Optical-Loss Assembly Test Set Targets Multifiber Optical Cables

Aug. 4, 2003

The model 1300 optical-loss test set from Fiber Systems International tests and verifies the performance of multifiber optic cable assemblies like the TFOCA (Tactical Optic Fiber Connector Assembly), the TFOCA-II, MIL-C-28876 connectors, and standard hermaphroditic fiber-optic connectors. It performs automatic loopback testing in dBm and dB modes with relative storage. Its input range is +5 to −70 dBm (an indium-gallium-arsenide detector). The set has two optical sources and two power meters in a single unit with an integral interface connector.

Besides the test set, a basic model 1300 includes a loopback plug, an ac power adapter/recharger, four interchangeable ac adapter plugs, and a rugged foam-filled case. Option 1 offers a cleaning kit with 50 optic cleaning pads, 50 swabs, and foam cleaning fluid. Option 2 incorporates a breakout cable and fault finder. The light source/power meter uses four rechargeable 1.5-V AA batteries. A 90- to 264-V, 47- to 63-Hz ac adapter with four interchangeable international-standard plugs (U.S., Europe, U.K., Australia) is also provided. The unit with carrying case costs $3750.

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Fiber Systems Internationalwww.fibersystems.com

About the Author

Roger Allan

Roger Allan is an electronics journalism veteran, and served as Electronic Design's Executive Editor for 15 of those years. He has covered just about every technology beat from semiconductors, components, packaging and power devices, to communications, test and measurement, automotive electronics, robotics, medical electronics, military electronics, robotics, and industrial electronics. His specialties include MEMS and nanoelectronics technologies. He is a contributor to the McGraw Hill Annual Encyclopedia of Science and Technology. He is also a Life Senior Member of the IEEE and holds a BSEE from New York University's School of Engineering and Science. Roger has worked for major electronics magazines besides Electronic Design, including the IEEE Spectrum, Electronics, EDN, Electronic Products, and the British New Scientist. He also has working experience in the electronics industry as a design engineer in filters, power supplies and control systems.

After his retirement from Electronic Design Magazine, He has been extensively contributing articles for Penton’s Electronic Design, Power Electronics Technology, Energy Efficiency and Technology (EE&T) and Microwaves RF Magazine, covering all of the aforementioned electronics segments as well as energy efficiency, harvesting and related technologies. He has also contributed articles to other electronics technology magazines worldwide.

He is a “jack of all trades and a master in leading-edge technologies” like MEMS, nanolectronics, autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence, military electronics, biometrics, implantable medical devices, and energy harvesting and related technologies.