Fiber Optic Measurement
Necessity for the application of fiber optic measurement technology
Here you will find a range of useful devices that you can use, for example, to measure fibre optic cables when installing your fibre optic network. Fibre optic measurement technology encompasses not only the measurement of fibre attenuation, but also visual inspections and signal strength measurements. We offer a comprehensive range of suitable fibre optic measurement devices, enabling you to determine all key measurement values with ease.Unterkategorien
The need for fibre-optic measurement technology
Fibre optics is a popular transmission medium not only in communications technology but also in other applications, particularly in terms of data rates and range. Various fibre-optic measurement devices are used to test the functionality and reliability of the system.
Reasons for measuring fibre-optic cables include, for example:
- Documenting continuity
- Identifying the components used (transceivers and SFPs have different ranges and vary in price when purchased)
- Power measurement (to prevent the transceiver from being damaged by excessively high power)
- Determining whether and what type of attenuation is required, or how much attenuation exists in existing connections.
The following devices, for example, are used in fibre-optic measurement technology
We offer the most important fibre-optic measurement instruments in our shop, together with the appropriate measurement accessories.
The most commonly used fibre-optic measurement instruments include, amongst others:
- VFL (Visual Fault Locator) for visually checking continuity by injecting light. These devices, which utilise laser technology, can quickly locate faults in existing fibre-optic cables, as cable faults are visually indicated by a clearly visible light spot due to the refraction of light.
- Power meter for determining the exact signal strength. It measures the difference between the strength of the transmitted and received signals, thereby quickly and easily detecting connection faults such as overmodulation and faulty cables.
- The light source is used to inject light into the cable at a fixed (or selectable) wavelength, so that attenuation can then be measured using a power meter.
- An OTDR (Optical Time Domain Reflectometer) combines various functions. This allows different cable faults, signal losses and other problems to be quickly detected. We stock a popular Smart OTDR featuring a power meter, visual fault locator and light source, ensuring you are fully equipped for all measurements. Its compact design, colour touchscreen and wide range of functions make this device one of our bestsellers.
Fibre-optic measurement technology for detecting faults and signal losses
Transmitted signals may lose strength unintentionally or be intentionally attenuated. A signal is considered attenuated if the optical output power is weaker than the input power. This optical attenuation can be caused, for example, by absorption or scattering, but also by physical stress on the cable (such as excessive bending). In cases where the power is too high – as is often the case in single-mode systems – the receiver power can be intentionally increased using an attenuator to prevent damage to technical components (transceivers, SFPs).
Buy fibre-optic measurement equipment and other accessories online now
We help you to install your network with ease and offer a comprehensive range of fibre-optic measurement equipment and accessories. These high-quality, robust devices are easy to use and come in a practical, compact design for easy transport.
You’ll also find a variety of fibre-optic cables, patch cables, transceivers (400G transceivers) with data rates of up to 400 GB/s, and other useful accessories.
Take advantage of our volume discounts, expert advice, our handy online glossary for quickly looking up technical terms, and our exceptionally fast delivery: if you order online before 4 pm from Monday to Friday, we’ll dispatch your order the very same day!
Please select the items you require now and feel free to contact us at any time if you have any queries or would like some advice.
Frequently asked questions
This involves testing all equipment, processes and test standards for fibre-optic components. All network components are subjected to mechanical and optical tests for safety and functionality reasons. These are supplemented by transmission tests, which can determine and verify the performance of the network.
The guidelines for testing the network are derived from various warranty requirements and industry standards. These require performance to be monitored and checked. Such regular checks are necessary because fibre-optic networks are particularly sensitive and react even to the slightest damage or contamination. It is often connectors with even a slight build-up of dirt that cause faults throughout the entire network.
A wide range of methods are used here, each relating to different aspects of the optical fibres. The following tests are carried out: fibre end-face inspection, fibre continuity testing, optical power level measurement and the measurement of optical attenuation in the optical fibres. Attenuation testing, in particular, is carried out frequently so that faults can be detected and rectified as early as the installation stage.
