4
Another possible application for the FD322 as a cable break detector is to protect solar panels at a
solar farm. Deploying the break detection design involves weaving the fiber loop through the solar
panels. The cable is looped through the panels in a manner that the cable cannot be removed without
being cut. In this type of application, the APU can be tuned so that it will not alarm when the optical
fiber is shaken but will alarm when the fiber is broken.
Figure 2
To configure the FD322 to detect breaks only, first verify that the maximum loss in the fiber is less than
5dB.
1
The FD322 APU has a built-
in loss calculator that functions as part of the unit’s calibration process.
Using the
FD322’s
custom
Tuning Software
to check the loss
using the APU, execute the “CALIB”
command within the software’s “Terminal Mode” as follows:
1.
Enter Terminal mode and type “CALIB” in all caps, then [Enter]
2.
Type “ML” and [Enter]
3. Verify that you are prepared to calibrate the processor
4. Shake the fiber for ten seconds and press the test button located under the LEDs on the
corresponding channel of the unit
5. View and record the measured loss value and ensure it is below 5dB
A more detailed description of the calibration process can be found on the
FD322 Field Calibration
Video
http://www.fibersensys.com/products/product-videos
. Note: Product and training
videos are available to registered users. Register at
http://fibersensys.com/login-or-register
1. Typically installations <5km have less than 5dB loss.
