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


FIA guide to using OTDR to test fibre cabling
Released 7 February 2003

The Fibreoptic Industry Association has published its latest Technical Support Guide, TSD-2000-4-2-2, "Optical Fibre Cable, Testing, Installed Cabling Using Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) Equipment". The guide is free to members, £150 to non-members.

An OTDR is arguably the most powerful analytical tool available; it can be used to perform inspection and testing of all types of MMF and SMF cabling at all stages of installation. It works by launching a series of short pulses of LASER light into the optical fibre and collecting and analysing the backscattered light to produce an attenuation profile along the length of the fibre under test. However, its very sophistication and versatility means that unskilled use can produce meaningless results. 

The FIA Guide gives comprehensive coverage of the theory of the OTDR, its applications, equipment selection, operating parameters, measurement techniques such as the use of launch and tail cords the use of double-ended measurements; it also gives guidance on the interpretation of results. 

The Guide is essential reading for anyone needing to understand testing of Optical Fibres using an OTDR; FIA members can download the PDF from the web site, www.fibreoptic.org.uk, non-members can purchase the document from the Secretary, 01763 273039.

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Notes to Editors.

For further information:

FIA commercial contact:
Steve Strange	
Commercial Director
c/o Anixter International
tel: 01895 818395
fax: 01895 818192
steve.strange@anixter.com

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
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.