EXFO adds multimode capabilities to iOLM LAN/WAN test tools

EXFO Inc. (NASDAQ: EXFO, TSX: EXF) has added multimode test capabilities to fiber characterization tools based on its intelligent Optical Link Mapper (iOLM) technology. EXFO’s FTB-720 LAN/WAN Access test module now supports full iOLM functionalities on both singlemode fiber and multimode fiber, making it the ideal troubleshooting tool for fiber-to-the-antenna (FTTA) and data center networks, the company assets.

Launched in 2011 for singlemode applications, the iOLM was designed to simplify optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) testing by removing the need to set parameters as well as analyze and interpret multiple complex OTDR traces. By combining multiple pulse widths on multiple wavelengths with advanced algorithms, the iOLM correlates all OTDR results, enabling it to locate and identify faults with maximum resolution, at the push of a single button. EXFO says the iOLM enables fiber technicians of all skill levels to characterize end-to-end fiber links the same way an experienced OTDR technician would.

To cope with the demanding requirements of multimode networks, EXFO says its product now fulfills encircled flux compliance. The encircled flux standard (EF), as recommended by the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA-526-14-B) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC 61280-4-1), is a method of controlling light source launch conditions to eliminate variations in test results that tend to occur when using different sources in multimode environments. EXFO says it has developed a compact and lightweight external launch mode conditioner, the SPSB-EF, which can be paired with an FLS-600 light source or any EXFO multimode OTDR to create a precise, repeatable, and cost-effective EF-compliant test instrument.

“By making the iOLM available for multimode fibers, network operators and contractors working in fiber-to-the-antenna or distributed antenna systems environment can ensure that problems are identified faster than ever before” said Étienne Gagnon, EXFO’s vice-president, physical layer and wireless division. “When paired with EF conditioner, EXFO’s iOLM-MM also boosts Tier 2 certification and troubleshooting for data center applications, which is critical to improve mean time to recovery (MTTR) and avoid the high cost of downtime.”

To serve the basic Tier 1 certification market, EXFO is also releasing a new version of the FLS-600 Light Source. This handheld light source offers built-in EF-compliant launch conditions that ensure proper loss measurement according to the latest standards.

For more information on test equipment and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide.