Optical time domain reflectometers (OTDRs) are widely used in the installation and maintenance of optical fibre cables. The loss characteristics and breakpoint positions of laid optical fibres are measured by OTDRs which are indispensable for recovering from line problems. Recently, smaller, lighter, mini-OTDRs having higher performance and more functions than stationary ones have become the instruments of choice.
The latest OTDRs have the following superior performance and functions: high-speed measurement in 10 s in fully automatic mode with a dynamic range of more than 45 dB and a dead zone of less than 8 m. An optical power meter function and a built-in light source are standard in order to carry out highly accurate optical loss measurements. A visible light source and an optical channel selector for measuring multi-core optical fibres effectively are both built in. And a loss measurement function for the L band of DWDM systems is also provided. In addition, mini-OTDRs capable of measuring chromatic dispersion characteristics have been launched.
The MW9076 series mini-OTDRs, manufactured by Anritsu, boast such superior performance and functions and were the first to be equipped with a chromatic dispersion measurement function. The principle of chromatic dispersion measurement using the MW9076DR1 mini-OTDR can be seen in Figure 1.
Future technologies
Optical and digital technologies are rapidly advancing toward realisation of Terabit networks thanks to the fusion of various technologies, including that of IP protocol and photonic network technologies. Seamlessness will be further promoted in next-generation communications networks and further expansion is expected base on the fusion of wired technologies such as optical and digital technologies and wireless technologies including W-CDMA and digital broadcasting technologies.
With demand for information and communications expanding dramatically, next-generation measuring instruments will require even higher speed, greater performance and more sophisticated functions.
Award winner
Anritsu's MW9076 series mini-OTDRs, highly evaluated worldwide at optical communications sites, received the Product Design Award from the Industrie Forum Design Hannover Awards (iF Awards), the first for a measuring instrument for communications use manufactured in Japan. The company says that not only its exterior design, but also its superior functions including ease of use and good operability were features instrumental in this recognition.
The iF Awards are given in four design divisions, including product, ecology, interaction and exhibition and are ranked as one of the world's most authoritative design awards dating back to 1953. Award-winning products, including the MW9076, is being displayed for one year at the Cebit 2001 exhibition in Hannover.
© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved
printer friendly version