As an option, a precision-coupled Visual Fault Locator
(VFL) can be installed into Fiber OWL 4 optical power meters. By integrating a VFL into the power meter, troubleshooting for near-end faults can be
done on the spot during testing.
OWL precision-coupled VFLs offer two distinct
technological advantages over traditional laser pen-style visual fault
locators.
First, a multi-million dollar micro-alignment machine is used to place a
tiny ball lens between the laser diode and the output port, allowing for
optimum precision-coupling of optical power into both multimode and singlemode
fibers.
Second, red
lasers are susceptible to burnout, which is typically caused by power surging from
the battery when the unit is powered on, especially from new batteries. Over time, these battery
surges can weaken the laser, significantly limiting the laser's
effectiveness. OWL optical power meters contain special circuitry
that protects the red laser diode from battery power surges,
ensuring a stable and consistent source of red light as well as maximizing the
life-span of the laser.
NOTE:
the optional light source port on the Fiber OWL 4 can be either a VFL or a
length tester, but not both. If length measurement and VFL are both
required, OWL has other VFL options available.
