
By measuring the power output power from a calibrated light source, the insertion loss (attenuation) of the link can be quantified and compared to the loss budget.ĭuring the commissioning of a fully powered-on network, an optical power meter is used to validate the output power of the transmission equipment. The OPM is powered on, followed by the OLS, and the correct wavelength is selected.

POWER MEETER PATCH
Patch cords, adapters, or direct connection is used to connect the OPM and OLS to the ends of the fiber link. This capability is particularly useful during the construction phase before system turn on. Control buttons on a standard handheld OPM include power (ON/OFF), wavelength selection, memory functions, unit display, and zero/reference buttons to establish baseline values.Ī fiber power meter can be used in conjunction with an optical light source (OLS) to form an optical loss test set (OLTS). Although setup and operation vary by manufacturer and model, many basic functions of optical power or optical loss testing remain consistent across platforms.

Handheld optical power meters are known for being extremely intuitive and easy to use. During testing, wavelength settings are chosen to match the actual service transmission wavelength. Four of the commonly utilized OPM wavelength settings are 850nm and 1300nm for multimode fiber and 1310nm and 1550nm for single mode fiber. Optical power meters are calibrated to measure the light output accurately at designated wavelengths. In addition to standalone, handheld power meters, OPM functionality is often integrated into more comprehensive optical test solutions such as OTDR equipment. Portable fiber optic power meters are routinely used for the installation, commissioning, and maintenance of fiber network links.

This allows the OPM to determine the average output power level of the light source. An OPM uses a photodiode to generate an electrical current proportional to optical power. An optical power meter (OPM) is a type of electronic test device used to measure the power output of fiber optic equipment or the power or loss of an optical signal transmitted through a fiber cable.
