Is the EXFO tester an optical power meter

EXFO optical power meters provide precise, fast, and versatile measurement of optical power for fiber networks, supporting both lab and field applications, including MPO link testing.

Overview of EXFO Power Meters

EXFO offers a range of modular and benchtop optical power meters designed for high performance and pinpoint accuracy in both laboratory and field environments ( ). These meters are essential for technicians installing, maintaining, or certifying fiber networks, measuring optical power, loss, length, and polarity quickly and reliably. Models include general-purpose meters and specialized devices optimized for singlemode, multimode, and PON networks ( ).

Key Features

• High Accuracy and Speed: EXFO meters provide fast, accurate measurements, often in under a second per fiber, with low uncertainty ( ).
• Dual-Wavelength Testing: Many models support testing at multiple wavelengths (e.g., 1310/1550 nm for singlemode) to comply with industry standards ( ).
• MPO Testing: The PXM/LXM MPO Loss Test Set allows rapid testing of MPO-12 links, measuring loss, polarity, and length in just 1 second per link. It includes a visual fault locator (VFL) for tracing fibers and locating macrobends or breaks ( ).
• Connector Compatibility: Hybrid contactless connectors support both APC and UPC types, accommodating multimode and singlemode fibers ( ).
• Portability and Field Use: Devices feature lithium-ion batteries for up to 8 hours of continuous use, capacitive color touchscreens for visibility in various lighting conditions, and Bluetooth connectivity for mobile device integration ( ).
• Software Integration: Measurements can be exported to FastReporter software for post-processing, reporting, and documentation ( ).

Testing Procedure

1. Connect the Fiber: Attach the fiber under test to the power meter input, ensuring proper alignment with APC or UPC connectors.
2. Select Wavelength: Choose the appropriate wavelength(s) for testing (e.g., 1310/1550 nm for singlemode).
3. Measure Power or Loss: Use CW mode for continuous power measurement or FasTesT mode for rapid MPO link testing. The meter will display power levels, insertion loss, and polarity per fiber ( ).
4. Trace and Troubleshoot: Use the integrated VFL to locate fiber ends, macrobends, or breaks.
5. Record and Report: Export results to FastReporter or other compatible software for documentation and certification purposes.

Applications

• Field Installation and Maintenance: Quick verification of fiber links, PON activation, and troubleshooting.
• Laboratory and Manufacturing: R&D testing, component characterization, and quality control.
• Certification: Tier-1 certification kits combine power meters with light sources for compliance testing of multi-fiber networks ( ).

EXFO optical power meters are versatile tools that combine speed, accuracy, and ease of use, making them suitable for both field technicians and lab engineers working with modern fiber optic networks.