically ................80 Selecting the Default File Format for the Fault Finder Traces ..........82...
Page 5 Contents 10 Analyzing Traces and Events ..............107 Graph View .........................108 Linear View .........................110 Summary Table ........................112 Events Tab ...........................114 Measure Tab ........................117 Trace Info. Tab ........................117 Displaying the Graph in Full Screen ..................118 Selecting the Default View ....................120 Automatically Displaying the Event Table after Acquisitions ..........122 Automatically Zooming in on the Fiber Span ..............123 Using Zoom Controls ......................124 Setting Trace Display Parameters ..................128...
Page 6 Contents 13 Creating and Printing Trace Reports ............183 Adding Information to the Test Results ................184 Printing a Report ........................186 14 Using the OTDR as a Light Source or VFL ..........191 15 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application ....195 Starting and Exiting the Bidirectional Analysis Application ..........197 Creating Bidirectional Measurement Files ................199 Opening Existing Bidirectional Measurement Files ..............204 Displaying Traces and Bidirectional Measurement ..............205...
Page 7 18 Warranty ....................291 General Information ......................291 Liability ..........................292 Exclusions ...........................292 Certification ........................292 Service and Repairs ......................293 EXFO Service Centers Worldwide ..................294 A Technical Specifications ................295 B Description of Event Types ..............297 Span Start ..........................298 Span End ...........................298 Short Fibers ........................298 Continuous Fiber .......................299...
Page 8: Certification Information
F.C.C. Information Electronic test equipment is exempt from Part 15 compliance (FCC) in the United States. However, compliance verification tests are systematically performed on most EXFO equipment. Information Electronic test equipment is subject to the EMC Directive in the European Union.
Page 9 DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Application of Council Directive(s): 2006/95/EC - The Low Voltage Directive 2004/108/EC - The EMC Directive And their amendments Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. Manufacturer’s Address: 400 Godin Avenue Quebec, Quebec Canada, G1M 2K2 (418) 683-0211 Equipment Type/Environment: Test &...
Page 10 DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Application of Council Directive(s): 2006/95/EC - The Low Voltage Directive 2004/108/EC - The EMC Directive And their amendments Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. Manufacturer’s Address: 400 Godin Avenue Quebec, Quebec Canada, G1M 2K2 (418) 683-0211 Equipment Type/Environment: Test &...
Page 11 DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Application of Council Directive(s): 2006/95/EC - The Low Voltage Directive 2004/108/EC - The EMC Directive And their amendments Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. Manufacturer’s Address: 400 Godin Avenue Quebec, Quebec Canada, G1M 2K2 (418) 683-0211 Equipment Type/Environment: Test &...
Page 12 DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Application of Council Directive(s): 2006/95/EC - The Low Voltage Directive 2004/108/EC - The EMC Directive And their amendments Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. Manufacturer’s Address: 400 Godin Avenue Quebec, Quebec Canada, G1M 2K2 (418) 683-0211 Equipment Type/Environment: Test &...
Page 13 DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Application of Council Directive(s): 2006/95/EC - The Low Voltage Directive 2004/108/EC - The EMC Directive And their amendments Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering 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: Main Features
Introducing the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer Main Features OTDR Visual fault locator (VFL) port (optional) Handle OTDR port (singlemode or multimode) Other models Main Features The OTDR: Can be used with the FTB-400 Universal Test System (refer to FTB-400 Universal Test System user guide) and the FTB-200 Compact Modular Platform.
Page 17: Trace Acquisition Modes
Introducing the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer Trace Acquisition Modes Trace Acquisition Modes The OTDR application provides the following trace acquisition modes: Auto: Automatically calculates fiber length, sets acquisition parameters, acquires traces, and displays event tables and acquired traces. Advanced: Offers all the tools needed to perform integral OTDR tests and measurements and gives you control over all test parameters.
Page 18: Bidirectional Analysis Application
Introducing the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer Bidirectional Analysis Application 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 19 Introducing the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer Available OTDR Models OTDR Models Description Singlemode and Optimized for metro network installation and singlemode live (SM Live) troubleshooting, access and FTTx test applications (end-to-end links), and inside plant testing. FTB-7300E-XXXB Test through splitter for FTTH PON characterization. Live fiber out-of-band testing with filtered SM Live port at 1625 nm or 1650 nm.
Page 20 Suitable for characterization of ultra long cables Best in class analysis for accurate measurement of loss, reflectance and attenuation. The following OTDR models are not compatible with the FTB-200 Compact Modular Platform: FTB-7000B FTB-7000C FTB-7000D FTB-7000B-ER FTB-7000 Series...
Page 21: Otdr Basic Principles
Introducing the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer OTDR Basic Principles OTDR Basic Principles An OTDR sends short pulses of light into a fiber. Light scattering occurs in the fiber due to discontinuities such as connectors, splices, bends, and faults. An OTDR then detects and analyzes the backscattered signals. The signal strength is measured for specific intervals of time and is used to characterize events.
Page 22 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 23: Conventions
Introducing the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer Conventions Conventions Before using the product described in this manual, you should understand the following conventions: ARNING Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury. Do not proceed unless you understand and meet the required conditions.
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)
Safety Information Laser Safety Information (Models with VFL) Laser Safety Information (Models with VFL) Your instrument is a Class 3R laser product in compliance with standards IEC 60825-1 : 2007 and 21 CFR 1040.10. It is potentially harmful in direct intrabeam viewing.
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 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...
Page 28 Getting Started with Your OTDR Inserting and Removing Test Modules To insert a module into the FTB-200 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 Getting Started with Your OTDR Inserting and Removing Test Modules 7. While applying slight pressure to the module, use a coin to turn the retaining screw clockwise until it is tightened. This will secure the module into its “seated” position. Turn retaining screws clockwise Bottom panel...
Page 31 Getting Started with Your OTDR Inserting and Removing Test Modules To remove a module from the FTB-200 Compact Modular Platform: 1. Turn off your unit. 2. Position the unit so that the bottom panel is facing you. 3. Using a coin, turn the retaining screw counterclockwise until it stops. The module will be slowly released from the slot.
Page 32 Getting Started with Your OTDR Inserting and Removing Test Modules 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.
Page 33: Starting Module Applications
Starting Module Applications Starting Module Applications Your modules can be configured and controlled from their dedicated applications in ToolBox CE. To start a module application: 1. From ToolBox CE select the module to use. It will turn blue to indicate that it is highlighted. 2.
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
Preparing Your OTDR for a Test Naming Trace Files Automatically Naming Trace Files Automatically Each time you start an acquisition, the application suggests a file name based on autonaming settings. This file name appears on the upper part of the graph and the linear view. The file name is made of a static part (alphanumeric) and a variable part (numeric) that will be incremented or decremented, according to your selection, as follows:...
Page 39 Preparing Your OTDR for a Test Naming Trace Files Automatically Note: If you selected 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 Preparing Your OTDR for a Test Naming Trace Files Automatically 4. Fill out the required information in the corresponding boxes and select the direction for your trace files. 5. Press the button appearing next to the Fiber ID box to change the contents of the fiber identification.
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
Preparing Your OTDR for a Test Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check Note: This function is available in all OTDR modes. However, the first connector check parameter used in Fault Finder mode is independent from the one used in the other OTDR modes (Auto, Advanced and Template).
Page 43 Preparing Your OTDR for a Test 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.
Page 44: Setting Macrobend Parameters
Preparing Your OTDR for a Test Setting Macrobend Parameters Setting Macrobend Parameters Note: This function is available with the optional software package only. 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 45 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 46: 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 47 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. OTDR...
Page 49: 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 50 Testing Fibers in Auto Mode Once the acquisition is complete or interrupted, the analysis starts for acquisitions of 5 seconds or more. After analysis, the trace is displayed and events appear in the events table. Trace display Event pane The application will also display status messages if you have selected to display pass/fail messages (see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 55).
Page 51 Testing Fibers in Auto Mode AUTION Never connect a live fiber to the OTDR port without a proper setup. Any incoming optical power ranging from –65 dBm to –40 dBm will affect the OTDR acquisition. The way the acquisition will be affected depends on the selected pulse width.
Page 52 Testing Fibers in Auto Mode 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). 9. Once the analysis is complete, save the trace by pressing Quick Save in the button bar or from the keypad.
Page 53: 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 54 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Although the application sets the acquisition parameters, you can modify these values as needed, even while the acquisition is in progress. The OTDR simply restarts the averaging each time a modification is made. Note: You can interrupt the acquisition at any time. The application will display the information acquired to that point.
Page 55 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 56 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode 7. If your OTDR supports singlemode, singlemode live, or multimode wavelengths, under Wavelengths, from the list, select the desired fiber type (for live-fiber testing, select SM Live; for C fiber, select 50 μm and for D fiber, select 62.5 μm). 8.
Page 57 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode 11. 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 58: Setting The Autorange Acquisition Time
Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Setting the Autorange Acquisition Time Setting the Autorange Acquisition Time Note: This function is available both in Advanced and Auto modes. When performing automatic acquisitions in Advanced mode (see Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode on page 39) or before activating Auto mode (see Testing Fibers in Auto Mode on page 35), you can set an autorange acquisition time for the OTDR to average acquisitions over a set time period.
Page 59: 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 60 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Setting the IOR, RBS Coefficient, and Helix Factor To set the IOR, RBS, and helix factor parameters: 1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup. 2. From the OTDR Setup window, go to the Acquisition tab. 3.
Page 61: 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 99).
Page 62 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Setting Distance Range, Pulse Width, and Acquisition Time Time: corresponds to the acquisition duration (period during which results will be averaged). Generally, longer acquisition times generate cleaner traces (this is especially true with long-distance traces) because as the acquisition time increases, more of the noise is averaged out.
Page 63 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 64 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Setting Distance Range, Pulse Width, and Acquisition Time To use the same pulse and acquisition time for all wavelengths: 1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup, then go to the Acquisition tab. 2. Select the Apply settings to all wavelengths box. The modifications you make to pulse, time, and range settings will now be applied to all wavelengths.
Page 65: 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 66 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Enabling the High-Resolution Feature To enable the high-resolution feature: 1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup. 2. Go to the Acquisition tab. 3. Select the High-resolution acquisition box. 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.
Page 67: 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 68 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Enabling or Disabling Analysis After Acquisition To enable or disable the analysis after trace acquisition: 1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup. 2. Go to the Analysis tab. 3. If you want the OTDR to automatically analyze an acquired trace, select the Automatically analyze data after acquisition box.
Page 69: 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 70 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds The following table provides the default, minimum and maximum thresholds. Test Default Minimum Maximum Splice loss (dB) 1.000 0.015 5.000 Connector loss (dB) 1.000 0.015 5.000 Reflectance (dB) –40.00 –80.0 Fiber section attenuation (dB/km) 0.400 0.000 5.000...
Page 71 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 72 Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds 5. If you want to apply the thresholds you have just defined to one or several other wavelengths, proceed as follows: 5a. Press the Copy to Other Wavelengths button. 5b. Select the boxes corresponding to the wavelengths for which you want to use the same thresholds.
Page 73 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 74: Setting A Default Span Start And Span End
Testing Fibers in Advanced Mode Setting a Default Span Start and Span End Setting a Default Span Start and Span End By default, the span start and span end of a fiber are assigned, respectively, to the first event (the launch level event) and the last event (often a non-reflective or reflective end event) of a trace.
Page 75 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 77: 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 78: Restrictions Of Template Mode
Testing Fibers in Template Mode Restrictions of Template Mode Restrictions of Template Mode To speed up trace acquisition in Template mode, certain restrictions apply. The parameters used to acquire the reference trace are automatically applied when acquiring subsequent traces (including the high-resolution feature, when applicable).
Page 79 Testing Fibers in Template Mode Restrictions of Template Mode Item To be valid... Fiber types Compare singlemode traces with singlemode traces. Compare multimode traces with multimode traces. Number of Traces must have at least two events (span start and span end) and a events fiber section.
Page 80: Acquiring The Reference Trace
Testing Fibers in Template Mode Acquiring the Reference Trace Acquiring the Reference Trace You must acquire a reference trace before you start the Template mode. The acquisition parameters you define for this reference trace will be used to acquire subsequent traces. To acquire the reference trace: If your unit is equipped with two OTDR ports, ensure that you connect the fiber to the appropriate port (singlemode, singlemode live, or...
Page 81 Testing Fibers in Template Mode Acquiring the Reference Trace 3. If necessary, define the span start and end (see Analyzing the Fiber on a Specific Fiber Span on page 156). 4. Once the analysis is complete, save the trace by pressing Quick Save in the button bar or from the keypad.
Page 82: Acquiring Traces In Template Mode
Testing Fibers in Template Mode Acquiring Traces in Template Mode Acquiring Traces in Template Mode To acquire traces in Template mode, you must first open your reference trace in the application. If you want your reference trace to be more accurate, you can update it with the new events that might be found.
Page 83 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. OTDR...
Page 84 Testing Fibers in Template Mode Acquiring Traces in Template Mode 3c. If necessary, select Create reference trace to update your reference trace for the next acquisitions. This mode will use the first 15 traces (or less, if you stop the process manually) to continue compiling events.
Page 85 Testing Fibers in Template Mode Acquiring Traces in Template Mode 4. If you selected Create reference trace at step 3c, update your reference trace as follows: 4a. Press Start or from the keypad. 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).
Page 86 Testing Fibers in Template Mode Acquiring Traces in Template Mode 4d. Question marks will appear in the Event table to identify new events not found on the reference trace. If you want to add these marked events to the reference trace, press Add to Ref. You can also delete unwanted events with the Delete button.
Page 87 Testing Fibers in Template Mode Acquiring Traces in Template Mode 4e. 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 Testing Fibers in Template Mode Acquiring Traces in Template Mode 5. Once the reference update is complete (or if you did not select the reference update), the application automatically switches to Template mode. New events will be managed according to the option you selected at step 3d.
Page 89 Testing Fibers in Template Mode Acquiring Traces in Template Mode 5c. Once the analysis is complete, save the trace by pressing Quick Save in the button bar or from the keypad. New event found Event present on reference trace, but not found on current trace The application will use a file name based on the autonaming parameters you defined (see Naming Trace Files Automatically on...
Page 90: Selecting A Reference Trace
Testing Fibers in Template Mode Selecting a Reference Trace Selecting a Reference Trace In Template OTDR mode, you can only select a file as a reference trace. This operation is closely related to opening a trace file. All the traces, will be displayed using the zoom and markers settings saved along with the reference trace file (see Opening Trace Files on page 161).
Page 91: 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 92 Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Acquiring Traces in Fault Finder Mode 3. From the Port list, specify to which port you connected your fiber (for C fiber, select 50 μm and for D fiber, select 62.5 μm). 4. Press Start or from the keypad.
Page 93 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 80).
Page 94: Naming Fault Finder Files Automatically
Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Naming Fault Finder Files Automatically Naming Fault Finder Files Automatically Each time you start an acquisition, the Fault Finder application suggests a file name based on autonaming settings. This file name appears on the upper part of the graph.
Page 95 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 96: Selecting The Default File Format For The Fault Finder Traces
Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Selecting the Default File Format for the Fault Finder Traces Selecting the Default File Format for the Fault Finder Traces You can define the default file format the Fault Finder application will use when you save your traces. Note: The default file format used in Fault Finder mode are independent from the file format used in Auto, Advanced or Template modes.
Page 97 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 98: Enabling Or Disabling The Confirmation Of Fault Finder File Name
Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Enabling or Disabling the Confirmation of Fault Finder File Name Enabling or Disabling the Confirmation of Fault Finder File Name By default, each time you save a file, the application prompts you to confirm the file name. Note: The file name confirmation parameter used in Fault Finder mode is independent from the one used in the other OTDR modes (Auto, Advanced and Template).
Page 99 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 100: Enabling Or Disabling The Storage Feature
Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Enabling or Disabling the Storage Feature Enabling or Disabling the Storage Feature By default, the Quick Save button is displayed in the button bar. However, if you only want to perform quick tests without having to save the results, you may prefer to hide the Quick Save button.
Page 101: 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 102 Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Enabling or Disabling the First Connector Check for Fault Finder To enable or disable the first connector check: 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.
Page 103: 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 104: Setting Trace Display Parameters
Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Setting Trace Display Parameters Setting Trace Display Parameters You can change several trace display parameters: the grid: You can display or hide the grid appearing on the graph’s background. By default, the grid is displayed. the file name in the trace display: The file name appears at the top of the trace display.
Page 105 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 106: Selecting The Distance Units
Testing Fibers in Fault Finder Mode Selecting the Distance Units 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).
Page 107 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 109: 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 110 Customizing Your OTDR Selecting the Default File Format To select the default file format: 1. From the Main Menu window, press Quick Save. 2. From the Save File dialog box, select the desired format. 3. Press OK to save your file in the new format. The next files will be saved in the new format.
Page 111: Enabling Or Disabling File Name Confirmation
Customizing Your OTDR Enabling or Disabling File Name Confirmation Enabling or Disabling File Name Confirmation By default, each time you save a file, the application prompts you to confirm the file name. The application will use a file name based on autonaming settings (see Naming Trace Files Automatically on page 24).
Page 112 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 113: Selecting The Distance Units
Customizing Your OTDR Selecting the Distance Units Selecting the Distance Units You can select the measurement units that will be used throughout the application, except for certain values such as the pulse and the wavelength. Pulse values are expressed in seconds and wavelength in meters (nanometers).
Page 114 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 115: Customizing The Acquisition Distance Range Values
Customizing Your OTDR Customizing the Acquisition Distance Range Values Customizing the Acquisition Distance Range Values Note: This function is available in Advanced mode only. If your OTDR model is FTB-7000D or later, you can customize the values associated with the Distance dial. Once the customization is complete, you are ready to set the distance range value for your test.
Page 116 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 Customize Acquisition Parameters button. 3. If your OTDR supports singlemode, multimode or filtered wavelengths, specify the desired fiber type.
Page 117: Customizing The Acquisition Time Values
Customizing Your OTDR Customizing the Acquisition Time Values Customizing the Acquisition Time Values Note: This function is available in Advanced mode only. You can customize the values associated with the Time dial. The acquisition time values represent the time during which the OTDR will average acquisitions.
Page 118 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. From the Time list, select the value you want to modify (the value will become highlighted), then press the Edit button.
Page 119: Enabling Or Disabling The Touchscreen Keyboard
Customizing Your OTDR 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 120: 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 121: 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 122: Graph View
Analyzing Traces and Events Graph View Graph View The events, that are detailed in the events table (see Events Tab on page 114), are marked by numbers along the displayed trace. Default injection level Event no. 4 Distance units Events table Some items in the trace display are always visible, while others will appear only if you choose to display them.
Page 123 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 128. You can view all of the traces, in turn, in both the Trace Info pane and the trace display with the navigation buttons.
Page 124: Linear View
Analyzing Traces and Events Linear View Linear View Note: This function is available with the optional software package only. In the linear view, the events are displayed sequentially, from left to right. Event Fiber section Each bubble represents an event. Each horizontal line that “links” two bubbles represents a fiber section.
Page 125 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 126: Summary Table
Analyzing Traces and Events Summary Table Summary Table Note: This function is available both in Advanced and Auto modes. The summary table gives, for each wavelength, the global status of the results (pass: no results exceed the thresholds or fail: at least one result exceeds the thresholds), the span loss and span ORL values.
Page 127 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 128: Events Tab
Analyzing Traces and Events Events Tab Events Tab This tab is available when the graph view and the linear view (optional) are displayed. You can view information about all detected events on a trace and fiber sections by scrolling through the events table. In graph view, when you select an event in the events table, marker A appears on the trace over the selected event.
Page 129 Analyzing Traces and Events Events Tab For each item listed in the events table, information is displayed: Type: Various symbols are used to describe different event types. For a more detailed description of symbols, see Description of Event Types on page 297. Number: Event number (a sequential number assigned by the OTDR test application) or, in parentheses, the length of a fiber section (the distance between two events).
Page 130 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. Graph Event no.
Page 131: Measure Tab
Analyzing Traces and Events Measure Tab Measure Tab The application shows two, three or four markers: a, A, B, and b, depending on the button you pressed under Results. These markers can be repositioned along the trace to calculate loss, attenuation, reflectance, and optical return loss (ORL).
Page 132: 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 133 Analyzing Traces and Events Displaying the Graph in Full Screen If you want to view a table of events once the acquisitions are complete, you must select the Events tab or activate the option to display the event table (from OTDR Setup) before switching to full-screen mode. Once all acquisitions are complete, the application will automatically switch to the defined default view (see Selecting the Default View on page 120).
Page 134: 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 135 Analyzing Traces and Events Selecting the Default View OTDR modes View for which view Remarks is available Summary table Auto This table gives, for each wavelength, the pass/fail status of Advanced the results, the span loss and span ORL values. Span length is also displayed.
Page 136: 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 118) if you want to view the event table without having to go back in normal view mode.
Page 137: Automatically Zooming In On The Fiber Span
Analyzing Traces and Events Automatically Zooming in on the Fiber Span Automatically Zooming in on the Fiber Span Note: This function is available both in Advanced and Template modes. You can set the trace display to show only the span start to the span end of the trace in full-trace view.
Page 138: 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 139 Analyzing Traces and Events Using Zoom Controls When you manually zoom in or out on a trace, the application will apply the new zoom factor and marker positions to the other traces (wavelengths) of a same file and on the reference file, if applicable. Both the zoom factor and marker positions will be saved along with the trace (same settings for all wavelengths).
Page 140 Analyzing Traces and Events 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 141 Analyzing Traces and Events Using Zoom Controls To revert to the complete graph view: Press the button. Note: If the Zoom in automatically on defined fiber span feature is selected in the OTDR setup, the application will zoom in between span start and span end.
Page 142: Setting Trace Display Parameters
Analyzing Traces and Events Setting Trace Display Parameters Setting Trace Display Parameters Once you have launched the desired trace acquisition mode (Automatic, Advanced, or Template), you can change several trace display parameters: the grid: You can display or hide the grid appearing on the graph’s background.
Page 143 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 144: Customizing The Event Table
Analyzing Traces and Events Customizing the Event Table Customizing the Event Table Note: This function is available both in Advanced and Auto modes. You can include or exclude items from the events table to better suit your needs. Note: Hiding the fiber sections will not delete these items. Fiber sections: You can display or hide fiber sections in the events table and in the linear view, depending on the types of values you want to display.
Page 145 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 146: Displaying Or Hiding A Trace
Analyzing Traces and Events Displaying or Hiding a Trace Displaying or Hiding a Trace There are two ways of displaying or hiding traces in the OTDR test application. You can view, in turn, all the trace files you have opened, including main and reference traces, as well as multiwavelength traces.
Page 147 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 148: Clearing Traces From The Display
Analyzing Traces and Events Clearing Traces from the Display Clearing Traces from the Display Note: This function is available in Advanced mode only. Note: Clearing traces from the display does not delete them from the disk. Although the test application automatically opens the last trace files used, you can clear the screen and launch new acquisitions.
Page 149 Analyzing Traces and Events Clearing Traces from the Display To clear traces from the display: 1. From the button bar, press Storage. 2. From the Storage dialog box, press Clear Main or Clear Reference. If you had already acquired or modified (but not stored) some traces, a warning message appears for each trace (even if the trace is hidden) asking you if you want to save it or not.
Page 150: 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 151 Analyzing Traces and Events Viewing and Modifying Current Trace Settings To view trace settings: Go to the Trace Info. tab. Note: Even if more than one trace is available, the Trace Info. tab only shows one at a time. To display the traces in turn, press Next Trace in the toolbar. The active trace appears in black in the trace display.
Page 152 Analyzing Traces and Events Viewing and Modifying Current Trace Settings Span ORL: ORL calculated between the span start and the span end. High resolution: High-resolution feature was selected to perform the acquisition. For more information, see Enabling the High-Resolution Feature on page 51. Helix factor: Helix for the displayed trace.
Page 153 Analyzing Traces and Events Viewing and Modifying Current Trace Settings To modify the IOR, RBS coefficient, and helix factor parameters: 1. From the main window, go to the Trace Info. tab. 2. Press the Fiber Settings button. 3. Enter the desired values for the current trace in the appropriate boxes. If you want to revert a particular item to its default value, press the Default button appearing next to this item.
Page 154 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 155: Modifying Events
Analyzing Traces and Events Modifying Events Modifying Events Note: This function is available in Advanced mode only. You can change the loss and reflectance of almost any existing event except: continuous fiber end of analysis launch level merged events span start span end In the case of a reflective event, you can also specify whether the event corresponds to an echo, a possible echo, or no echo.
Page 156 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 157 Analyzing Traces and Events Modifying Events 3. Position marker A on the event, and submarker a (to the left of marker A) as far as possible from marker A , without including the preceding event. The area between markers A and a must not include any significant variation.
Page 158 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 159: Inserting Events
Analyzing Traces and Events Inserting Events Inserting Events You can insert events in the event table manually. This could be useful, for example, if you know that there is a splice at a given location, but the analysis does not detect it because it is hidden in the noise or because the splice loss is lower than the minimum detection threshold (see Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds on page 55).
Page 160 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 161: Deleting Events
Analyzing Traces and Events Deleting Events Deleting Events Note: This function is available in Advanced mode only. Almost any event can be deleted from the events table, except: end of analysis fiber section launch level end of fiber span start span end Note: The “End-of-fiber”...
Page 162 Analyzing Traces and Events Deleting Events 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 154. To delete an event: 1.
Page 163: Changing The Attenuation Of Fiber Sections
Analyzing Traces and Events Changing the Attenuation of Fiber Sections Changing the Attenuation of Fiber Sections Note: This function is available in Advanced mode only. You can change the attenuation value of fiber sections. MPORTANT If you reanalyze a trace, all of the modifications made to the fiber sections will be lost and the events table will be re-created.
Page 164 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 167. Note: The markers serve only to set the new attenuation value. Their actual locations will not be modified.
Page 165: Setting The Analysis Detection Thresholds
Analyzing Traces and Events Setting the Analysis Detection Thresholds Setting the Analysis Detection Thresholds Note: This function is available in Advanced mode only. To optimize event detection, you can set the following analysis detection thresholds: Splice loss threshold: To display or hide small non-reflective events. Reflectance threshold: To hide false reflective events generated by noise, transform non-harmful reflective events into loss events, or detect reflective events that could be harmful to network and other...
Page 166 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 167 Analyzing Traces and Events Setting the Analysis Detection Thresholds To set the analysis detection thresholds: 1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup. 2. From the OTDR Setup dialog box, select the Analysis tab. 3. Under Analysis parameters, set the parameters. Enter the desired values in the appropriate boxes.
Page 168: 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 Analyze Data Automatically after Acquisition feature was not selected;...
Page 169 Analyzing Traces and Events Analyzing or Reanalyzing a Trace To analyze or reanalyze a trace: 1. From the main window, go to the Events tab. 2. Press the Analyze button. 3. From the Reanalyze Trace dialog box, select an item for setting the span start and end markers on the trace.
Page 170: 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 171: Enabling Or Disabling The Detection Of Reflective Ends Of Fiber
Analyzing Traces and Events Enabling or Disabling the Detection of Reflective Ends of Fiber Enabling or Disabling the Detection of Reflective Ends of Fiber By default, the application stops the analysis as soon as there is too much noise on a trace to ensure accurate measurements. However, you can configure the application to search the “noisy”...
Page 172 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 173 Analyzing Traces and Events Enabling or Disabling the Detection of Reflective Ends of Fiber MPORTANT The analysis will stop as soon as the loss of an event crosses the end-of-fiber (EoF) threshold. The application will mark the event as an end-of-fiber event. In this case, even if you selected the option, the application will not search the “noisy”...
Page 174: Swapping Traces
Analyzing Traces and Events Swapping Traces Swapping Traces Note: This function is available in Advanced mode only. Since the events table and the trace information are based on the main trace, you may want to interchange main and reference traces. When you swap traces, the application will provide a new set of events corresponding to the new main trace.
Page 175: 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 176 Analyzing Traces and Events Opening Trace Files The table below presents the possible behavior of the zoom and markers when you open traces (main or reference). If you open old OTDR traces, see the corresponding row for more information. Type of file Zoom Marker Trace that has been saved with an...
Page 177 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 180.
Page 178 Analyzing Traces and Events Opening Trace Files To open a trace file: 1. From the button bar, press Storage, then Open File. Available in Advanced mode 2. If necessary, change the location to retrieve the file that was stored. 3. Scroll through the list of files and select a trace file to open. 4.
Page 179: 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 180 Analyzing the Results Manually Selecting the Attenuation and Loss Values that Will Be Displayed To select the attenuation and loss values that will be displayed: 1. From the button bar, press OTDR Setup then go to the General tab. 2. Press the Measurement Method button. 3.
Page 181: 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 182: Getting Event Distances And Relative Powers
Analyzing the Results Manually Getting Event Distances and Relative Powers Getting Event Distances and Relative Powers The OTDR test application automatically calculates the position of an event and displays this distance in the events table. You can retrieve the position of an event as well as the distance between events manually.
Page 183: 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 184 Analyzing the Results Manually Getting Event Loss (Four-Point and Least-Square Approximation) Four-point event loss: the LSA method is used to fit a straight line to the backscatter data within the two regions defined by markers a, A and b, B, that is over the regions to the left and to the right of the event bordered by markers A and B, respectively.
Page 185 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 186 Analyzing the Results Manually Getting Event Loss (Four-Point and Least-Square Approximation) To get event loss: 1. From the main window, select the Measure tab. 2. In the Results section, press Loss. Markers a, A, B and b appear on the graph.
Page 187 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 188: Getting Attenuation (Two-Point And Least-Square Approximation)
Analyzing the Results Manually Getting Attenuation (Two-Point and Least-Square Approximation) Getting Attenuation (Two-Point and Least-Square Approximation) A two-point attenuation measurement gives the reduction in Rayleigh backscatter level as a function of distance (always expressed in dB/km to follow the standards of the fiber-optic industry) between two selected points.
Page 189 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 167.
Page 190: Getting Reflectance
Analyzing the Results Manually Getting Reflectance Getting Reflectance Reflectance is the ratio of reflected light to input light. Note: If you are testing in Real time, the reflectance value you will get is not necessarily accurate. To get reflectance: 1. From the main window, select the Measure tab. 2.
Page 191: 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 between the span start and the span end Optical return loss (ORL) refers to the total effect of multiple reflections and scattering events within a fiber-optic system.
Page 193: 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 194: Otdr Trace File Compatibility
Managing Trace Files from the OTDR Test Application OTDR Trace File Compatibility OTDR Trace File Compatibility The table presented hereafter shows the compatibility between the format of a specific trace and the software that you may use to open that trace. Symbols used in the table Meaning Fully compatible...
Page 195 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 196: Copying, Moving, Renaming, Or Deleting Trace Files
Managing Trace Files from the OTDR Test Application 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 ToolBox CE. For more information, refer to your unit help.
Page 197: Creating And Printing Trace Reports
13 Creating and Printing Trace Reports For future reference, you can add notes on the location of the tested fiber, type of job performed and general comments related to a trace in trace reports. You can specify which information must be included in your printed documents.
Page 198: Adding Information To The Test Results
Creating and Printing Trace Reports Adding Information to the Test Results 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. The information you enter is saved only for the currently open trace file.
Page 199 Creating and Printing Trace Reports Adding Information to the Test Results To add information to the test results: 1. From the button bar, once a trace has been acquired or reopened, press Report. 2. Enter the desired information. Note: The information in the Date, Time, Unit and Serial no. boxes is provided by the application and cannot be edited.
Page 200: Printing A Report
Creating and Printing Trace Reports Printing 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 201 Creating and Printing Trace Reports Printing a Report The following table shows the various items that can appear on a report, depending on the test mode (Auto, Advanced or Template) that is selected. Auto Advanced Template Item appearing on the report mode mode mode...
Page 202 Creating and Printing Trace Reports Printing a Report Auto Advanced Template Item appearing on the report mode mode mode 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. Test and cable setup for main and reference traces: file name, OTDR model, software version, wavelength, distance, IOR, RBS, acquisition time, pulse width, and...
Page 203 Creating and Printing Trace Reports Printing a Report Auto Advanced Template Item appearing on the report mode mode mode Pass/Fail thresholds: loss, reflectance, fiber section attenuation thresholds as they are defined in OTDR setup, under Event table. Note: Selecting this item will not highlight the failed results in the report.
Page 204 Creating and Printing Trace Reports Printing a Report To print reports: 1. From the button bar, press Print. 2. From the Print dialog box, select the report characteristics. Select the Print all traces item to print all traces (wavelengths) from the current file (available in Auto and Advanced modes only).
Page 205: 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 206 Using the OTDR as a Light Source or VFL To use your OTDR as a source: 1. Clean the connectors properly (see Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers on page 22). 2. Connect one end of the fiber under test 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 207 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 208 Using the OTDR as a Light Source or VFL 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.
Page 209: Analyzing Traces With The Bidirectional Analysis Application
15 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Note: The OTDR Bidirectional application is available from the Programs tab in ToolBox CE. 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 210 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Bidirectional analysis is the recommended method for splice loss measurements on singlemode fibers by the Telecommunications Industry Association (test procedure EIA/TIA FOTP-61 Measurement of Fiber or Cable Attenuation Using an OTDR). This method removes the so-called “gainers” (increase in the optical power) and exaggerated losses and provides accurate measurements.
Page 211: 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 ToolBox CE, go to the Programs tab. 2.
Page 212 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Starting and Exiting the Bidirectional Analysis Application The main window is displayed. To create, open, or save bidirectional measurement files. To create reports in .html format, or to export A→B and B→A traces (in .trc format). To define display settings, thresholds and to configure options related to spans.
Page 213: 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 214 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 215 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Creating Bidirectional Measurement Files Note: The information such as the Cable ID and Fiber ID does not need to be the same in the A→B and B→A files for the application to be able to generate the bidirectional measurement.
Page 216 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Creating Bidirectional Measurement Files To create a bidirectional measurement file: 1. From the Main Menu, select File > Create. 2. Select the files to open. 2a. Press the Browse button, on the right of the A→B file path box. 2b.
Page 217 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Creating Bidirectional Measurement Files 2c. Press the Browse button, on the right of the B→A file path box. 2d. Select the second file (ensure that it is highlighted) and press OK. Note: The application will keep in memory the path to your B→A trace file. The next time you create a bidirectional measurement, the application will suggest this path by default.
Page 218: 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 219: Displaying Traces And Bidirectional Measurement
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Displaying Traces and Bidirectional Measurement Displaying Traces and Bidirectional Measurement You can view, in turn, the bidirectional measurement as well as the unidirectional trace files. When you create a bidirectional measurement using multiwavelength files, you can also navigate through the different wavelengths.
Page 220 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 221: Viewing Results
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Viewing Results Viewing Results The application shows the results of the A→B and B→A traces according to the thresholds defined in the Bidirectional OTDR application. You can view the corresponding graphs (see Graph View on page 208) and tables of events (see Events Tab on page 211), as well as obtain more information about the status of the bidirectional measurement and/or A→B and B→A traces (see Summary Table).
Page 222 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 211), are marked by numbers along the displayed trace. Event no.
Page 223 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Viewing Results Summary Table The summary table gives, for each wavelength and at each direction, the status of the results (pass: no results exceed the thresholds, or fail: at least one result exceeds the thresholds) and the span loss values. A global status for the bidirectional measurement is also available.
Page 224 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 225 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Viewing Results Events Tab You can view information about all detected events on a trace and fiber sections by scrolling through the events table. In graph view, when you select an event in the events table, marker A appears on the trace over the selected event.
Page 226 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 227 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Viewing Results Event type detected (see Description of Event Types on page 297) Unidirectional traces Event number Position: distance between the OTDR and the measured event, or between the event and the beginning of the fiber span Length of a fiber section (distance between two events).
Page 228 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 229 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Viewing Results Trace Info. Tab You can view information about the bidirectional measurement as well as the A→B and B→A traces (see Displaying Traces and Bidirectional Measurement on page 205). However, you can only modify the analysis settings for the current A→B and B→A traces, not for the bidirectional measurement (see Modifying Trace Analysis Settings on page 255).
Page 230 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 between span start and span end.
Page 231 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Viewing Results Information specific to the A→B or B→A trace is also displayed: Range: Acquisition range. Duration: Duration of the acquisition. Span ORL: ORL calculated between the span start and the span end. High resolution: Indicates whether or not the acquisitions were performed using the high-resolution feature.
Page 232: 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 233 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Reanalyzing Traces and Regenerating the Bidirectional Measurement To reanalyze traces and regenerate bidirectional measurement: 1. From the main window, select the Edit tab. 2. Under Direction, select the desired option, depending on which trace you want to reanalyze.
Page 234: 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 235 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Modifying the Alignment of Unidirectional Traces You can even set the span end after the detected end of fiber. This could be useful if you suspect problems in this section of the trace or if the actual end of fiber seems to be located in the noise (peak detected at the end of the fiber span).
Page 236 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 237 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Modifying the Alignment of Unidirectional Traces 4. Press Set as Span Start or Set as Span End to set the span start or span end marker on the appropriate event in the trace display. MPORTANT To keep a set fiber span during trace reanalysis, activate the corresponding option (see Saving the Span-Start and Span-End...
Page 238: 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 239 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Using Zoom Controls When you zoom in or out on an event, the application keeps the zoom on this event until you select another event or change the zoom position. In the case of a multiwavelength file, you can select a different event for each wavelength (for example, event 2 at 1550 nm and event 5 at 1625 nm).
Page 240 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 241 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Using Zoom Controls To automatically zoom in on the selected event: 1. From the main window, select the Graph tab. 2. Select the Events tab. 3. Under Direction, select the desired option. 4. From the events table, select the desired event. 5.
Page 242: 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 243 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Using Markers to Edit Events Drag markers to the desired location directly on the graph using the stylus or your finger. Use the selection dial (located on the front of the unit). Use the single-arrow buttons. Enter a distance value in the Position box, and press Distance between Power at A...
Page 244: 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 245 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Inserting Events To insert an event: 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.
Page 246 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 247 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Inserting Events 6. Once you have determined the location, from the Type list, select the desired event type. Loss and reflectance values Loss and reflectance are calculated automatically, based on the position of the markers. Reflectance values are only displayed for reflective event types (reflective, echo, and possible echo).
Page 248: 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 249 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Modifying Events To modify an event: 1. From the main window, select the Edit tab. 2. Under Direction, select either A→B or B→A. 3. Select the event you want to modify. Position of marker A 4.
Page 250 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 251 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Modifying Events 6. If desired, from the Type list, select a new event type. Loss and reflectance values Loss and reflectance are calculated automatically, based on the position of the markers. Reflectance values are only displayed for reflective event types (reflective, echo, and possible echo).
Page 252: 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 253 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Deleting Events To delete an event: 1. From the main window, select the Edit tab. 2. Under Direction, select either A→B or B→A. 3. Select the event you want to delete. 4. Press Delete. Note: If the Delete button is not available, that means you cannot delete events of this type.
Page 254: 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 255 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Changing the Attenuation of Fiber Sections To modify the attenuation of a fiber section: 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.
Page 256 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 228. Note: The markers serve only to set the new attenuation value. Their actual locations will not be modified.
Page 257: Setting General Parameters
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Setting General Parameters Setting General Parameters You can set preferences such as: Distance unit: You can select the measurement units that will be used throughout the application, except for certain values such as the pulse and the wavelength.
Page 258 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 259 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Setting General Parameters To set the general parameters: 1. From the Main Menu, select Setup, then select the General tab. 2. Select the boxes corresponding to the item you want to display on the graph.
Page 260: 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 261 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Customizing the Events Table Injection level: In the events table, the injection level is represented by icon. In the Att. column, the injection level value for that event is identified by the @ symbol. You can hide the injection level value and symbol from the Att.
Page 262 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 263: Saving The Span-Start And Span-End Information
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Saving the Span-Start and Span-End Information Saving the Span-Start and Span-End Information Saving the modified span-start and span-end information allows you to reapply the current span start and span end to a unidirectional trace when your reanalyze this trace.
Page 264: 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 265 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds The following table provides the default, minimum and maximum thresholds. Test Default Minimum Maximum Splice loss (dB) 1.000 0.015 5.000 Connector loss (dB) 1.000 0.015 5.000 Reflectance (dB) –40.00 –80.0 Fiber section attenuation (dB/km) 0.400 0.000...
Page 266 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 267 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Setting Pass/Fail Thresholds 4b. Select the boxes corresponding to the wavelengths for which you want to use the same thresholds. Note: You can use the Select All button to quickly select all boxes at the same time.
Page 268 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 269: Modifying Trace Analysis Settings
Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Modifying Trace Analysis Settings Modifying Trace Analysis Settings You can view the current trace parameters for the bidirectional measurement as well as for the A→B and B→A traces (see Trace Info. Tab on page 215). However, you can only modify the analysis settings for the current A→B and B→A traces, not for the bidirectional measurement.
Page 270 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 271 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Modifying Trace Analysis Settings You can always revert to factory settings. The fiber settings will be reset according to the current trace and the event detection thresholds will return to fixed default values. To modify the trace analysis settings of the selected trace: 1.
Page 272 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 273 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Modifying Trace Analysis Settings To revert to default settings: 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. 4.
Page 274: 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 275 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Saving Traces To save bidirectional files: 1. From the Main Menu, select File > Save. 2. From the Save As dialog box, select a folder or create one to save your file. Go up to parent folder Create a folder 3.
Page 276: 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 277 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Exporting Unidirectional Traces from Bidirectional Files To export unidirectional traces from a bidirectional file: 1. Create a bidirectional measurement (see Creating Bidirectional Measurement Files on page 199). Open an already existing file (see Opening Existing Bidirectional Measurement Files on page 204).
Page 278: 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 267).
Page 279 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Adding Information to the Test Results To add information to the test results: 1. From the main window, select the Trace Info. tab. 2. Under Direction, select A→B or B→A. 3. Press the Trace Identification button. OTDR...
Page 280 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Adding Information to the Test Results 4. Enter the desired information. Note: The information in the Model and Serial number boxes is provided by the application and cannot be edited. 5. Press Apply to confirm your changes, then OK to return to the main window.
Page 281: 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 282 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Creating Reports Note: The application will keep in memory the path that you use to save your report. The next time you want to save a report, the application will suggest this path by default. To create a report: 1.
Page 283 Analyzing Traces with the Bidirectional Analysis Application Creating Reports To view a report from your unit: 1. Exit the OTDR Bidirectional application. 2. From ToolBox CE, open File Manager. 3. Go to the folder in which you have saved your report. 4.
Page 285: 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 286: Cleaning Eui Connectors
Maintenance Cleaning EUI Connectors Cleaning EUI Connectors Regular cleaning of EUI connectors will help maintain optimum performance. There is no need to disassemble the unit. MPORTANT If any damage occurs to internal connectors, the module casing will have to be opened and a new calibration will be required. To clean EUI connectors: 1.
Page 287 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 288: 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 289 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.
Page 290 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 291 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 292 Maintenance Verifying Your OTDR To measure the dynamic range: 1. Connect the OTDR as indicated below. Other configurations are possible, such as the one explained in the section on how to determine measurement range, if you use the shortest fiber length from that setup.
Page 293 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 294 Maintenance Verifying Your OTDR To determine the measurement range (singlemode models only): 1. Connect the OTDR as indicated below. Other configurations are possible, but the fiber should have several sections longer than 2 km, with no loss greater than 8 dB and with the average attenuation not exceeding 1 dB/km.
Page 295 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 296: 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 297: 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 299: 17 Troubleshooting
17 Troubleshooting Solving Common Problems 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”...
Page 300 “normal”. If you still see the message about live fiber error even if no fiber is connected to the OTDR, contact EXFO. Never connect a live fiber to the OTDR port without a proper setup. Any incoming optical power ranging from –65 dBm to –40 dBm will affect...
Page 301 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 302: 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 303: 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 305: 18 Warranty
EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering 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. During the warranty period, EXFO will, at its discretion, repair, replace,...
Page 306: 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 307: 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 308: 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 309: A Technical Specifications
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. All specifications valid at 23 °C ± 2 °C with an FC/PC connector, unless otherwise specified.
Page 310 Technical Specifications GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS 7200D 7300E-B/7400E-B/7500E-B/7600E-B Distance range (km) 1.25, 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, 160, 260 1.25, 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, 160, 260, 400 Pulse width (ns) 5, 10, 30, 100, 275, 1000, 2500, 5, 10, 30, 100, 275, 1000, 2500, 10 000, 20 000 10 000, 20 000 Linearity (dB/dB)
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
Description of Event Types Span Start Span Start The Span Start of a trace is the event that marks the beginning of the fiber span. By default, the Span Start is placed on the first event of a tested fiber (typically the first connector of the OTDR itself).
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
Description of Event Types End of Analysis End of Analysis Reflected power (dB) Distance (km) This event indicates that the pulse width used did not provide enough dynamic range to get to the end of the fiber. The analysis ended before reaching the end of the fiber because the signal-to-noise ratio was too low.
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
Description of Event Types Reflective Event Reflective Event Reflected Clipped level power (dB) Reflective events Distance (km) Reflective events appear as spikes in the fiber trace. They are caused by an abrupt discontinuity in the index of refraction. Reflective events cause a significant portion of the energy initially launched into the fiber to be reflected back toward the source.
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
Description of Event Types Launch Level Launch Level Reflected power (dB) Launch level event position Second event Launch level Linear area Distance (km) This event indicates the level of the signal launched into the fiber. The figure above shows how the launch level is measured. A straight line is plotted using least-square approximation to fit all trace points in the linear area between the first and second detected events.
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 Reflective Event
Description of Event Types Merged Reflective Event Merged Reflective Event Reflected power (dB) Reflective events Point A Δ Total loss ( Point B Merged Reflective event position Distance (km) This symbol denotes a reflective event combined with one or more other reflective events.
Page 321 Description of Event Types Merged Reflective Event The total loss (Δ dB) produced by the events is measured by plotting two straight lines. The first line is plotted by fitting, through least-square approximation, trace points in the linear area preceding the first event.
Page 322: Echo
Description of Event Types Echo Echo Reflected power (dB) OTDR connector Second connector End connector Echo Lightwave travel Distance (km) This symbol indicates that a reflective event has been detected after the end of the fiber. In the example above, the launched pulse travels up to the end connector and is reflected back toward the OTDR.
Page 323: 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 325: Index
Index Index analyzing traces......... 157 application, main window ......198 ***** indication ........176 application, starting ........19 Att. column in events table..115, 212, 213 attenuation fiber section ........55, 250 accessing source........191 fiber-section threshold ....55, 250 accuracy, trace ..........
Page 326 Index buttons, trace editing in events table..116 dial buttons, zoom. see controls, zoom Distance ..........47 moving ..........49 Pulse ............47 Time............47 calibration disappearing marker........167 certificate..........282 displaying interval ..........282 fiber sections ....... 130, 246 caution fiber span..........
Page 327 LSA .. 169 description........... 208 Fresnel reflection ........... 8 locating event......116, 214 front panel, cleaning ......... 271 trace editing buttons ......116 FTB-200 trace format......... 179 events, view ..........110 EXFO universal interface. see EUI OTDR...
Page 328 Index loss average for fiber span......137 General tab ......... 90, 128, 244 average splice ......137, 216 generating reports ........186 connector ........55, 250 graph view ........108, 208 connector, threshold...... 55, 250 grid display ......... 90, 128, 244 cumulative for fiber span .....
Page 329 Index mounting EUI connector adapter ....21 Template mode........64 multiwavelength trace color in display..109 trace display......90, 128, 244 multiwavelength trace file pass/fail ........112, 113, 209 bidirectional analysis ......199 pass/fail message display ......57 displaying ..........132 pass/fail test disabling ........
Page 330 293 service centers ........... 294 setting technical specifications......295 fiber span ..........60 technical support........288 pass/fail thresholds ......55, 250 temperature for storage ......271 shipping to EXFO ........293 signal-to-noise ratio ........48 FTB-7000 Series...
Page 331 Index Template mode time, custom values........103 acquiring the reference trace....66 timer............19 acquiring traces ........68 total loss in Trace Info. tab ......137 applying parameters to other traces ..64 touchscreen keyboard, activating ..89, 105 description..........63 trace restrictions..........
Page 332 Index end-of-fiber threshold ..138, 217, 256 view fiber type used........137 graph ........... 108, 208 helix factor......138, 217, 255 linear............ 110 hiding traces........132 summary......112, 113, 209 IOR ........138, 217, 255 visual fault locator. see VFL length ..........
Page 333 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 334 MARKING REQUIREMENTS Product Environmental protection use period (years) Logo This Exfo product EXFO Battery If applicable.
Page 335 Beijing New Century Hotel Office Tower, Beijing 100044 P. R. CHINA Room 1754-1755, No. 6 Southern Capital Tel.: +86 (10) 6849 2738 · Fax: +86 (10) 6849 2662 Gym Road © 2009 EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in Canada (2009-09)

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Ftb-7000 series Ftb-7000c Ftb-7000d Ftb-7000b-er

EXFO FTB-7000B 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 and Printing Trace 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

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Summary of Contents for EXFO FTB-7000B