The test and measurement business of Yokogawa has launched three new optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) modules for its AQ7280 series. These new modules expand the range of applications that the Yokogawa AQ7280 OTDR can address.
The Yokogawa AQ7280 OTDR satisfies a broad range of test and measurement needs when analysing optical networks, and is designed to enable field technicians to make fast and precise measurements of optical fibres with confidence.
The three new modules are;
- AQ7283E: for OTDR measurements at 1625nm over ‘live fibres’ (fibres where live transmissions are being carried). The new module includes a filter to eliminate the shorter wavelengths used for data transmission which might otherwise disturb OTDR testing.
- AQ7283J: for ‘water-peak’ testing of optical fibres. This test is important for optical cable manufacturers and those wishing to test the suitability of already deployed fibres for coarse wavelength division multiplexing (CWDM) transmissions (for example, in cable television applications). The AQ7283J specifically tests at 1383nm which is a wavelength absorbed by water ions (OH) contained in optical fibres as a result of the manufacturing process - for CWDM transmissions the fibre should be a low-water peak type.
- AQ7282G: for use during installation of fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) networks requiring measurement at 1490nm. The module is able to measure three wavelengths – 1310, 1490 and 1550 nm – via a single port. This provides a cost-effective alternative to the existing AQ7283K module, which is a four-wavelength model.
In addition, Yokogawa has also released an upgrade for the existing AQ7282M module which can now be equipped with a multi-mode stabilised light source emitting at 850 and 1300nm for an extended range of tests.
Terry Marrinan, VP of sales and marketing at Yokogawa Europe BV, said: ‘The AQ7280 series OTDR has become established as one of the best OTDRs on the market and is widely used across a range of optical fibre applications. These new modules underline and demonstrate our determination to make it the not only the easiest to use and most reliable OTDR, but also the most useful available today.’