Optical power meter is very useful and necessary for fiber optic testing. To measure optical power at the transmitter or receiver, it requires an optical power meter, an adapter for the fiber optic connector on the cables used, and the ability to turn on the network electronics.

The optical power meter must be set to the proper range (usually dBm, but sometimes mW) and the proper wavelength when measuring power. When all are ready, attach the optical power meter to the cable at the receiver to measure receiver power, or to a short test cable that is attached to the system source to measure transmitter power. Mark the value, and compare it to the specified power for the system and make sure it is in the acceptable range for the system.

When choose the optical power meter, application, calibrated wavelengths, interface type and measurement range are the factors that must be considered.

Application: Optical power meter can test the absolute optical power in normal fiber optic link and fiber optic devices. However, there are also optical power meters which are designed for special applications, like PON optical power meter and CWDM optical power meter, which can provide fast and easier power measurement for the corresponding applications.

Wavelength Range and Calibrated Wavelengths: Every optical power meter supports a certain range of wavelengths, which are usually ranging from 800nm to 1700nm. If more accurate optical power value is required, it is suggested to calibrate the power meter to the same wavelengths that the devices are running one before testing the optical power. The most commonly used wavelengths are 850nm, 1310nm, 1550nm, etc. Thus, both the supported wavelength range and calibrated wavelengths should be considered.

Measurement Range: The certain range of optical power that an optical power meter can test should also be considered. Generally, -70~+6dB and -50~+26dB are two options.

Interface Type: A length of fiber patch cable is usually used to connect the port on optical power meter with the corresponding port of devices for fiber optic testing. Usually FC, SC, ST or LC types are available.

Optical power meter is an easy-to-use fiber optic testing tool, which can largely increase the working efficiency of technicians. From what has been described in the above content, you may get a basic understanding of optical power meter selection and usage. For Information, welcome to contact us! www.xhfiber.com.