EXFO Releases Characterization Test Tool

EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. (NASDAQ:EXFO) (NASDAQ:TSX:) (NASDAQ:EXF) has released the FTB-7300E PON-Optimized OTDR for characterization of fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) networks and live-fiber troubleshooting.


Given that network operators are increasingly passing fiber inside multiple dwelling units (MDUs) amid their FTTH deployment initiatives, they are faced with new challenges like testing shorter fiber sections with multiple connections (connectors or splices) containing single or double-stage splitters.


EXFO's FTB-7300E FTTx OTDR, based on its high dynamic range and high resolution at low pulses, can generate a sharp trace within 15 second for end-to-end characterization of an optical link, even testing through a 1x64 splitter. As a result, it is the tool of choice for network operators in their concomitant efforts to provide end-users with quality of service (QoS) while reducing operating expenses.


The PON-optimized OTDR also features a power meter option and live port testing (1625 nm or 1650 nm, out of band) that enables field technicians to troubleshoot a live passive optical network (PON) without interfering with other signals at 1310, 1490 and 1550 nm.


The FTB-7300E FTTx OTDR, hosted inside the FTB-500 Platform, FTB-400 Universal Test System or FTB-200 Compact Platform, will be showcased at OFC/NFOEC 2009, booth # 1035, from March 24-26, 2009, in San Diego.


"Over the years, EXFO has worked with most of the leading network operators around the world, supporting their FTTH initiatives with best-of-class test solutions," said Etienne Gagnon, EXFO's Vice-President of Product Management and Marketing. "During the course of these working relationships, we have developed an industry-leading expertise that we're delighted to pass on in the form of our PON-optimized OTDR, which is ideally suited for the deployment and troubleshooting of new FTTH networks."

EXFO and its Applications

EXFO Provider of test and service assurance solutions for network service providers and equipment manufacturers in the global telecommunications industry.

FTB-500 Platform purpose-built for network operators with central office and field-testing challenges or network equipment manufacturers with R&D and system installation activities. Vendor is EXFO Optical Engineering

FTB-7300E PON-Optimized OTDR Application for characterization of fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) networks and live-fiber troubleshooting. Vendor is EXFO Optical Engineering. Features a power meter option and live port testing (1625 nm or 1650 nm, out of band) that enables field technicians to troubleshoot a live passive optical network (PON) without interfering with other signals at 1310, 1490 and 1550 nm.