Optical Time Domain Reflectometry (OTDR) is a well-known means of testing a fiber optic cable assembly in optical networks. The OTDR launches a very narrow pulse into the fiber and then records the response of the cable/connector assembly to this pulse. Both reflections and absorption can be observed in the cable, providing the troubleshooter with the information needed to diagnose cable problems. It has long been a desire by our customers to incorporate such capability into our fiber optic networks, since it pinpoints a cable or transceiver fault in a matter of minutes. However, to date such Built-In capability has been considered impractical for a number of reasons. These include: the very high cost (> $3000) of commercially available equipment; the large size (smallest models are the size of a calculator); and the need to disconnect cables and bring into place a different laser and detector when the OTDR is to be performed. Boeing Phantom Works has developed an OTDR function that eliminates all of these problems. Because it can operate with very low-level optical power, the OTDR function can use the same laser and detector used for communications. The recurring cost of the added hardware is expected to be relatively low and will fit into the standard fiber optic transceiver packages currently in use in military and commercial aerospace applications. Because the OTDR function is built in to the fiber optic transceivers, no connectors need to be demated.
Built-In Test for Fiber Optic Networks Enabled by OTDR
2006-10-01
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Aufsatz (Konferenz)
Elektronische Ressource
Englisch
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