OTDR for the rapid testing of PON access networks and FTTA
AQ1210 delivers the functionality of a high-end tester in a handy cost-effective package
The new Yokogawa AQ1210 OTDR (Optical-Time Domain Reflectometer) only resembles the existing AQ1200 in appearance – internally it has been completely re-engineered to bring the features and user-friendly operation of the AQ7280 flagship OTDR to the installers and testers of Passive Optical Networks (PON) and Fibre To The Antenna (FTTA).
The AQ1210 uses an optimised operating system, which, in conjunction with the 5.7-inch capacitive multi-touch screen display and built-in smart mapper, enables the operator to rapidly characterise fibres in ranges from 200 metres to 256 km and generate easy-to-read pdf reports with icons clearly highlighting events.
PON is typically used throughout the world to provide optical fibre-based services to domestic and commercial customers. With 6 models offering 2 or 3 wavelengths, and the ability to test live fibre networks with high-port count splitters (up to 1:128), every user can find an AQ1210 model with the combination of wavelengths required to meet the testing needs of their local country or region.
“As more and more optical networks are installed to satisfy the demand for reliable and fast internet services, there is an increasing demand for choice in the selection of cost-effective and multi-capable test equipment”, says Terry Marrinan, Vice President Europe, ASEAN & Oceania, for Yokogawa’s Test&Measurement Business Unit: “With the introduction of the AQ1210 we are fulfilling our commitment to provide, since our very first model launched in 1981, a complete range of OTDRs able to measure fibres from the Local Area Networks to the ultra long-haul backbone lines.”
Measuring 210 x 148 x 69 mm and weighing just 1 kg, the AQ1210 can be operated using the touch screen or adjacent hardware keys. It is therefore compact and lightweight enough to be easily handled while testing the so called “last mile” of fibre to the consumers’ premises and also rugged enough to be used in more demanding and hostile environments where low temperatures, for example, affect touch screen operation.
The AQ1210 can perform different measurement functions simultaneously, saving time during tests. These include OTDR, Optical Power Meter (OPM), Visible Fault Locator (VFL), and automatic PASS/FAIL analysis of the surface of the optical fibre using a fibre inspection probe.
The internal battery, which provides in excess of 10 hours of operation – more than enough for a working day – is conveniently charged via a type-C USB port using a USB charger nowadays commonly used to recharge smartphones. The AQ1210 also includes two USB type-A ports and supports wireless connectivity, promoting easy sharing of test results.
For further information on the AQ1210 OTDR visit: https://tmi.yokogawa.com/eu/solutions/products/optical-measuring-instruments/optical-time-domain-reflectometer/aq1210-series-optical-time-domain-reflectometer/
About Yokogawa Test&Measurement
Yokogawa has been developing measurement solutions for over 100 years, consistently finding new ways to give R&D teams the tools they need to gain the best insights from their measurement strategies. The company has pioneered accurate power measurement throughout its history. In 2002 it became a leading supplier of optical Test&Measurement instruments following the acquisition of Ando Electric. Today, with more than 30 years of experience in optical testing, Yokogawa offers a broad range of optical instruments and is the market leader for Optical Spectrum Analysers in research and test laboratory environments.
Yokogawa instruments are renowned for maintaining high levels of precision and for continuing to deliver value for far longer than the typical shelf-life of such equipment. Yokogawa believes that precise and effective measurement lies at the heart of successful innovation – and has focused its own R&D on providing the tools that researchers and engineers need to address challenges great and small.
Yokogawa takes pride in its reputation for quality, both in the products it delivers – often adding new features in response to specific client requests – and the level of service and advice provided to clients, helping to devise measurement strategies for even the most challenging environments.
The guaranteed accuracy and precision of Yokogawa’s instruments results from the fact that Yokogawa has its own European standards laboratory at its European headquarters in The Netherlands. This facility is the only industrial (i.e. non-government or national) organisation to offer ISO 17025 accredited power calibration, at frequencies up to 100 kHz: a requirement for higher harmonic measurements specified in quality standards such as ISO 9000.
Meet the Precision Makers at tmi.yokogawa.com
About Yokogawa
Founded in 1915, Yokogawa engages in broad-ranging activities in the areas of measurement, control, and information. The industrial automation business provides vital products, services, and solutions to a diverse range of process industries including oil, chemicals, natural gas, power, iron and steel, and pulp and paper. With the life innovation business the company aims to radically improve productivity across the pharmaceutical and food industry value chains. The test & measurement, aviation, and other businesses continue to provide essential instruments and equipment with industry-leading precision and reliability. Yokogawa co-innovates with its customers through a global network of 113 companies spanning 61 countries, generating US$3.8 billion in sales in FY2017. For more information, please visit www.yokogawa.com/
