LANTEK User Manual - Ideal Industries

Chapter 5
Fiber Optics Cable Field Calibration and Testing
PERFORMING A FIBER AUTOTEST
Autotest performs comprehensive tests using programmed testing limits. An overall
pass or fail is displayed along with individual test results.
Fiber autotesting can be performed in either Multimode (in accordance with the
TIA/EIA-526-14A Standards) or Singlemode (in accordance with the TIA/EIA-526-7
Standards).
Fiber Testing (Singlemode and Multimode)
There are four types of test that can be performed: Duplex Length, Loopback Length,
Loopback Attenuation and Dual Fiber Attenuation.
Field calibration must be completed prior to performing tests. A field calibration is also
recommended every time there is a change to the launch cables, fiber cable type,
adapters, or when the power is turned OFF or ON for either of the units.
‣ The attached adapters of the handset units should be allowed to warm up for a
minimum of 5 minutes to ensure accuracy.
‣ The launch cables of the same fiber type should be the same as the fiber to be
tested. Position unattached launch cable leads on a flat surface. Allow the fiber
to relax but not dangle in the air.
SETUP & CALIBRATION FOR LOOPBACK TESTING (SINGLE HANDSET)
Loopback testing allows testing fiber links using only the display handset. This type of
test is convenient for testing short links or patch cords since the use of a single
handset is less cumbersome than dual handsets. When loopback mode is used, only
one wavelength is measured. Additionally the length result is the round trip distance.
Remember that when testing a two-fiber link, the actual length will be half the
reported length.
Field calibration for loopback testing requires only the LANTEK display handset, and
sets the reference power level for attenuation measurements.
1. Attach the desired FIBERTEK module to the display handset. Choose Fiber from the
Ready screen.
2. Select the single wavelength test that matches the module attached to the
handset.
3. Select a loss budget as described earlier in the manual.
4. Select the Field Calibration option from the Ready Screen.
5. Connect one end of the reference cord to the display handset. Connect the
opposite ends together with a coupler and begin calibration by pressing F1.
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