Test & Measurement


The value of a single platform

8 February 2006 Test & Measurement

Each new development in fibre network technology triggers an explosion of test and measurement requirements. To keep up, companies accumulate a multitude of instruments and modules that perform specific tests and measurements on each aspect of the network as new fibre, equipment, elements, and services are integrated. The result: today's technicians are overloaded, forced to haul many different pieces of equipment and modules into the field. Also, managers are overwhelmed with tracking large, unwieldy equipment inventories in addition to spending too much money and time finding and correcting mistakes and waiting for results.

Built on a flexible, scalable platform, the JDS Uniphase (formerly Acterna) MTS-8000 tester combines the best in photonic and physical test functionality, lifting it above the crowd of standalone testers and single-function modules. This single instrument can be used for fibre installation, network turnup, and system maintenance and upgrades, and it generates test results in seconds, which means that more fibres can be tested in less time.

With individual modules that easily plug into the unit, a single MTS-8000 can test the physical fibre and DWDM system and fibre applications and technologies. This scalability provides companies with the flexibility they need to meet changing network testing requirements while gaining greater control over network performance. As technologies converge, this one instrument enables service providers to efficiently validate and continually ensure that all network elements, systems, and applications operate properly.

The advantages of high-performance measurement combined with unprecedented levels of scalability add up to the MTS-8000-a complete, highly cost-effective, multilayer field test platform. The MTS-8000's stackable design allows it to hold either one or all of the following modules.

Optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) with over 17 different plug-in modules covering all configurations from short-haul to ultra-long haul networks.

Chromatic dispersion (CD) based on a single ended method requiring only one technician to perform the test.

Polarisation mode dispersion (PMD) for qualifying the fibre plant before installing high-speed transmission technologies and avoiding costly service disruptions and/or rework.

Wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) for channel testing and measuring spectral attenuation in the C and L bands.

Optical spectrum analyser (OSA) for high-performance, full-spectrum DWDM analysis with a unique option for 10.7G channel isolation.

Because of its advanced architecture and design, standard fibre test devices are easily integrated into the MTS-8000's compact base unit, which saves space and weight. And with the built-in talk set option, users can communicate over the fibre in areas where there are no other means possible and transfer measurement references and data files between units located at both ends of the link.

Power meter and visual fault locator options integrated into the base unit for rapid troubleshooting of fibre patch cords and optical distribution frames and a video microscope option that ensures the cleanliness and quality of optical connectors make the MTS-8000 a complete fibre connector test solution for the field.

Comtest's precision measurement sales manager, Hilton Preston, says, "We are confident that this solution will prove invaluable to the fixed line operators who have optical fibre installed as well as the manufacturers of fibre-optic cables."



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