Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1327492
24 I ICT TODAY correct setting and interpret the resulting OTDR trace. In many cases, due to the proximity of optical splitters to one another and other components in the network, it may require more than one measurement to fully characterize the network. That is why an OTDR should have advanced smart/intelligent link mapping capabilities that can help reduce potential human errors by eliminating the need to configure parameters and to interpret complex multiple OTDR traces. The intelligent OTDR should also use advanced algorithms that dynamically define the testing parameters, as well as the number of acquisitions that best fit the network under test. By correlating multipulse widths on multiple wavelengths, the link mapping capability locates all events and identifies faults with maximum resolution, displayed preferably in an icon- based fiber-link view to quickly assess an event pass/fail status as per the standard selected. Service Activation Testing Once the optical cables have been installed and tested according to best practices, the next phase consists of installing some or every ONT which is the end point to each optical fiber. The ONT can be embedded in a wall-mount plate or installed on a desk for example. Turning up these devices for service activation can be done at the time of install or later but will ultimately require a final test to confirm specific links are ready for service. Since ONTs are active devices transmitting light over the fiber network to communicate with the OLT as well as receiving light being transmitted by the OLT itself, power levels at the ONT for both downstream (receiver) Having identified the benefits of POLs when deployed and tested in the enterprise, it is important to note that the POL is still at an early stage of deployment. Fiber Verification During Installation Validating fiber quality during installation with a simple and effective test unit can drastically improve overall network performance and is paramount to achieving a first-time-right result during service activation. Validating the optical link integrity from end-to-end, confirming no impairments are left behind after con- struction of the network, measuring total link insertion loss (IL), and locating potential issues up-front are essential steps leading to the success of this most important deployment phase. Although this may sound complex and time- consuming, it is done automatically by a new category of technologically advanced fiber optic meter test tools. When choosing a highly sophisticated meter, it should provide optimized testing results for optical LAN verifi- cation in less than 5 seconds. In addition to indicating power, fiber length, IL and optical return loss (ORL), some advanced meters will automatically conduct further exploration when potential issues are suspected, allowing field technicians to find and identify faulty events before leaving the premise. A meter using innovative tech- nology is the best test method to ensure first-time-right deployment, to efficiently check several thousands of fibers, and to deliver high network quality. Because the technology is intelligent, easy-to-use, and provides expert-level test results, technicians require no specific training. Full Fiber Characterization During Construction To document the full link characterization, an optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) will be necessary. This device requires a high level of expertise to select the