TEST: Tips

IL @ 1550 higher than 1310 A connector, or an entire product design, showing a significantly higher Insertion Loss at 1550 than at 1310 indicates the likely presence of a stress point on the fiber somewhere in the cable assembly—most likely a fiber bend that...

The ferrule hole bore must be slightly larger in diameter than the fiber to allow the fiber to be inserted into the hole. The smaller the ferrule hole diameter, the more precisely the fiber will be centered in the ferrule (thus, lower Insertion Loss can be ...

The ideal (minimum-loss) fiber path would have NO connections. Instead, it would be one continuous, straight-through glass fiber from Point A to Point B – with no interruptions. Since fiber networks usually require connectors for modularity, path splits, etc., we...

When it comes to assessing the quality and condition of test cables, first ensure the test cable’s connectors are clean. Next, take a close look to ensure they are in good condition. Keep in mind that both connectors and coupling sleeves don’t last forever. They...

IL @ 1310 higher than 1550 A connector, or an entire product design, showing a significantly higher Insertion Loss at 1310 than at 1550 indicates a likely problem in core-to-core alignment between the two mated ferrules. The difference may be small, and indeed may...

IL @ 1310 and 1550 Similar   If made properly, the cable assembly will test about the same at either 1310 or 1550.  1550 Insertion Loss results are generally better by a few hundredths of a dB, due to, in part, its lower fiber attenuation. It’s normal...

This physical characteristic of the ferrule will cause an alignment issue: if the ferrule hole is not perfectly centered, the fiber it holds will obviously never be perfectly centered. If you are using ferrules with poorly centered holes, consider purchasing ...

One helpful tip for troubleshooting any Single mode Insertion Loss testing issue with your product is to remember the following: 1310nm is more sensitive to alignment problems 1550nm is more sensitive to fiber bending problems  READ THE BLOG: Insertion...

Epoxy on the technician’s finger transfers to the outside of the ferrule during in-process product handling. This accidental contamination may result in a fiber that is not centered perfectly within the adapter sleeve and, therefore, not aligned. Such process ...

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 address. However, before addressing common...