Throwing light on Fiber Optic Testing

An optical Fiber is one of the most efficient modes of data transmission; it is a thread like structure and transmits data in the form of light waves. For efficient working of an optical Fiber it must be timely checked and tested. A Fiber optic tester is a device used to detect any defect that could harm the transmission efficiency of an optical Fiber. An optical Fiber can face two defects contamination and damage the first one refers to the deposition of dust gum or oils in the transmission path and the latter refers to the cracks or pits formed in the Fiber.

These defects can be detected using a Fiber optic tester there are three different types of Fiber optic testers available, first are the continuity testers they use a light source that transmits light from one of the Fiber and detect the light at the other end, these testers just tell whether the Fiber is defected or not, they do not provide information about the defect. Next is the insertion loss testing it provides information about the total loss in the Fiber per km and also highlights the bends, splices and links in the Fiber. Last is the OTDR it stands for optical time domain reflectometer, it provides complete information about the Fiber its length splice losses, connector losses and Fiber defects and stores the information electronically. It is one of the most advanced Fiber optic testers.

After completing the Fiber optic testing the defects must be removed and this is done by cleaning Fiber optic cables by using special solvents like isopropyl alcohol or by using Fiber specific solvents air blasting can also be used for cleaning Fiber optics. All these things are called Fiber optic tools and are a part of Fiber optic testing equipment.

Clean and clear fiber optic

When it comes to fiber optic cleaner there is none better than the AFC 3000, a patented ferrule cleaning system. AEFOS, the company that manufactures this equipment for the fiber optic communications market is credited to come up with the “Numero Uno” among all fiber optic cleaners.

Though this fine product is definitely the company’s flag ship product, there are other products which are a part of the AEFOS’ arsenal. The company also deals in fiber optic cable tools such as fiber optic inspection scopes and fiber optic testers. The company has built a solid reputation of creating handy and useful fiber optic cleaners and other fiber optic cable tools which produces instant result and helps one to keep the system free of any dust particles.

The initial industry practice was to connector cleaners. However, experts soon realized that the cleaning of connector “inside the box” is also required. Gone are the days when one used swabs which came in the category of basic and purpose built swabs. In today’s scenario, the ideal practice is fiber optic connectors need to be clean every time they are mated. Today we have covered connector ends in shape of closed end plastic tubes which protect and keep away dust from settling in.

The innovation in this field has been pioneered by companies like AEFOS. The cleaning cycle using AEFOS’ fiber optic cleaner is 3 seconds. The result of the cycle is a readability of 99.5%. With an easy to use device which comes with a user manual, AEFOS manufactures both male and female tips ranging from 1.25mm to 2.5mm.

The company is dedicated to manufacturing of the best fiber optic cleaners, fiber optic testers and other important equipment for the fiber optic industry. With inside-cleaning option available using fiber optic inspection scope, the idea of any debris present in the system is just not possible.