Press information
To download a text file of this release, go to www.parkfield.co.uk/fia

FIA publishes free OTDR equipment analysis
Released 26 September 2003

Reliable testing of fibre optic cabling is an important issue. To assist users who need a ready reference to the test equipment available, the Fibreoptic Industry Association has published The Fibre Optic Test Equipment Selection Guide, a comprehensive listing of almost 90 different OTDR models produced by the 10 leading suppliers in the UK. The guide, which will be updated on a regular basis as new equipment is launched by the test equipment manufacturers, is available as a free Excel spreadsheet download for FIA members. Free access to such documents is just one of the many benefits of FIA membership: contact the FIA Secretariat, 01763 273039, jane@fiasec.demon.co.uk for details.

The Guide has been compiled solely using manufacturers' published data sheets and specifications available in the public domain. While some equipment classes may be covered by specifications published by Bellcore, International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), Electronic Industry Association (EIA) or the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), care must be exercised when comparing detailed specifications as there are no rigid guidelines on how this information must be presented. While these standards provide some guidance, they do not all necessarily agree on some of the definitions used when describing test equipment form, function and specification. 

Understandably, manufacturers will naturally use definitions that show their offerings in the best possible manner. To help the user to make an informed comparison between products from different manufacturers, the document includes a glossary of commonly used definitions. 

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Notes to Editors.

For further information:

FIA administrative contact:
Jane Morrison		
Fibreoptic Industry Association	
The Manor House 
Buntingford
SG9 9AB
tel: 01763 273039	
fax: 01763 273255	
jane@fiasec.demon.co.uk
www.fibreoptic.org.uk

Agency contact:
Nigel May		
Parkfield Communications Limited
Parkfield House
Damerham
SP6 3HQ
tel: 01725 518321
fax: 01725 518378
nigel.may@parkfield.co.uk
www.parkfield.co.uk

The Fibreoptic Industry Association represents more than 80% of UK companies involved in the manufacture or installation of fibre optic components and systems for voice and data communications. The Association provides advice to end-users, runs training and qualification services for its members, contributes to the development of national and international standards and generally represents the interests of the fibre industry. Its web site, www.fibreoptic.org.uk provides a free online reference service to all visitors.