FODL Fault Locators

520 to 660 nm; Optical Power 0.5 to 30 mW; CW to 2 kHz; Connector Type Super/Angled NTT-FC/PC, SC, ST, Universal

OZ Optics’ FODL series of visible fiber optic fault locators launches 635 nm visible laser diode light into the fiber. When light encounters a break or sharp bend, it scatters, and the scattered light can be observed emerging from the cable. Fault locators can locate breaks in short patchcords, which an OTDR cannot detect due to its operating dead zone. A fault locator is also much less expensive than an OTDR. However, they are not recommended for use with dark-colored or armored cables.

Another use for fault locators is to check connector quality – inside the connector ferrule, poor gluing or dirt may create a micro bend in the fiber producing excess insertion or return losses and maybe resulting in premature failure of the connector. Launching visible light through the fiber, so that it emerges from the connector in question, the distortion appears as a series of rings superimposed on a normal output.

Fault locators are available in bench-top, pocket and pen format. Pocket size fault locators can be operated in either CW or pulse modulation mode. Pen size fault locators are CW only. High power versions, available as bench-top units, are also CW only.

Key Features:

• Pen, Pocket and Bench-top Versions Available
• High Visibility (up to 6 km with a 1 mW, 635 nm Source)
• Higher Output up to 30 mW, Non-contact Style Power Versions Available
• Continuous Light or Pulse Modulation
• Power Supply Alkaline Batteries or AC/DC Adapter
• Carrying Pouch with Belt Clip for Pocket-size Version
• 1.25 mm and 2.5 mm ID Universal Connector Receptacles Available

Applications: Single Mode and Multi Mode Fiber Testing; Fiber Identifier Applications; Locating Breaks and Bends in Fibers and Connectors; Identifying Fibers and Tracing Optical Signals by Using Modulated Signals; Optimizing Splices