Direct Transmitter Output Power Measurement
Required Accessories
Power on the transmitter port according to manufacturer
instructions, if necessary.
Monitor the reading on the screen for a few seconds. This reading may fluctuate if the output signal is made up of digital
zeroes (0) and ones (1). In this case, estimate the average power level. To calculate maximum output power, add 3 dB to
the average power level.
Some transmitters have a diagnostic mode where the output is continuously at its maximum power. This
eliminates the need to compensate 3dB for digital data transmission. Consult the active equipment
manufacturer’s operations guide for more information.
To measure the output power from a transmitter, use the following steps:
(1 or 2) one-meter patch cable(s) – (ensure proper connector type and fiber type)
Press
to power on the ZOOM 2 optical power meter, if
necessary.
Connect the ZOOM 2 to the transmitter port on the active
equipment under test, as shown at right.
Determine the output wavelength of the active equipment, then
press
until the wavelength on the ZOOM 2 matches.
Receive Power Measurement
The ZOOM 2 may also be used to measure optical power levels from a
transmitter through an installed link to ensure that the Receive power at the
far end is within manufacturer specifications.
Follow the same steps as above, except the ZOOM 2 must be connected to
the active equipment under test through the installed link as shown at right.
5
TEST PROCEDURES
ACTIVE EQUIPMENT POWER MEASUREMENT
Active Equipment
Transmitter Power
Measurement
Receive Power
Measurement
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
dBm
-28.48
850
nm
dBm
-28.48
850
nm
