The SmartClass Fiber ORL-85 combine optical power meter (OPM), light source (OLS), continuous wave return loss meter (OCWR), and connector inspection in one compact instrument.
Optical systems with high-speed lasers, analog transmission (CATV), or Raman amplifiers require high return loss for maximum performance. Furthermore, optical return loss measurements can be used to prove that an installation was completed carefully and accurately; for example, they can show that the optical connectors were inspected and are clean. The ultra-sensitive power meter combined with stabilized light sources enable up to a 70 dB measurement range.
The angled single-mode test port (APC) guarantees highly accurate return loss measurements without requiring external termination for up to 50 dB return loss measurements.
What is Return Loss?
Return loss is the loss of power in the signal returned/reflected by a discontinuity in a transmission line. This discontinuity can be a mismatch with the terminating load or with a device inserted in the line, and is a measure of how well devices or lines are matched. If the impedance match is good, all the energy will be transmitted through and nothing should be reflected.