Ways to Identify Fiber Link Problems

There are two ways to detect fiber optic link problems, namely applying time domain reflectometer and fiber optic visual fault locator. Among them, fiber optic industry experts often use visual fault locators. Let's discuss what a visual fault locator is and how it can be used for fiber optic link fault detection.

Fiber Vision Fault Locator Overview

The Visual Fault Locator is a laser-powered pen-style device designed to locate errors in fiber optic links. It can be used to analyze the location of fiber optic networks, such as splice points, connector connections, and the entire length of fiber optic cables. Depending on the type of analysis performed, it can be used in continuous laser detection mode or in flash mode.

Take the following steps when using a visual fault locator to identify fiber optic link problems.

• Visual fault detectors can only be used with field fiber optic solutions. So the first step is to test the transaction point by pointing the laser pointer at the connection location. The transaction point is where the connector splices with the cable. If there is an external light source, verify that it is present. If there are no external influences, test the splice connection. Check to see if the cable is spliced ​​wrong, if not, check the next location.
• Slide the visual fault locator through the length of the fiber optic cable. However, experienced fiber network testers can use logical methods to locate potential trouble areas. Otherwise, the cable must be thoroughly tested. Throughout the length, the fiber must be checked for cuts, loss of signal strength, etc.
• If a loss of signal strength is found at one location, another 20 to 30 miles of fiber must be tested. If the fault locator fails to indicate signal interruption traces, time domain reflectometry may be required in extreme cases.

NOTE: A fiber optic network may diagnose one or more faults for which the fiber optic solution must be customized.

Tips for Troubleshooting Fiber Optic Links

Fiber optic links often suffer from fiber cuts, reduced signal strength, and attenuation at the splice location. To resolve such errors, the following tips may be helpful.

• Use proper quality fiber optic connectors, media converters, fiber optic switches, etc.
• Choose high-quality fiber splicing services to reduce attenuation loss.
• In the event of a fiber cut, the cable may need to be rewrapped or replaced.
• Purchase only high-quality fiber optic transmitters and receivers to maintain signal strength for a longer period of time. Transmitters must be tested against the quality of laser or LED signal transmitters.