Accuracy automated optical time domain reflectometry optical return loss measurements using a “Smart” Test Fiber Module
US7016024B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 18, 2004 |
| Grant date | Mar 21, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 9, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01M11/3109
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The invention provides automated systems and methods for measuring ORL of fibers under test. A computer-based test instrument using OTDR tests fibers with the help of a STFM having predefined characteristics that are recorded in a machine-readable memory. The information recorded in the memory is accessible to the computer-based instrument and is used to calibrate a power level of an illumination source in real time using the reflectance response of the STFM. The calibrated illumination power allows the instrument to automatically determine the ORL of the fiber being tested with precision, and without requiring the intervention of an operator. The instrument also has the capability to automatically sense the presence of a test fiber, and to automatically attenuate the reflectance signal to remove a saturation condition by controlling at least one of the illumination, the detector gain, an amplifier gain, and an optional in-line optical attenuator.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.