EXFO positions Optical Xplorer as optical fiber multimeter
The Optical Xplorer offers automated single-ended testing of the targeted link, presenting fiber length, loss, and optical return loss figures in less than 3 seconds. In addition to providing performance measurements, the unit uses the EXFO Advisor feature to provide a rating of 1 to 5 stars, based on algorithms EXFO preprograms at the factory. While technical team managers cannot change the rating parameters, they can instruct technicians on the minimal acceptable rating for a given application, EXFO says. Meanwhile, should the instrument detect a problem, it will automatically launch the Fault Xplorer function, which offers fault diagnostic capabilities that will uncover whether the fault lies with such common problem sources as fiber breaks, macrobends, bad splices, faulty connectors, etc. A Link Mapper feature, available on the PRO version, provides a more detailed look at connection points within the link to provide a more descriptive fault location reading. Both Basic and PRO version of the instrument are available in Installation (1310/1550 nm) or Maintenance (filtered 1650 nm) models.
The Optical Xplorer is intended for use on single-mode fiber links up to 40 km point-to-point. The company sees the Optical Xplorer as particularly useful in FTTx applications. EXFO says use of the Optical Xplorer enables front-line technicians to diagnose common faults without having to call in OTDR-equipped Tier 2 technicians, thus saving money. Other opex saving features include a field replaceable and patented Click-Out optical connector for the unit, lifetime calibration, and a rechargeable battery that supports 10 hours of use on a single charge.
“Too often, frontline technicians are equipped with test tools that are a compromise between cost, complexity and functionality,” said Stéphane Chabot, EXFO’s vice-president, Test and Measurement. “With our customers’ challenges in mind, we developed a revolutionary new fiber testing solution that’s easy to use—tailor-made for frontline field technicians, no matter their level of expertise. Optical Xplorer will help operators and contractors accelerate ROI, improve first-time-right metrics and increase customer satisfaction by equipping their technicians with a purpose-built tool and leaner methods of procedure.”
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Stephen Hardy | Editorial Director and Associate Publisher, Lightwave
Stephen Hardy is editorial director and associate publisher of Lightwave and Broadband Technology Report, part of the Lighting & Technology Group at Endeavor Business Media. Stephen is responsible for establishing and executing editorial strategy across the both brands’ websites, email newsletters, events, and other information products. He has covered the fiber-optics space for more than 20 years, and communications and technology for more than 35 years. During his tenure, Lightwave has received awards from Folio: and the American Society of Business Press Editors (ASBPE) for editorial excellence. Prior to joining Lightwave in 1997, Stephen worked for Telecommunications magazine and the Journal of Electronic Defense.
Stephen has moderated panels at numerous events, including the Optica Executive Forum, ECOC, and SCTE Cable-Tec Expo. He also is program director for the Lightwave Innovation Reviews and the Diamond Technology Reviews.
He has written numerous articles in all aspects of optical communications and fiber-optic networks, including fiber to the home (FTTH), PON, optical components, DWDM, fiber cables, packet optical transport, optical transceivers, lasers, fiber optic testing, and more.
You can connect with Stephen on LinkedIn as well as Twitter.