Five-point method for testing fiber optic cable splices
The five-point method ensures accurate measurement of splice and connector loss in fiber optic cables using a light source, power meter, reference cables, adapters, and cleaning supplies.
Overview
The five-point method is a standardized approach to test fiber optic cable splices and overall cable plant performance. It focuses on measuring insertion loss and verifying that splices meet acceptable loss specifications. This method is widely used for both singlemode and multimode fibers and ensures that each splice and connector does not degrade signal quality beyond acceptable limits .
Required Equipment
- Test Source – A light source appropriate for the fiber type (Multimode: 850/1300 nm LED; Singlemode: 1310/1550 nm laser)
- Optical Power Meter – Calibrated at the same wavelengths as the source output
- Launch and Receive Reference Cables – Same fiber type and size as the cable plant, tested to ensure good condition
- Mating Adapters – Compatible with the connectors on the cable plant and reference cables
- Cleaning Supplies – Lint-free wipes and pure alcohol to clean connectors and adapters before testing
Step-by-Step Procedure
- Warm-Up Equipment – Turn on the light source and power meter, allowing them to stabilize.
- Connect Launch Cable – Attach the launch reference cable to the light source; this remains connected throughout the test.
- Clean Connectors and Adapters – Ensure all fiber end faces and mating adapters are free of dust or debris to prevent measurement errors.
- Set Reference Power – Establish a “0 dB” reference by measuring the power through the reference cables. This ensures all subsequent loss measurements are accurate.
- Measure Loss Across Cable Plant – Connect the launch and receive reference cables to the cable plant under test. Record the optical power at the meter to determine the total insertion loss, including all splices and connectors. If connectors differ, hybrid adapters may be used to adapt the test equipment to the cable plant .
Additional Considerations
- OTDR Verification – For long outside plant cables with multiple splices, an OTDR can be used to verify individual splice quality and locate faults .
- Documentation – Record all measurements for each splice and connector to ensure compliance with industry standards and for future troubleshooting.
- Troubleshooting – If loss exceeds acceptable limits, inspect and clean splices, connectors, and adapters, or re-splice as necessary .
This method provides a reliable, repeatable way to certify fiber optic splices and ensure the installed cable plant meets performance specifications.
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