Chapter 6
Fiber Optics Diagnostics (TRACETEK)
TRACETEK OPERATING PRINCIPLES
TRACETEK is able to provide most of the troubleshooting functions of an OTDR at a
fraction of the cost with a simple, easy-to-use interface that requires almost no
training. Like an OTDR, TRACETEK fires a precise laser pulse into a fiber and monitors
the fiber for return pulses. This means that like an OTDR, TRACETEK can measure the
overall length of a fiber, as well as measure the distance to reflective events within
the fiber.
Unlike an OTDR, TRACTEK is exceptionally easy to use. The only setup consists of
choosing from one of three operating modes (High, Medium, or Low Resolution). The
lightweight module is small enough that it can be carried in the installer’s test
equipment case, making it available in any situation that requires fiber
troubleshooting. Since TRACETEK does not measure fiber scattering, it cannot
measure the insertion loss of the link or individual connectors like an OTDR.
Unlike fiber test kits that also measure overall length, TRACETEK only needs to be
connected to one side of the fiber to make its measurements. Traditional fiber test kits
need to either have hardware connected at both ends of the fiber, or a loop-back cable
installed at the far end to make its length measurement. This means that two
technicians are required to test the length, or one technician can perform the test by
walking back and forth to test each strand, taking twice as long to finish the job.
USING TRACETEK
The TRACETEK module uses a very high-power infrared laser for both multimode and
single mode testing. The light emitted from TRACETEK is invisible, so take care when
using TRACETEK or examining connectors not to look directly into the connector or
examine it with an inspection scope unless you are certain the module is powered off
or disconnected.
With the TRACETEK module attached to LANTEK, connect the module to the fiber
under test with the included FC-ST (FC-FC for single mode) launch cable. Unlike an
OTDR, TRACETEK does not require the use of long launch cables; its dead-zone is
short enough that any jumper of 2 m (6 ft) or more can be used.
1.
With the TRACETEK module attached to LANTEK, connect the module to the fiber
under test with the included FC-ST (FC-FC for single mode) launch cable. Unlike an
OTDR, TRACETEK does not require the use of long launch cables; its dead-zone is
short enough that any jumper of 2 m (6 ft) or more can be used.
2.
Turn on the power to the LANTEK. Choose the Analyze icon, press ENTER.
3.
In the TRACETEK Analyze menu there are three options to choose from: High
Resolution, Medium Resolution and Low Resolution. This setting will change the
pulse with “laser power” that is fired into the cable. In this case resolution is the
opposite of distance, meaning that the short cables are better tested with High
Resolution and long cables are better tested with Low Resolution.
6-3
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