What should I do to maintain my fiber?

There are many ways of being proactive when it comes to fiber plant. However, because of the durability and low maintenance requirements fiber stewards are frequently rolling the dice and taking a wait and see attitude.

Here are a few ways you can get in front of problems.

Third Party Testing Services:
My wife's a teacher, and she doesn't let her kids grade their own tests. However, we IT professionals think little about separating the conflict of interest in having the same individual install and test installations or performance. I have been in way to many closets to think this is a waste of effort. The craftsmanship of some fiber installations leaves much to be desired.

Fiber Optic Testing and Documentation (OTDR, PM & LS)

1. Require a bi-directional OTDR trace
2. Require a PM & LS test to verify core power levels
3. Require an image of the connector endface prior to testing (ensures the contractor cleans the endface prior to testing)
4. If testing Multimode fiber, ensure your contractor is using a mandrel
5. When testing with an OTDR, ensure a launch box is being used (1km - SM, 150m - MM)

Network configuration and maintenance

1. Consult a certified RCDD before making any adds moves and changes, especially when upgrading speed on Multimode fiber
2. Consider a performance contract with a company to ensure they are recommending the appropriate equipment (If performance is low or equipment is faulty, the integrator will replace the hardware)
3. Schedule annual maintenance with a third party to ensure schedules are kept.

Description:
Services designed to support the IT professional in maintenance, documentation, installation and testing.

OTDR Trace Analysis & Off-site Storage
OTDR Trace Analysis
Interpretation Services
File Storage (Off-site Backup)
Comparison Analysis (Compare benchmark to current trace)
Report Generation
Description:
OTDR analysis and storage services for IT professionals interested in a second opinion or off-site storage of network trace files. If traced are completed and stored for future reference, emergency restoration, annual maintenance and management, prevention of degradation are all made easier.


Consulting and Project Management Services:
The following is a list of consulting services offered through FiberOptic.com:
Design Consulting Services
Project Management Services
Description:


Consulting and project management services for IT professionals interested in leveraging the experience of fiber optic professionals.
CONTACT: Chris LaBonge - 215.499.8959 or clabonge@adtell.com
NOTE: Services provided by Adtell Integration - http://www.adtellintegration.com/

Fiber Optic Installation - Services

The time has arrived.... Infrastructure solutions now require fiber optics to propagate the vast amount of data which continues to increase in an almost exponential fashion. Therefore, the questions becomes, who can you trust to assist with this physical infrastructure deployment? Well, if you're the handy sort, it will require an $8,000 fusion splicer and equally prices OTDR to ensure you've performed a professional installation. In comparison, the option exists to hire a contractor who understands your requirement and will assist with the engineering, installation, maintenance and Emergency Restoration.

These contractors, if focused on communications infrastructure, will truly offer the most cost effective, longest lasting, and mission critical solution to keep your organization focused and moving forward.

Adtell Integration - http://www.adtellintegration.com now offers consulting, design, installation, maintenance, and Emergency Restoration services around the world.

A Rugged Fusion Splicer

Introducing the FSM-60 and FSM-18 series – fusion splicing is redefined!
AFL Telecommunications sets a higher standard with Fujikura’s new series of core alignment and fixed V-groove fusion splicers. Offering unmatched versatility and reliability, the FSM-60 and FSM-18 series withstand a 30” drop test and continue splicing! With ruggedized edges around the corners, the new splicers are ideal for field splicing where accidents tend to happen.
With the rugged construction, the new splicer series provide shock, dust and moisture resistance, further enhancing productivity in the field. New software provides the ability to download splice data to a PC for splice data reporting, download splicer operating software via the internet to maintain peak performance, and download video images from the splicer to enhance technical support. In addition, new features such as the user-selectable fiber clamping method (sheath clamp or fiber holder system), simultaneous battery charge and splicer operation, automatic arc calibration and fiber identification, and auto-start tube heater, makes this the productivity tool to count on!


FSM-18S Fusion Splicer The FSM-18S Fusion Splicer is a low cost, fixed V-groove, single fiber fusion splicer with the same robust features offered in other high end models. The new rugged construction adds improved reliability by resisting shock, dust, and rain, and withstands a 30” drop test.
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FSM-60R12 Fusion Splicer The FSM-60R12 Fusion Splicer offers unmatched versatility and reliability. The new ribbon splicer withstands a drop test of up to 30” and continues to splice. And enhanced, robust features enable the FSM-60R12 to resist shock, dust, and rain so that unfortunate environmental conditions do not negatively impact productivity.
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FSM-60S Fusion Splicer The FSM-60S Fusion Splicer sets the standard for core alignment fusion splicing by incorporating a user-friendly interface with enhanced features to provide the most rugged and reliable fusion splicer in the market today. The new rugged construction adds improved reliability by resisting shock, dust, and rain, and can withstand a 30” drop test.
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JDSU OTDR Offering

Highly integrated compact OTDR for FTTx and Access application
The T-BERD 6000L is a highly integrated, non-modular, compact OTDR ideally suited for the construction, fault location and troubleshooting/maintenance of access and FTTx fiber networks.
Highlights:
Most compact and highly integrated
Largest screen size in its class
Simple one-button operation for full OTDR functionality
Connection check options: Visual Fault Locator (VFL), power meter, laser source and video inspection probe
Dual-wavelength testing: 1310/1550 nm (singlemode)
Simple for the novice, fully featured for the expert

Applications:
Fast and precise fault location
FTTx/Access installation and troubleshooting
Distance, loss and ORL measurements
Connector and splice characterization

Key Features:
Large 8.4 inch transreflective TFT color display improves viewing under any conditions
Intuitive graphical user interface
Fast data transfer via USB and Ethernet port
Exceeds Telcordia GR-196-CORE specifications (including, ruggedness, drop testing, and extended battery life)