AFL Blog

5 Best Practices for Certifying Next Generation Networks: A Suitable Test Reference Method

To assure the most accurate loss measurements when testing a link, the use of Reference Grade cables during the referencing process is critical to ensure accuracy, repeatability and reproducibility.

5 Best Practices for Certifying Next Generation Networks: Bi-Directional Measurements

While a single direction loss measurement method is initially quicker and cheaper, a bi-directional method is preferable for more reliable overall network characterization, since it significantly reduces the likelihood of rework and associated costs.

5 Best Practices for Certifying Next Generation Networks: Encircled Flux

For multimode fiber, launch conditions or how light is coupled into a fiber can have a significant effect on optical loss measurements.

5 Best Practices for Certifying Next Generation Networks: Cleaning and Inspection

Proper cleaning minimizes damage to connectors and equipment, helps provide accurate loss measurements and ensures the network will operate properly.

5 Best Practices for Certifying Next Generation Networks

As transmission speeds have increased on multimode fibers, loss budgets have decreased significantly, allowing little margin for error.