Use Of Launch Boxes / Dead Zone Eliminators For OTDR Testing

 Use Of Launch Boxes / Dead Zone Eliminators For OTDR Testing

Optical time domain reflectometer, or OTDR, is a vital fiber optic testing tool. An OTDR is based on the principle of light backscattering. It features light-based technology to analyze the optical fiber performance. With the help of an OTDR, one can test the amount of light loss and figure out the distortions, breaks, splices, and connectors in the network. Every OTDR has a "dead zone”, and it can impact the testing outcome. The dead zone requires the best management solution with an appropriate measure. One can overcome the limitations of an OTDR dead zone with the help of an OTDR launch box. 

About the OTDR launch box

What do you know about an OTDR launch box? It is also called a dead zone box, pulse suppressor, fiber ring, fiber optic launch cable, etc. An OTDR launch box can minimize the impacts of OTDR dead zone during fiber optic testing with optimal functionality. 

Dead zone in an OTDR - The dead zone of OTDR is created by a high return level of reflection. The dead zone is affected by the pulse width, and it might extend several meters from the actual location of the OTDR. As a result, the receiver of the OTDR may not have enough time to settle. An OTDR launch box is a long spool of optical fiber inserted between the fiber and the OTDR. 

The apt ways to use the OTDR launch box

An OTDR launch box features a unique design, and it is a durable solution. The box has a long spool of optical fiber and contains a pigtail on either end. One of these pigtails is for input, and it is used to connect with the OTDR. The pigtail on the opposite end is for output, and it is essential to connect with the optical fiber getting tested. Connect the input and output end to the corresponding port. The launch box can test the attenuation of the fiber in the network. The operation is convenient, but it needs careful handling. One can obtain an accurate test result with the OTDR launch box. Among the various critical aspects related to the launch box, the length of the cable makes a difference. It must be long enough to cover the entire dead zone. OTDR launch box is similar to the structure of the fiber optic cables, and it has different types. 

Selecting the apt OTDR launch box

The selection of the OTDR launch box makes the difference. It is a critical decision, and one must maintain the best approach while selecting fiber patch cable. Consider various aspects, including the fiber type, connector type on the pigtails, and the polishing technique of the connectors. Apart from these, the length of the optical fiber of the OTDR launch box deserves special attention. The optical fiber of the launch box needs to be long, and the fiber length must be more than that of the dead zone. The OTDR launch box and pigtail cords require special mention to ensure the ideal functionality. It helps the tester measure the loss and reflectance of the connectors in the cable network. OTDR launch and pigtail cords need the best structural design to ensure backscattering of light. One can find expert solutions and industrially adept solutions by reviewing the top options. The experts recommend the use of launch and tail cords while pursuing an OTDR measurement. Additionally, one can use the launch or pigtail cord compensation function to eliminate the lengths of the optic fibers from the OTDR measurements. Simply put, the tail cord in use must feature similar characteristics to those of an OTDR launch cord.

About the launch fiber – Know the vital aspects.

An OTDR launch fiber is found on a small spool or within a “launch box”. The fiber is used to develop the ideal conditions for testing an optical fiber line for faults. The testing method avoids undesirable variations in the measurement results. Using the launch fiber will help overcome the blind spots or Dead Zone of the efficient OTDR. An OTDR launch fiber provides an accurate outcome for time and distance essential for the OTDR. One can use it to effectively review and measure the prime characteristics of the fiber getting tested.  

Rounding up

Obtain an end-to-end overview of an Optical Time Domain Reflectometer before making a choice for testing requirements. It is an optical measurement instrument, and the testing solutions help detect faults, splices, and distinct bends in the fiber optic cable. Learning about the various facets related to the dead zone of an OTDR can improve the functionality of the network. Get accurate testing results and solutions by learning details about the fiber optic cable network. The testing solutions have improved with different testing techniques and tools. Make the right choice by connecting to a manufacturer with the best fiber optic testing tools.