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Characterization and Calibration of an Optical Time Domain Reflectometer Calibrator

Published

Author(s)

Donald R. Larson, Nicholas Paulter, Kenneth C. Blaney

Abstract

We report the results of an investigation into the signal characteristics and behavior of an instrument used to calibrate Optical Time Domain Reflectometers. This instrument implements the Telecommunications Industry Association standard TIA/EIA-455-226 External Source Method. Results of calibrations performed at various US Air Force Precision Measurement Equipment Laboratories have included some anomalous pulse delays and our efforts were focused on identifying the cause and developing corrective procedures for this anomalous behavior. We also describe the measurement method and associated uncertainty analysis used to calibrate optical fiber delay lines employed in the calibration of the OTDR calibrator.
Proceedings Title
2006 NCSLI Workshop & Symposium
Conference Dates
August 6-10, 2006
Conference Location
Nashville, TN, USA

Keywords

optical fiber, time domain reflectometer, OTDR, propagation delay, calibration

Citation

Larson, D. , Paulter, N. and Blaney, K. (2006), Characterization and Calibration of an Optical Time Domain Reflectometer Calibrator, 2006 NCSLI Workshop & Symposium, Nashville, TN, USA, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=32309 (Accessed March 28, 2024)
Created August 22, 2006, Updated October 12, 2021