TEST: Blog Articles

Measuring the insertion loss of a Single Mode jumper would seem to be a simple matter but there are a few complications to consider. Insertion Loss is a relative measure, it’s the reduction in power when an additional passive element is added to an optical...

For a quick reference, we have compiled a few tips that can help enhance your manufacturing process. Tip # 1: Check the stability of your test setup after referencing. After performing an IL reference, leave the test lead attached directly to the power meter...

In standard Singlemode cable assembly, the two wavelengths used for Insertion Loss testing are 1310nm and 1550nm. All Singlemode fibers work very similarly in either wavelength—that is, you don’t need to buy fiber based on wavelength, one fiber fits all. So ...

I frequently hear customers complain that although nothing has changed in their fiber optic cable assembly production process, the measured Insertion Loss (IL) and Return Loss (RL) values of their product aren’t as good as they once were. Is something wrong ...

Here is a question several customers have asked me. Have you experienced this issue? When measured on my properly calibrated IL/RL meter, some of my patch cords show ‘gain.’ How can this be possible? ...

Is your company entering the fiber optic cable assembly business, and you’re “setting up shop”? In your research, you may be discovering that most equipment is not offered as a one-size-fits-all, universal solution. ...

I believe every fiber optic manufacturing company should build its own test leads. Of course, these test leads must provide accurate, repeatable Insertion Loss (IL) test results. This article offers guidance to confidently build and use your own EF-Compliant...

Why is it important to measure Insertion Loss and Return Loss? It’s quite simple: Your customers demand it. Your customers need to know that you’ve tested every fiber optic jumper and cable and have acquired accurate IL/RL measurements that meet their specs. Why...

Authors: Chris Rollinson and Dan Rocheleau Most likely, your testing specifications present minimum requirements for a Low IL and High RL. If your production facility is challenged with meeting the desired IL/RL specs, there are common causes you can investigate and...

There are two types of IEC standards for MT/MPO measurements using interferometry. The first is the “Measurement Standard” and its primary purpose is to try and ensure that different instruments yield the same measurement results. This standard includes info ...