Fibre Testers

Fibre optic testers are specialised devices used to test and diagnose fibre optic cabling and connected equipment. Key tools for conducting thorough assessments of fibre optic cables include fibre light sources, optical power meters, and fibre optic visual locators. These testers can measure cable length and pinpoint the locations of splices and connectors.

How do Fibre Optic Testers Work?

Using different diagnostic tools and methods, the test equipment will vary in look and degree, but all have the same necessary function. You will connect your device to the outlet and run a series of diagnostic tests to check things like signal strength and stability. Here are some of the functions of a Fibre Optic Tester:

• Plug and play USB interfaces on many devices.
• Provides information for each connection, slice or cable segment in the link.
• Produce diagnostic tests for new cable installation, great for comparing later if a problem arises.
• Illuminates poor connections and breaks.
• Provides graphical data in some models.
• Power meter options, data storage and trace analysis in different models available.

Where would you use a Fibre Optic Tester?

• Local Networks for Your Office or Home: Ideal for ensuring the integrity and performance of fibre optic cabling in residential or office settings.
• Larger Scale Neighbourhood-Wide: Essential for testing and maintaining fibre optic networks across larger areas, such as suburbs or community networks.
• Fresh Installs of Cabling: Crucial for verifying the functionality and quality of newly installed fibre optic cabling before it goes live.

The Importance of Optical Fibre in Australian Networks

Optical fibre is essential in today's Australian networks, especially with the increasing demand driven by the growth of commercial buildings and larger sites. This heightened demand makes fibre optic testing critical for certifying network performance. Fibre testers ensure that installed cables are fully operational, as identifying any damage along the cable is vital to maintaining optimal performance.

Types of Fibre Testers

• Optical Power Meters (OPM): These devices measure the power of an optical signal, typically in dBm (decibels per milliwatt). They are used to test the signal strength of fibre optic cables and components, helping to identify attenuation or loss in the signal.
• Visual Fault Locators (VFL): VFLs are used to visually locate faults or breaks in fibre optic cables. They emit a bright red laser light that can be seen through the cable jacket, allowing technicians to pinpoint the location of a fault.
• OTDR (Optical Time Domain Reflectometer): OTDRs are sophisticated fibre optic testers that send pulses of light down a fibre optic cable and analyse the reflections to measure the cable's length, attenuation, and locate faults or splices.
• Fibre Optic Cable Continuity Testers: These testers are used to verify the continuity of a fibre optic cable, ensuring that there are no breaks or interruptions in the fibre. They typically use a simple light source and receiver to check for light transmission through the cable.
• Fibre Identifiers: Fibre identifiers are used to identify individual fibres within a cable or network. They emit a modulated signal that can be detected by a corresponding receiver, allowing technicians to trace and identify specific fibres.
• Fusion Splice Testers: Fusion splice testers are used to evaluate the quality of fusion splices, which are permanent joints between two fibre optic cables. They measure the insertion loss and reflectance of the splice, ensuring a low-loss and reliable connection.

Key Features to Look for in A Fibre Tester

• Accuracy: The accuracy of the fibre optic tester is crucial for reliable measurements and diagnostics. Look for testers with high accuracy specifications and calibration capabilities.
• Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface and intuitive controls simplify testing and troubleshooting, especially for technicians in the field.
• Portability: Portable and lightweight fibre testers are essential for field technicians who need to carry the equipment to various locations.
• Range: The measurement range of the tester should be suitable for the types of fibre optic cables and networks you will be testing.
• Battery Life: Long battery life is crucial for extended field use, ensuring uninterrupted testing and troubleshooting.
• Durability: A rugged and durable design protects the fibre optic tester from accidental damage in demanding industrial environments.
• Multi-Functionality: Testers with multiple functions, such as OPM, VFL, and OTDR capabilities, offer versatility and cost-effectiveness.
• Display: A clear and easy-to-read display, preferably with backlight functionality, ensures accurate and convenient data interpretation.
• Calibration: Regular calibration ensures the accuracy and reliability of the fibre optic tester. Look for testers with easy calibration procedures or consider calibration services offered by RS.
• Compatibility: Ensure the fibre optic tester is compatible with the types of connectors and cables used in your network.

Industrial Applications of Fibre Testers

• Telecommunications: Fibre optic testers are essential for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting fibre optic networks used in telecommunications infrastructure.
• Data Centres: Data centres rely heavily on fibre optic cables for high-speed data transmission. Fibre testers are used to ensure network performance and reliability.
• Broadcasting: Fibre optic cables are used in broadcasting to transmit high-definition video and audio signals. Fibre testers ensure signal quality and identify any issues that may affect broadcast quality.
• Manufacturing & Automation: Fibre optic cables are used in industrial automation for communication and control systems. Fibre testers ensure reliable data transmission and prevent downtime.
• Military & Defence: Fibre optic cables are used in military and defence applications for secure communication and data transfer. Fibre testers ensure the integrity and reliability of these critical systems.
• Healthcare: Fibre optic cables are used in medical imaging and diagnostic equipment. Fibre testers ensure accurate data transmission and prevent errors in critical medical procedures.
• Energy & Power: Fibre optic cables are used in power generation and distribution systems for communication and control. Fibre testers ensure grid stability and efficient energy management.
• Railway Systems: Fibre optic cables are used in railway signalling and communication systems. Fibre testers ensure safe and reliable operation of train networks.
• Aerospace & Aviation: Fibre optic cables are used in aircraft and spacecraft for communication, navigation, and control systems. Fibre testers ensure the performance and reliability of these critical systems.

Trusted Fibre Optic Tester Manufacturer, Supplier & Distributor in Australia

RS has a comprehensive range of fibre optic testers from leading brands such as Fluke, Greenlee and Tempo. We have technical advisors on hand for questions you may have. RS also offers a calibration service for your fibre optic tester to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Buy Fibre Optic Testers Online from RS

Buy fibre optic testers at RS Australia with fast and reliable nationwide shipping. Visit our Delivery Information page to learn more about shipping options and timelines.