New OTDR series released for optical network testing

Yokogawa Test & Measurement Corporation has released the AQ7290 Series optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR), a highly reliable and accurate optical fibre field test instrument that will alleviate the construction and maintenance of rapidly expanding optical communication networks. The device is supplied with new functions that improve operability and workability. Six standard and high-performance models are available in the series, providing a selection of two or three wavelengths to cover a broad range of fibre-optic installation and maintenance measurement needs.

Positioned as the flagship model in the company’s OTDR lineup, the new series has been developed to improve reliability and ease of use during the installation and maintenance of optical fibre networks.

“Field technicians need to make fast and precise measurements with complete confidence,” states Terry Marrinan, VP of Global Sales and Marketing at Yokogawa Test & Measurement. “During our development process, we made sure the new series would be able to provide customers with high levels of reliability, workability, and operability, making the measurement of fibre optics easier than ever before.”

The series is designed for ease of use in the field and features a robust design and stable operation to ensure reliable measurement results even under the harshest field conditions. From a workability perspective, the device is measurement-ready in less than ten seconds after power-on, aiding more efficient workflow.

As well as the conventional control system of rotary knobs and hardware keys, the multi-touch screen supports intuitive operation and improved ease of use through a renewed graphical user interface. Notably, adding a simplified OTDR mode means that even users unfamiliar with OTDR instruments can easily perform measurements with a single button press. In addition, a pop-up window indicates the next operation, reducing the workload for field technicians.

Adding a USB Type-C port for a DC power supply eliminates the necessity for a dedicated AC adapter. The device can also be powered from a USB Power Delivery-compliant mobile battery, making it possible to respond to sudden service calls with complete peace of mind.

Regarding OTDR functionality, the company has improved the dynamic range, allowing measurement over a longer distance. A dynamic range improvement of up to 2dB over the previous-generation AQ7280 Series is now available for all six models in the new series.

Also new is support for high-reflection real-time measurement, in which the quality of the displayed waveform is emphasised, and updates are made while displaying the waveform with high accuracy. This makes it possible to measure the far end of long-distance routes and multi-branch splitters, which were not visible with conventional real-time measurement.

Connectivity has also been enhanced with the AQ7290 Series. By attaching a wireless LAN adapter, technicians can operate and communicate with the OTDR from the office or home through an external terminal. It is also compatible with LTE USB dongles, enabling remote control even without a Wi-Fi router.

Typical applications include optical fibre installation and maintenance, including long-distance fibres that serve as the metro/core network between buildings and cities.