Fiber optic cable has gained immense popularity and replaced copper cable in a short time period. The greatest reason behind this is fast speed and reliable network support. However, these two points are significantly dependent on the proper installation of fiber cables. If the installation is not done in a professional manner, issues like fiber-optic return loss can emerge and disrupt the quality and speed of the network.
What is Optical Return Loss?
The optical return loss is the one in which the accumulated light is reflected back from one point to the source point. This issue mostly emerges due to discontinuity in the connectors. A perfect transmission is only possible when reflected power as well as optical loss; both are zero. On the other hand, when reflected power is not zero, it will give rise to the optical fiber and diminish the quality of the network.
Causes of Optical Return Loss
Optical return loss is one of the most common issues in the fiber optic cable, which majorly emerges due to mishandling and lack of care during installation. Here are some of the other typical causes of optical return loss that you need to watch out for to enjoy a better network.
- Transmitter noise
- Variations in analog and digital systems
- Interference of light source
- Change in laser wavelength
- Transmitter damage
- Low reflection connectors
- Improper use of optical isolators
- Dirty connectors
- Damaged connectors
- Broken fiber pieces
- Misaligned connectors
Dig deeper into this article to explore everything you should know about fiber optical return loss.
Top 5 Methods to Measure Optical Return Loss
An overly simple-seeming difference between launched light and the light reflected back by some device over a specific distance gives rise to the issue of optical return loss. The difference can be carted by even minor issues like dirt on the connector that disrupts the path of the signal; however, it can put a halt to the work of the organizations. Measuring the optical return loss can provide help and support in minimizing the issue and stabilizing the networking.
Here are some of the tried and tested methods you can use to measure optical return loss and improve the quality of your network.
1. OCWR Method
The very first method of measuring the optical return loss is the optical continuous wave reflectometry (OCWR). This is one of the most common and simplest methods used to take the measurement. A basic power meter of launch power is used to check the measurement, which is not even connected with some other device. It can provide substantial support in comparing the optical power that is reflected back.
However, checking the optical return loss through such a manual method requires professional skill and expertise, which everyone might not have. Therefore, most of the users hire the service of fiber optic cable Dubai based companies to get smooth installation and resolve all other issues like optical return loss without any disruption.
2. Time-Domain Method
The time-domain method is another commonly used method for the measurement of optical return loss. This particular system is technology-based, in which the reflection measurements are recorded at the test and performance ends. This method significantly depends on the software, which is quite effective and reliable too.
3. Discrete Mode
Discrete mode is another technology and software-based method to measure the optical return loss. In this particular method, a discrete window is set to measure the finite resolution. The value is most often kept at the minimum to record the measurement effectively. In addition to it, if there are multiple reflections in the window, only the highest one will be reported.
4. Integral Mode
Another important method used to measure the optical return loss is the integral mode. This method is also based on technology and uses the window setting to calculate the return loss. However, in this case, the measurement is not kept low but at a specific limit. The value can be slightly different, so you have to be careful while taking measurements.
5. OTDR Measurement
The last method that you can utilize to measure the optical return loss is the optical time-domain Reflectometer (OTDR) method. Unlike OCWR, this method focuses on connecting the cable with the OTDR device. The light received by the device tallies to the reflected lights, which helps in calculating the return loss.
Professional skill and expertise are also required to use the optical time-domain Reflectometer. So, avoid experimenting if you do not know who these things work. Instead, you can hire experts from fiber optical cable Dubai-based companies and ensure to resolve all the hindrances and issues in smooth connectivity.
Trust the Professionals for Perfect Measurements!
Optical return loss can create hurdles in your smooth functioning by disrupting the network. So, pay attention to limiting it. If you lack the technical knowledge and skills, do not experiment. Contact the professionals to get perfect installation and fix all your issue to enjoy perfect connectivity.
