Hello, everyone!
Today, I will continue to write about troubleshooting optical networks. This is the last article about this topic.
We have to use an optical power meter or PON meter to check the optical power, it depends on whether the system operates at one or more wavelengths.
When we find that an optical fiber or cable has broken. We need to locate the fault. For short links (<30 or 50 m) or premises cables, VFL is used. It is a red light source, at 650 nm. We can use it for a max of 5 to 10 km. VFL is usually used where OTDR cannot. It is easy to use, and the location of the fault is the location where the red light is visible. We also use VFL to identify fibers in case the fibers are mixed.
OTDR is used for long cables. This is the most important instrument for troubleshooting. With OTDR we can find the place of damage to the fiber/cable, macro bands, dirty connectors, etc.
Connector and fiber cleaning equipment is required. The optical connectors must be cleaned before testing.
Figure 1. Fusion splicing
In addition to the instruments, the staff in charge of solving the problem must also have the tools and spare elements and cables, which I have already talked about. Spare equipment - optical cables, optical closures, etc must be marked and staff must know the location.
Documentation is used to solve the problem. Staff must know the location of the documentation, and be able to use it. Many network problems are caused by network works. Problems caused by network work: bent optical cables or fibers, mixed fibers or patch cords, etc.
When solving the problem, visual inspection of device indicators, optical connections, optical cables, etc. is also required. To identify a possible problem. Electronic devices often require a reset.
If a major breakdown is found - damage to a large capacity optical cable or if the weather conditions are difficult - night, low or high temperatures, etc., only active optical fibers need to be repaired. The remaining optical fibers can be subsequently repaired. If it is necessary to mark and protect the place of the accident until the complete resolution of the accident is completed.
This is the end of this topic.
Thank you!
