EXFO debuts line of handheld testers for the enterprise

January 24, 2005 Quebec City, Canada -- EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. announced today the release of the FiberBasix 500 Handheld Series, which it claims will provide worry-free, simple, and efficient testing of optical networks used in enterprise markets.

The FiberBasix 500 series enables accurate measurement of signal attenuation during fiber-optic cable installation and maintenance. Ideal for network-link certification, the test series comprises three convenient instruments:

• The EOT-500 Optical Loss Test Set (OLTS), a power meter with an integrated multi-wavelength light source, features Pass/Fail thresholds with a visual indicator. This feature speeds up testing by providing on-site analysis. With memory capacity of 1000 data entries, this OLTS allows data transfer to a personal computer via a universal serial bus (USB) connection. Tests can be carried out on as many as three wavelengths (850 nm, 1300 nm, 1310 nm, 1490 nm, or 1550 nm).

• Similarly, the EPM-500 Power Meter contains a Pass/Fail indicator and memory capacity of 1000 data entries. This rugged power meter provides accurate power measurements and reference-value setting capabilities, according to the company. In addition, no offset nulling is required for long-lasting performance in the field.

• The ELS-500 Light Source delivers excellent stability and high-measurement accuracy for up to three singlemode wavelengths on a single port or four wavelengths on two ports, say company representatives.EXFO's FiberBasix 500 series offers an optional visual fault locator (VFL) for short-distance troubleshooting applications. The complete series is available through a network of accredited distribution partners and catalog houses."Based on our 19-plus years of experience in optical testing, we have developed the most efficient and cost-effective solution for network-link certification, which is required in growing enterprise networks," contends Ã�tienne Gagnon, EXFO's vice president of Optical-Layer Product Management. "The FiberBasix 500 series demonstrates EXFO's ongoing commitment to bring innovative and dedicated test solutions to its enterprise customers."