Increasing bandwidths in LAN and fibre optic cabling means that more in-depth testing and certification of networks is now required. The 33-960 Series of Micro OTDRs from IDEAL INDUSTRIES are designed for the installation and troubleshooting of LAN, campus and WAN fibre networks. The combination of precise measurement, a one-button 'Autotest' function for ease-of-use, and short attenuation and Event Dead Zones, results in a unit that provides accurate characterisation of connectors and splices, as well as fast and reliable fault location - even on the shortest of network links.

The options available on the 33-960 Series include the 33-962-5 Certifying OTDR option. This provides the user with a full certifying instrument with clear 'PASS/FAIL' indications for every link. Distance, loss and Optical Return Loss (ORL) for each event are reported in a trace summary table, making full certification of the link possible. The unit is therefore ideal for Tier-2 certification of enterprise networks.

Amongst other options and accessories is the important video inspection probe. IDEAL INDUSTRIES' European General Manager Tony Kumeta comments: "Dirty connectors is one of the primary reason for failures in fibre optic networks. The 33-962-1 video inspection probe helps users document and troubleshoot fibre optic installations, by providing visual inspection of connectors. Unlike optical microscopes, video probes offer 100% eyesight protection, as well as the ability to store connector images on the OTDR, for later download to a PC via the unit's USB port."

Other key features include a Manual Mode that enables users to define all test parameters and a Real-Time mode for troubleshooting and identification of intermittent problems. Alternatively, the 'Auto Test' function can be used. The instrument automatically selects the optimum test configuration for the link being tested, thereby helping users of all levels to obtain accurate and meaningful test results.

The 33-962-5 option also includes a Macro Bend Detector, which was developed to help users pinpoint areas along a single mode fibre where the bend radius is too small. This feature is particularly useful when troubleshooting at splicing cassettes or patch cords, where macro bends can cause excessive attenuation. Without this option, macro bends are very difficult to detect or are often confused with splices.

The 33-960 Series is available as either an 850/1300nm (multimode) or 850/1300/1310/1550nm (multimode and single mode) OTDR. Each unit comes in a kit containing ruggedised carry case, PC software, rechargeable batteries and wall charger. PC software is included as standard, with reports in BellcoreTM format. The units also come with interchangeable fibre adaptors, with a wide variety of available configurations.