Fiber optics convert electronic/binary information into optical signals through digital light pulses. The signal moves through a long fiber optic cable until the end of the line where it is converted back into its original electronic/binary form that is readable by computer systems. Optical fiber is made of a thin glass rod that is surrounded by a protective plastic coating. The light that is injected into the core of the glass fiber will follow the physical path through the internal reflection of light. It is necessary to constantly evolve fiber testing processes in order to ensure the integrity of the optical signals stays intact through complex networks.
There are two types of fiber based on the way light travels through it, multimode and singlemode. Multimode fiber is easier when coupling to other light sources and fiber. It also has a more simplified splicing process and lower cost transmitters. On the other hand, it has a high optic loss and a low bandwidth limit for short distances. Singlemode fiber has a much higher performance in regard to bandwidth and optic loss. Due to the small core size of singlemode fiber, more expensive transmitters and alignment systems are needed. Even with the downside of the more expensive equipment needed when working with singlemode fiber, it remains the best fiber optic solution.
Dust, water, and oil are just a few of the main contaminants that a fiber end-face comes in contact with. These contaminants disrupt the flow of light and can cause network outages. It is essential to use fiber inspection tools and cleaning kits to avoid and resolve these disruptions.
Avalon offers a wide variety of fiber inspection and cleaning equipment from top manufacturers (VIAVI, EXFO, ODM, and more) for rent or purchase. Test With Confidence®.
Used in conjunction with an OTDR, the SPSB covers the OTDR's dead zone, enabling loss measurement on the first and last connections of a fiber under test.
The VF 610 is a high output visible laser designed to locate and identify faults in fiber optic cables. This red laser is also useful when identifying breaks in jumper cables, patch panels and other cable splice areas.
The FTB-2, available in a standard or Pro model, is the most compact solution on the market for multi-rate, multi-technology, multi-service testing, delivering all the power of a high-end platform in a conveniently sized, go-anywhere field-testing tool.
This non-certified training course instructs students on the best practices for FTTA testing. We train in San Diego and Dallas or at your location! *Cost based on meeting minimum number of course enrollment.
The portable B5-size Network Master Pro™ MT1040A for 400G has customized expandability with easy operation. Installing the OTDR measurement module supports optical fiber continuity tests.
The visual fault locator (VFL) is an essential tool that quickly and easily locates problem areas in fiber cables. By pinpointing the exact location of fiber damage, technicians can diagnose, troubleshoot, and fix the problem efficiently. VIAVI Solutions offers two unique versions of the VFL that are economically priced and ergonomically designed for comfortable handling and portability.
The VIAVI OLP-3xV2 are a range of broadband power meters (PM) for quick, easy, and convenient measurement of optical power levels and loss in fiber networks.