EXFO FTBx-720D LAN/WAN access OTDR Software User Guide
- June 1, 2024
- EXFO
Table of Contents
- EXFO FTBx-720D LAN/WAN access OTDR Software
- KEY FEATURES
- APPLICATIONS
- RELATED PRODUCTS AND ACCESSORIES
- LOADED WITH FEATURES TO BOOST YOUR EFFICIENCY
- TROUBLESHOOTING HIGH-SPEED MULTIMODE NETWORKS WITH ENCIRCLED FLUX
- LOOKING FOR ICON-BASED MAPPING?
- iOLM features value pack and options
- FIBER CONNECTOR INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION
- SOFTWARE TEST TOOLS
- GET ALL ADVANCED CAPABILITIES FOR FREE
- KEY BENEFITS
- SIMPLE SETUP IN THREE STEPS
- SPECIFICATIONS
- ORDERING INFORMATION
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
EXFO FTBx-720D LAN/WAN access OTDR Software
Purpose-built construction OTDRs for everyday field testing in any access network. With an intelligent Optical Link Mapper (iOLM) application for both singlemode and multimode testing, this is the most automated and intelligent troubleshooting tool for FTTA, LAN and data centers.
KEY FEATURES
- Dynamic range of up to 36 dB in singlemode (SM) and 29 dB in multimode (MM)
- Event dead zone (EDZ) / Attenuation dead zone (ADZ): 0.7/2.5 m in SM; 0.5/2 m in MM, PON dead zone 35 m
- Live and dark fiber characterization, troubleshooting and activation through the same OTDR port
- SM and quad SM/MM versions available version
- FTTx in-service testing at 1650 nm with optional in-line GPON/ XGS-PON power meter
- Swap-Out connector, replaceable whenever necessary for optimal performance over time without undue service cost and downtime
- iOLM-ready: one-touch multiple acquisitions, with clear go/no-go results presented in a straightforward visual format
- 3-year warranty
APPLICATIONS
- Access network construction and troubleshooting
- FTTx/PON testing through splitters (up to 1×32)
- FTTx service activation: GPON, EPON, XGS-PON, 10GE EPON
- Central office link certification
- Data center and private networks (Tier-2 certification)
- LAN/WAN characterization
- Fronthaul/backhaul (FTTA, FTTT, RRH, DAS and small cells)
RELATED PRODUCTS AND ACCESSORIES
LOADED WITH FEATURES TO BOOST YOUR EFFICIENCY
-
Real-time averaging
Activates the OTDR laser in continuous shooting mode, the trace refreshes in real time and allows to monitor the fiber for a sudden change. Perfect for a quick overview of the fiber under test. -
Set parameters on the fly
Dynamically change OTDR settings for the ongoing acquisition without stopping or returning to submenus. -
Auto mode
Used as a discovery mode, this feature automatically adjusts the distance range and the pulse width in function of the link under test. It is recommended to adjust the parameters to perform additional measurements to locate other events. -
Zoom tools
Zoom and center to facilitate the analysis of your fibers.
Draw a window around the area of interest and center in the screen quicker. -
Macrobend finder
This built-in feature enables the unit to automatically locate and identify macrobends, no need to spend further time analyzing the traces. -
Data center cable certification (iCERT a)
iCERT option turns the iOLM into an intelligent tier-2 certifier with automated pass/fail thresholds for SM/MM cables, helping fiber installers to certify or troubleshoot any enterprise or datacenter network according to the recognized international standards (including TIA-568, ISO 11801). -
Bidirectional analysis
Recommended to ensure true splice characterization, bidirectional analysis combines results from both directions to provide an average loss for each event. For a more complete event characterization, use iOLM and benefit from maximum resolution on both directions (multiple pulse widths at multiple wavelengths) as well as a consolidated view.
TROUBLESHOOTING HIGH-SPEED MULTIMODE NETWORKS WITH ENCIRCLED FLUX
Whether for expanding enterprise-class businesses or large-volume data centers, new high-speed data networks built with multimode fibers are running under tighter tolerances than ever before. In the event of failure, intelligent and accurate test tools are needed to quickly find and fix the fault.
Multimode fibers are the trickiest links to test, because the test results are highly dependent on each device’s output conditions. Troubleshooting with a unit other than the construction unit may mislead the technician or result in the inability to find the fault, creating longer network downtimes.
For multimode fibers, EXFO recommends using an external launch mode conditioner that is Encircled Flux (EF)-compliant. The EF standard (as recommended in TIA-568 via TIA-526-14-B and IEC 61280-4-1 Ed. 2.0) is a way of controlling the source launch conditions so that tier-2 troubleshooting can be performed with maximum accuracy and consistency.
LOOKING FOR ICON-BASED MAPPING?
Linear view (included with all EXFO OTDRs)
Available on our OTDRs since 2006, the linear view simplifies the reading
of an OTDR trace by displaying icons in a linear way for each wavelength. This
view converts the graph data points obtained from a traditional single pulse
trace into reflective or non‑reflective icons. With applied pass/fail
thresholds, it becomes easier to pinpoint faults on your link.
This improved version of linear view provides the flexibility to display both the OTDR graph and its linear view without having to toggle to analyze your fiber link.
Although this linear view simplifies the OTDR reading of a single pulse width’s trace, the user will still need to set the OTDR parameters. In addition, multiple traces must often be performed in order to fully characterize the fiber links. See the section below to learn how the iOLM can perform this automatically and with more accurate results.
iOLM—REMOVING THE COMPLEXITY FROM OTDR TESTING
In response to these challenges, EXFO developed a better way to test fiber optics: The iOLM is an OTDR-based application designed to simplify OTDR testing by eliminating the need to configure parameters, and/or analyze and interpret multiple complex OTDR traces. Its advanced algorithms dynamically define the testing parameters, as well as the number of acquisitions that best fit the network under test. By correlating multipulse widths on multiple wavelengths, the iOLM locates and identifies faults with maximum resolution—all at the push of a single button.
How does it work?
Three ways to benefit from the iOLM
iOLM features value pack and options
In addition to the standard iOLM feature set, you can select added-value features as part of the Advanced or Pro packages, or standalone options. Please refer to the iOLM specification sheet for the complete and most recent description of these features.
iOLM Standard
- Dynamic multipulse multi-wavelength acquisition
- Intelligent traces analysis and diagnostics
- Single link view and event table
- SOR trace generation
- Single iOLM file per link for easy reporting
- Optimode: Short-link close events, fast short link, fast medium range
iOLM Advanced (iADV) a
- Real-time OTDR
- SOR pulse and wavelength editor (up to 3)
- SOR trace view
- Custom elements
- Advanced link edition and re-analysis
- 2:N splitter characterization
- Optimode: SFP-safe troubleshooting b
iLOOP a
- iOLM loopback (uni- or bidirectional)
- iOLM automated bidirectional analysis over TestFlow b, c
iCERT a
Cabling certification option
FIBER CONNECTOR INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION
THE ESSENTIAL FIRST STEP BEFORE ANY OTDR TESTING
Taking the time to properly inspect a fiber-optic connector using an EXFO
fiber inspection scope can prevent a host of issues from arising further down
the line, thus saving you time, money and trouble. Moreover, using a fully
automated solution with autofocus capabilities will turn this critical
inspection phase into a fast and hassle‑free one-step process.
Did you know that the connector of your OTDR/iOLM is also critical?
The presence of a dirty connector at an OTDR port or launch cable can
negatively impact your test results, and even cause permanent damage during
mating. Therefore, it is critical to regularly inspect these connectors to
ensure that they are free of any contamination.
Making inspection the first step of your OTDR best practices will maximize the
performances of your OTDR and your efficiency.
FEATURES | USB WIRED | WIRELESS | AUTONOMOUS |
---|---|---|---|
FIP-430B | FIP-435B | FIP-500 | |
Image capture | • | • | • |
Five-megapixel CMOS capturing device | • | • | • |
Automatic fiber image‑centering function and focus adjustment | • | • |
•
On‑board pass/fail analysis| •| •| •
Pass/fail LED indicator| •| •| •
USB connectivity to an EXFO platform or PC| •| •|
Wireless connectivity to an EXFO platform or PC| | •|
Wireless connectivity to a smartphone| | •| •
Manual scanning for multifiber / MPO connectors| •| •|
Semi‑automated multifiber / MPO inspection| •| •|
Fully automated multifiber / MPO inspection| | | •
On‑board touch screen| | | •
SmarTips with automated thresholds| | | •
Quick‑connect mechanism| | | •
For more information, visit www.EXFO.com/fiberinspection
AVAILABLE IN THE FTB-1V2/FTB-1 PRO, FTB-2/FTB-2 PRO AND FTB-4 PRO
PLATFORMS
The EXFO FTB platforms are the most compact solutions on the market for
multirate, multitechnology, multiservice testing, delivering all the power of
a high-end platform in a conveniently sized, go-anywhere field-testing tool.
Do more with the EXFO FTB platform
The Windows 10 operating system allows for a wide choice of third-party
applications and supports an extensive range of USB devices.
- Start faster and multitask
- Use any office suite
- Connect to printers, cameras, keyboards, mice, and more
Bring your own apps
- Share your desktop (e.g., using TeamViewer)
- Antivirus software
- Communicate via email services and over‑the‑top (OTT) apps
- Record and automate actions
- Share files via cloud-based storage
SOFTWARE TEST TOOLS
This series of platform-based software testing tools enhance the value of the
FTB-1v2/FTB-1 Pro, FTB-2/FTB-2 Pro and FTB-4 Pro platforms, providing
additional testing capabilities without the need for additional modules or
units.
EXpert Test Tools
EXpert VoIP generates a voice-over-IP call directly from the test platform to validate performance during service turn-up and troubleshooting.
- Supports a wide range of signaling protocols, including SIP, SCCP, H.248/Megaco and H.323
- Supports mean-opinion-score (MOS) and R-factor quality metrics
- Simplifies testing with configurable pass/fail thresholds and RTP metrics
EXpert IP integrates six commonly used datacom test tools into one platform- based application to ensure that field technicians are prepared for a wide range of testing needs.
- Rapidly performs debugging sequences with VLAN scan and LAN discovery
- Validates end-to-end ping and traceroute
- Verifies file-transfer-protocol (FTP) performance and hypertext-transfer-protocol (HTTP) availability
This powerful Internet-protocol-television (IPTV) quality assessment solution enables set-top box emulation and passive monitoring of IPTV streams, allowing for quick and easy pass/fail verification of IPTV installations.
- Real-time video preview
- Analyzes up to 10 video streams
- Comprehensive quality-of-service (QoS) and quality-of-experience (QoE) metrics, including the MOS score
Automate asset management. Push test data in the cloud. Get connected.
EXFO Connect pushes and stores test equipment and test-data content
automatically in the cloud, allowing you to streamline test operation from
build-out to maintenance.
GET ALL ADVANCED CAPABILITIES FOR FREE
FastReporter is a consolidated data management and post-processing solution
designed to improve results quality as well as auditing and reporting
productivity.
Download the latest version of FastReporter, launch the application and create
your EXFO Exchange account to get the full range of capabilities, at no cost.
EXFO Exchange automates and optimizes workflows, troubleshooting, field
testing and reporting within a secured collaborative software platform for
each step of network deployment.
FEATURES | FastReporter (version 3) |
---|---|
Basic |
account)
Number of files| Up to 24 results| Unlimited
Measurement type| OTDR, iOLM, FIP, OLTS, OPM, CD, PMD
Results viewer| •| •
Reporting – Basic (PDF)| •| •
Reporting – Advanced (Excel, PDF, custom)| | •
Basic analysis – Bidir (OTDR and iOLM)| •| •
Advanced editing| | •
Automated validation and results correction| | •
Job management and identification edition| One file| Batch processing
Hundreds of additional features| | •
KEY BENEFITS
SIMPLE SETUP IN THREE STEPS
-
Create your free EXFO Exchange account
Begin your journey by creating an EXFO Exchange account. Setting up your account is quick and easy. -
Install the mobile app
Download the EXFO Exchange app to allow test data from compatible EXFO devices to be uploaded securely to the cloud (free of charge). -
Save time and boost efficiency
Once your account created-and the mobile app installed and paired with compatible EXFO devices-all test results will be sent to the cloud. On the web app, you will see field test results from all invited testers.
SPECIFICATIONS
All specifications valid at 23 °C ± 2 °C with an FC/APC connector, unless otherwise specified.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Wavelength (nm) a| 850 ± 20/1300 ± 20/1310 ± 30/1550 ± 30/1650 ± 15
Live wavelength (nm)| 1650
Isolation: 50 dB from 1265 nm to 1617 nm
Dynamic range (dB) b| 27, 29, 36, 35, 35
Event dead zone (m) c| SM: 0.7| MM: 0.5
Attenuation dead zone (m)| SM: 2.5 d| MM: 2 e
PON dead zone (m) f| 35
Distance range (km)| SM: 0.1 to 260| MM: 0.5 to 40
Pulse width (ns)| SM: 3 to 20 000| MM: 3 to 1000
MM launch conditions g| EF‑compliant
Linearity (dB/dB)| ±0.03
Loss threshold (dB)| 0.01
Loss resolution (dB)| 0.001
Sampling resolution (m)| SM: 0.04 to 10| MM: 0.04 to 5
Sampling points| Up to 256 000
Distance uncertainty (m) h| ±(0.75 + 0.0025 % x distance + sampling
resolution)
Measurement time| User-defined (maximum: 60 minutes)
Reflectance accuracy (dB) a| ±2
Typical real‑time refresh (Hz)| 3
IN-LINE POWER CHECKER
Power range (dBm)| –60 to 23
Power uncertainty (dB) i, j| ±0.5
Calibrated wavelengths (nm)| 1310, 1490, 1550, 1625, 1650
Selectable wavelengths (nm)| 1310, 1490, 1550, 1577, 1625, 1650
Tone detection| 270 Hz, 330 Hz, 1 kHz, 2 kHz
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS (in-line PON power meter with OPM2 in
option) a, k
Power range (dBm)| –60 to 23
PON power meter (nm)| Two channels: 1490/1550 and 1490/1577
Power uncertainty (dB)| ±0.5
Calibrated wavelengths (nm)| 1310, 1490, 1550, 1625, 1650
Selectable wavelengths (nm)| 1310, 1490, 1550, 1577, 1625, 1650, 1490/1550,
1490/1577
SOURCE
Output power (dBm) b| SM: –8| MM: –2
Modulation| CW, 330 Hz, 1 kHz, 2 kHz|
- a. Typical.
- b. Typical dynamic range with longest pulse and three-minute averaging at SNR = 1.
- c. Typical, for reflectance of –55 dB in SM and –45 dB in MM.
- d. Typical, for reflectance at –55 dB, using a 3-ns pulse.
- e. Typical, for reflectance at –45 dB, using a 3-ns pulse.
- f. Non-reflective FUT, non-reflective splitter, 13-dB loss, 50-ns pulse, typical value.
- g. Compliant with Encircled Flux TIA-526-14-B and IEC 61280-4-1 Ed. 2.0 using an external EF conditioner (SPSB-EF-C-30).
- h. Does not include uncertainty due to fiber index.
- i. At calibrated wavelengths.
- j. Requires a good entry connector’s health.
- k. Specifications valid when OTDR not in operation or in idle mode.
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
Size (H x W x D)| | 158 mm x 24 mm x 174 mm (6 ¼ in x 15/16 in x 6 7/8 in)
Weight| | 0.4 kg (0.9 lb)
Temperature| Operating Storage| Refer to platform’s specification sheet
–40 °C to 70 °C (–40 °F to 158 °F)
Relative humidity| | 0% to 95% non-condensing
ORDERING INFORMATION
a. The two ports are configured with the same adapter.
b. Available with SM8 model.
c. Please refer to the iOLM specification sheet for the complete and most
recent description of these value packs
d. MM connectors available in El (UPC) only.
EI CONNECTORS
To maximize the performance of your OTDR, EXFO recommends using APC
connectors on SM port. These connectors generate lower reflectance, which is a
critical parameter that affects performance, particularly in dead zones. APC
connectors provide better performance than UPC connectors, thereby improving
testing efficiency.
Note : UPC connectors are also available. Simply replace EA-XX by EI-XX in the ordering part number. Additional connector available: EI-EUI-90 (UPC/ST).
EXFO serves over 2000 customers in more than 100 countries. To find your local office contact details, please go to www.EXFO.com/contact.
For the most recent patent marking information, please visit www.EXFO.com/patent EXFO is certified ISO 9001 and attests to the quality of these products. EXFO has made every effort to ensure that the information contained in this specification sheet is accurate. However, we accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions, and we reserve the right to modify design, characteristics and products at any time without obligation. Units of measurement in this document conform to SI standards and practices. In addition, all of EXFO’s manufactured products are compliant with the European Union’s WEEE directive. For more information, please visit www.EXFO.com/recycle. Contact EXFO for prices and availability or to obtain the phone number of your local EXFO distributor.
For the most recent version of this spec sheet, please go to
www.EXFO.com/specs
In case of discrepancy, the web version takes precedence over any printed
literature.
References
- Contact | EXFO
- So You Think Fiber Inspection is a Hassle? | Video | EXFO
- Virtual patent marking | EXFO
- Environmental, social and governance (ESG) impact at EXFO | EXFO
- Technical documentation | Resources | EXFO
- EXFO Exchange
- EXFO Exchange: Cloud-based test automation, contractor management and data insights
- iOLM | Link Characterization | Optical Fiber Testing | OTDR Trace | Loopback