MATTEHW PEACH NETWORK TESTING
performance. Recent advancements in camera technology will improve connector visibility and sophisticated PASS/FAIL algorithms will help educate users. These new tools should bring the need for cleaning into focus as dirt will no longer be able to breed in the shadows.” The OTDR, that workhorse of network installers and maintenance teams, will continue to prove invaluable in an increasing number of applications. Says Cole, “Thanks to improvements in optical performance and resolution short dead zones can decipher faults in spans that are tens of meters. This will o er real benefit to those working inside data centres or installing drop cables in FTTH networks. “What’s more, users will continue to see improvements in the way results are presented. Colorful maps displaying connectors, splices and splitters shaded red or green based on pre-defined limits will help guide novice network operators and service managers through the learning curve. Whilst additional tools such as built-in power meters, light sources and inspection scopes will assist in fault location.” BUSINESS PERFORMANCE Reflecting growing demand for such capabilities, AFL‘s Test & Inspection business experienced growth in 2016 with strong performance in North
America and EMEA, says Cole. “During the past year, we launched a series of new products including FlexScan PON OTDR, Rogue Carrier, Turbo OLTS/CERT module and aeRos Workflow and Data Management Solution. These products are the result of rigorous research and development forming the basis for further releases during 2017.” AFL conducted a successful trial of Rogue and aeRos in southwest Sweden, which resulted in its first order. Rogue and aeRos were used by a contractor to test a municipal FTTH network prior to service delivery. Using the Turbo OLTS module in the Rogue platform the contractor was able to provide critical measurements such as optical insertion loss, return loss and length. Additionally through the use of aeRos, the project manager could control the entire test process. Looking ahead, Cole comments, “2017 promises another exciting year for fibre optic cable testing. In particular, it will be interesting to see what impact Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) technologies have in access and enterprise networks. Could the introduction of Shortwave Wavelength Division Multiplexing (SWDM) and NG-PON2 trigger growth for optical channel analyzers and checkers? This is certainly a question for the future as we continue to find new ways to push those humble strands of glass that light our industry.”
We may also see increased need for optical return loss measurements as networks are challenged with supporting a growing number of technologies. Cole adds, “The need for fibre optic
inspection will continue to gain importance as operators begin to
understand and find ways to measure the impact of contamination on network
Date for your diary.. Exhibition 18 - 20 September 2017 Gothia Towers, Gothenburg Sweden ‘The largest European Optical Communications Event’ www.ecocexhibition.com
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ISSUE 8 | Q1 2017
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