7
Hints and Tips
72
Transmission Test Set Quick Reference Guide
Avoiding Problems When Making
Measurements
Bit errors can occur due to network defects (such as faulty net-
work elements, damaged optical fiber or dust/dirt particles in
the fiber connections) or problems with the test environ-
ment/setup. Follow the steps below to avoid problems when
making measurements.
To avoid introducing errors when performing tests:
•
Ensure that optical fibres connecting the instrument to the
network are not damaged - check that fibres have not been
crimped.
•
Avoid acute bends in the fibre. Ensure that fibres only have
gentle arcs.
•
If the instrument is left unattended for a long term test,
ensure that the equipment is not in a position where people
will disturb the connecting fibers.
•
Ensure that all fiber connections are clean and dirt-free. Use
a fiberscope to measure the cleanliness of a (unpowered)
fiber. A poorly cleaned fiber results in a drop in power. Alter-
natively, use a power meter (e.g. the instrument’s internal
power meter) to measure the power at the end of a fiber, the
other end of which is connected to the network.
•
Before connection is made, always clean the connector fer-
rule tip with acetone or alcohol using a cotton swab. Dry the
connector with compressed air. Failure to maintain cleanli-
ness of connectors is liable to cause excessive insertion
loss.
•
Ensure that the correct time and date is set on the instru-
ment.
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