The most accurate way to determine actual link loss is by using an Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) to trace the link. Once we have calculated the total link loss, we need to determine whether this loss is within an acceptable range for the fiber optic link to function. This is your "QuickStart" guide to testing fiber optic cable plants, patchcords and communications equipment with a fiber optic light source and power meter. We'll give you the basic information you need and provide some printable references. There are various causes of fiber optic loss, such as absorption/scattering of light energy by fiber material, bending loss, connector loss, etc. Want to know how much loss is happening on your fiber link? Keep reading—this post will show. Insertion loss testing measures the total optical loss of a fiber cable or link.
