How to judge the optical fiber connector

Optical fiber connectors are used to join two fiber optic cables together. They are essential for optical fiber communication systems, as they allow for efficient and reliable transmission of light signals. However, like any other component of an optical fiber system, connectors can suffer from various issues such as poor connection and high insertion loss. In this article, we will discuss how to judge the quality of an optical fiber connector.

Visual Inspection

Visual inspection is the first step in checking the quality of an optical fiber connector. It is essential to use a fiber optic microscope to inspect the connector end face. The microscope provides high magnification and a clear view of the connector end face. The following are some of the key things to look out for during visual inspection:

a) Scratches: Scratches are tiny marks on the surface of the connector end face. They can occur during installation or due to poor handling. Scratches can affect the performance of the connector by increasing the insertion loss. Scratches can also lead to premature failure of the connector.

b) Chips: Chips are small pieces of the connector end face that have been chipped off. Chips can occur due to poor handling or impact. Chips can also increase the insertion loss and affect the performance of the connector.

c) Contamination: Contamination is one of the most common problems that affect optical fiber connectors. Dirt, dust, and other particles can accumulate on the connector end face, leading to increased insertion loss and reduced performance. Contamination can be easily detected by visual inspection using a fiber optic microscope.

Insertion Loss Testing

Insertion loss testing is a critical step in checking the quality of an optical fiber connector. Insertion loss refers to the power loss that occurs when light travels through a connector. High insertion loss can affect the performance of the optical fiber system. A power meter and light source can be used to measure the insertion loss of an optical fiber connector. The following are the steps involved in insertion loss testing:

a) Connect the light source to the connector on one end of the cable and the power meter to the connector on the other end.

b) Switch on the light source and take a reading from the power meter. This reading represents the power of the light signal entering the connector.

c) Disconnect the connector on one end of the cable and connect a reference cable to the light source.

d) Connect the reference cable to the power meter and take a reading. This reading represents the power of the light signal exiting the reference cable.

e) Subtract the reading from step d from the reading from step b. The result is the insertion loss of the connector.

Return Loss Testing

Return loss testing is another critical step in checking the quality of an optical fiber connector. Return loss refers to the amount of light reflected back towards the light source due to poor connector end face polishing or poor connector mating. High return loss can affect the performance of the optical fiber system. A visual fault locator and an optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) can be used to measure the return loss of an optical fiber connector. The following are the steps involved in return loss testing:

a) Connect the visual fault locator to one end of the cable and switch it on.

b) Inspect the connector end face using a fiber optic microscope. Look for any reflections or irregularities on the end face.

c) Connect the OTDR to the other end of the cable and switch it on.

d) Measure the return loss using the OTDR. The result is the amount of light reflected back towards the light source.

Interference Testing

Interference testing is another method of checking the quality of an optical fiber connector. Interference can occur due to a variety of factors such as crosstalk and electromagnetic interference. Interference can affect the performance of the optical fiber.