Yokogawa has introduced the AQ1210D, a dual-purpose OTDR for both single-mode fiber (SMF) and multimode fiber (MMF) applications. The OTDR is designed and priced to enable small and medium-sized contractors to efficiently install and maintain of shorter fiber networks such as those found within and between buildings.
Part of the manufacturer's AQ1210 series, the OTDR offers coverage of four wavelengths of 1310/1550 nm (SMF) and 850/1300 nm (MMF).
“Network cabling contractors and installers – as well as maintenance and repair professionals – can now enjoy the advantages of a four-wavelength OTDR at an affordable price point,” comments Terry Marrinan, vice president, sales and marketing, Yokogawa Europe and South-East Asia.
Yokogawa says the unit's SMF dynamic range of 37/35 dB is optimal for inter-building and short-distance networks found in fiber-to-the-building, point-to-point optical link, and data center interconnect applications. Meanwhile, the tester's MMF dynamic range of 25/27 dB suits LAN, private, enterprise, campus, and data center network requirements.
The AQ1210D also features a short event dead zone (MMF 0.5 m) and attenuation dead zone (MMF 2.5 m). Yokogawa says such performance significantly aids in identifying/separating the connectors of short-fiber cable. The OTDR offers a 5.7-inch display and weighs approximately 1 kg.
In addition to use in the measurement of fiber links and the location of breaks, the OTDR also can be used to identify points of high loss, high reflectance, end-to-end loss, and optical return loss.
Yokogawa's Marrinan concludes, “With suitability for both single-mode and multimode fiber networks, the AQ1210D is a flexible and reliable tool in inter- and intra-building projects, whether certifying the performance of new links or detecting issues with existing ones. By adding this multi-field tester to our portfolio, we have moved OTDR technology from specialist to everyday equipment, without compromising performance.”