Operation Manual

Testing Fibers

38 IDEAL

Testing in Auto Mode

The application will automatically evaluate the best settings according to

the fiber link currently connected to the unit (in less than 5 seconds).

By default, fiber characteristics are evaluated each time you start a test.

This is particularly useful if you often have to test fiber links of different

lengths.

If you prefer, you can set your unit to keep the same settings (range and

pulse) for all acquisitions. This could be useful if you need to test several

similar fibers (same length) within the same cable. It is always possible to

reset the fiber settings later.

If you intend to test at multimode wavelengths, carefully read Launch

Conditions for Multimode Measurements on page 49.

To acquire traces in Auto mode:

1. Clean the connectors properly (see Cleaning and Connecting Optical

Fibers on page 22).

2. Connect a launch fiber between the device under test and the OTDR

port. If necessary, set the launch fiber length (see Setting Analysis

Parameters on page 28).

If your unit is equipped with two OTDR ports, ensure that you connect

the fiber to the appropriate port (OTDR SM, OTDR MM, or

OTDR SM Live for filtered wavelength).

CAUTION

Never connect a live fiber to the OTDR SM or OTDR MM port. Any

incoming signal greater than –40 dBm will affect the OTDR

acquisition. Any incoming signal greater than –20 dBm could

damage your OTDR permanently.