May 3, 2005 Sycamore, IL -- Ideal Industries (Ideal) has upgraded its VFF5 Visual Fault Finder. According to the company, the fiber-optic cable tester now features a universal 2.5-mm interface that supports ST, SC, and FC optical connectors. Other features of the upgraded device include a non-roll metal body with a waterproof Santoprene over-sleeve, improved battery life in continuous mode from 30 to 80 hours, and an optional nylon holster and integrated swivel belt-clip.
According to the company, the VFF5 is a suitable stand-alone first-line tool, and is especially effective when used in conjunction with an OTDR, to pinpoint faults. The device's 650-nm laser diode operates in either continuous or modulated modes. The company calls the device a compact, hand-held light source optimized to locate breaks, poor mechanical splices, and damaged connectors in fiber-optic cables.
According to the company, the device's highly visible red light travels approximately 2.5 mi. (4 km) of jacketed or bare fiber-optic cabling. Breaks in cabling are indicated by a blinking red light. The company says the device is also an effective aide to technicians terminating mechanical splices or internal-splice style connectors, where leaking light is an indicator of a poor fiber cleave or other misalignment.
The device is priced at $295, and is available now in a kit including a holster, an integrated rubber port cover, a lanyard, a cell-phone style belt-clip, instructions, and batteries.
