Abstract
A novel technique for analyzing commercially available Optical Time Domain Reflectometers (OTDRs) , to be used in fiber diagnostic and characterization tests, is described. Three OTDR models are selected for evaluation. A series of optical fiber loss and length measurements are made on several single mode fibers to evaluate the performance capability of each of the selected OTDRs. The OTDR properties examined are pulse recovery following a Fresnel reflection, measurement accuracy, and distance accuracy/fault detection capability. The measurements are accomplished both manually and automatically under ambient and low temperature conditions. Pulse recovery immediately following a Fresnel reflection is given primary attention in this paper. A novel measurement technique is adopted for the collection of discrete optical loss data in the region immediately following the Fresnel reflections. An exponential-type curve is assumed for the drop off of the Fresnel reflections. It is found that bases much greater than e (2.72) gives the best fit to the optical loss data. The minimum distance beyond the Fresnel reflection zone at which the backscattered signal is obscured or distorted is determined from the data and model comparison. The minimum extent of the Fresnel reflection zone ranges from 180m to 600m depending the OTDR type and operating mode. Results of preliminary analysis of the measurement accuracy and distance accuracy/fault location capability for each OTDR are also given in this paper.
Published Version
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