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Guide to using and Selecting the Right Launch Fibers for OTDR Test Sets

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Guide to using and Selecting the Right Launch Fibers for OTDR Test Sets

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  • Author: Martin Warne
OTDRs are often used with a launch fiber/cable, and may also use a receive fiber/cable. The launch cable, sometimes called a “pulse suppressor” or “dummy fiber,” allows the OTDR to recover after the test pulse is sent into the fiber. This cable also provides an invaluable reference on the first connector of the cable under test for determining its loss and reflectance. Typically, the first connector is the connector on the optical distribution frame (ODF) or patch panel. A receive cable may be used on the far end to enable measurements of the connector (loss and reflectance) on the end of the cable under test as well, which will in turn confirm the continuity of the fiber under test.

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