Return Loss Testing

Video: How to Test Optical Return Loss & Insertion Loss using OP940-CSW and OPL-CLX

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by Alex Test
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Reference and Test ILRL with OP940 CSW and OPL CLX

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How to Test Optical Return Loss & Insertion Loss with OptoTest OP940-CSW

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We are going to run through a full reference and test sequence with the OP940-CSW and OPL-CLX.

We’re going to start by connecting up our reference cable, which historically with the rack mount 12 or 24 channel OP940 would require a fanout cable. But now with this in the compact size, we just have a straight MTP/MPO connector on the inside here and we’re going to mate a 12 fiber MPO to MPO cable straight to the front panel.

Lift the flap here and just connect that right up. And we’ll leave it there for now while we launch CLX.

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AN-143 Insertion Loss and Return Loss Testing of Short Cables and Assemblies (including TOSA and cassettes)

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by Alex Test
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AN-143 Insertion Loss and Return Loss Testing of Short Cables and Assemblies (including TOSA and cassettes)

Overview

As fiber optic infrastructure and components are designed more densely and more compactly, patch cords, cassettes, and optical subassembly cables have followed suit by becoming shorter and shorter. These short cables, which can sometimes be just 20cm in length, present certain problems for testing return loss (RL). Most RL meters, whether pulse-based or Optical Continuous Wave Reflectometer (OCWR) based, have difficulty accurately measuring the return loss of these cables. Often, the return loss from the back connector of the device under test interferes with the measurement of the front connector.

MTP saver cable
Figure 1: Short MTP®/MPO - MTP®/MPO cable
AN143 Cassette
Figure 2: LC breakout cassette
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How You Accurately Test Performance of Hybrid Cables Tutorial

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by Kate Torrence
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Hybrid Cable diagram

 

Hybrid Cable – Simplex

 

Hybrid Cable Solution Sheet  SOL-001Rev.A

Fiber patch cables, also known as patch cord or jumper cables, are fiber optic cables that are terminated with connectors on both ends. When the connector types on each end are different, the cable is aptly dubbed a HYBRID CABLE. These hybrid cables can serve to link otherwise incompatible infrastructure in existing fiber systems, such as those found in networks or data centers. They can be used to connect newer racks to legacy hardware, in distribution hubs to branch lines from high density panels to the nodes they serve, or to connect between devices from different manufacturers.
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Bidirectional Fiber Testing on a Duplex-LC Cable

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by Alex Test
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Bidirectional ILRL Duplex-LC Test video image

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Bidirectional Fiber Testing of LC Cable for Optical Insertion Loss and Return Loss

The OP940 and OP721 form the ideal bidirectional fiber testing system for multichannel bidirectional insertion loss and return loss testing. The increased demand for more efficient IL and RL testing on multifiber cables, such as duplex LCs, MTP cables, and MTP fanout cables has led to an increased interest in this type of measurement. Additionally, this type of test is ideal for cables that require a two or three cable reference method, such as harsh environment connectors like 38999 and other Neutrik’s OpticalCON. In this video, we demonstrate how to perform this test on a duplex LC cable in OPL-Max.

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Switches, Lossy Components, and the Need for External Reflectance Standards

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by Alex Test
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This article focuses on RL measurement setups that are prone to introducing testing errors. Ways to mitigate these errors are discussed. Some errors are unavoidable; therefore, steps for correcting them out or reducing them are also described here. Continue reading →

Ensuring Accurate Return Loss Measurements

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by Alex Test
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OptoTest equipment provides the most accurate Return Loss measurements in the industry. In this presentation you will learn more about the elements that make that possible and things to keep in mind to ensure optimal performance.

Ensuring Accurate Return Loss Measurements

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Testing Insertion Loss and Return Loss of an MTP/MPO Cable in OPL-MAX

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by Alex Test
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In this video we will go through the process of testing insertion loss and return loss of an MTP cable in OPL-MAX. We will review both the cable and software setup for the standard test configuration, as well as the test process.

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Testing Insertion Loss and Return Loss of a Simplex Cable in OPL-MAX

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by Alex Test
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In this video we will go through the process of testing insertion loss and return loss of a simplex cable in OPL-Max. This standard setup allows us to explore the features and functions of OPL-Max that operators are likely to encounter day to day.

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