Fluke DTX-MFM2 User manual

PN 2142235
April 2004, Rev. 4 4/10
©2004-2010 Fluke Corporation. All rights reserved. Printed in USA.
All product names are trademarks of their respective companies.
DTX-MFM2/GFM2/SFM2
Fiber Modules
Users Manual

LIMITED WARRANTY AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
Each Fluke Networks product is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service. The
warranty period for the mainframe is one year and begins on the date of purchase. Parts, accessories, product repairs and services are
warranted for 90 days, unless otherwise stated. Ni-Cad, Ni-MH and Li-Ion batteries, cables or other peripherals are all considered parts
or accessories. The warranty extends only to the original buyer or end user customer of a Fluke Networks authorized reseller, and does
not apply to any product which, in Fluke Networks’ opinion, has been misused, abused, altered, neglected, contaminated, or damaged
by accident or abnormal conditions of operation or handling. Fluke Networks warrants that software will operate substantially in
accordance with its functional specifications for 90 days and that it has been properly recorded on non-defective media. Fluke Networks
does not warrant that software will be error free or operate without interruption.
Fluke Networks authorized resellers shall extend this warranty on new and unused products to end-user customers only but have no
authority to extend a greater or different warranty on behalf of Fluke Networks. Warranty support is available only if product is
purchased through a Fluke Networks authorized sales outlet or Buyer has paid the applicable international price. Fluke Networks
reserves the right to invoice Buyer for importation costs of repair/replacement parts when product purchased in one country is
submitted for repair in another country.
Fluke Networks warranty obligation is limited, at Fluke Networks option, to refund of the purchase price, free of charge repair, or
replacement of a defective product which is returned to a Fluke Networks authorized service center within the warranty period.
To obtain warranty service, contact your nearest Fluke Networks authorized service center to obtain return authorization information,
then send the product to that service center, with a description of the difficulty, postage and insurance prepaid (FOB destination). Fluke
Networks assumes no risk for damage in transit. Following warranty repair, the product will be returned to Buyer, transportation
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or abnormal condition of operation or handling, or normal wear and tear of mechanical components, Fluke Networks will provide an
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THIS WARRANTY IS BUYER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED,
INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OR MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. FLUKE
NETWORKS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSSES, INCLUDING
LOSS OF DATA, ARISING FROM ANY CAUSE OR THEORY.
Since some countries or states do not allow limitation of the term of an implied warranty, or exclusion or limitation of incidental or
consequential damages, the limitations and exclusions of this warranty may not apply to every buyer. If any provision of this Warranty
is held invalid or unenforceable by a court or other decision-maker of competent jurisdiction, such holding will not affect the validity or
enforceability of any other provision.
4/04
Fluke Networks
PO Box 777
Everett, WA 98206-0777
USA

i
Contents
Title Page
Overview of Features ................................................................................................... 1
Registration .................................................................................................................. 1
Contacting Fluke Networks ......................................................................................... 2
Accessing the Technical Reference Handbook ........................................................... 2
Additional Resources for Cable Testing Information ................................................. 2
Unpacking ..................................................................................................................... 3
DTX-MFM2 Multimode Fiber Modules .................................................................. 3
DTX-GFM2 Multimode Fiber Modules ................................................................... 3
DTX-SFM2 Singlemode Fiber Modules ................................................................... 3
Safety Information ....................................................................................................... 4
Getting Acquainted ..................................................................................................... 6
Installing and Removing Fiber Modules ................................................................ 6
Physical Features ..................................................................................................... 7
Installing the Connector Adapter ............................................................................... 8
Essentials for Reliable Fiber Test Results ..................................................................... 10
Cleaning Connectors and Adapters ....................................................................... 10
About Setting the Reference .................................................................................. 11

DTX-MFM2/GFM2/SFM2 Fiber Modules
Users Manual
ii
Selecting Test Reference Cords ............................................................................... 12
Testing Your Test Reference Cords ........................................................................ 12
Using Mandrels for Testing Multimode Fiber ........................................................ 12
Fiber Test Settings ........................................................................................................ 15
About 1 Jumper Connections ...................................................................................... 20
Certifying Fiber Cabling ............................................................................................... 20
Autotest in Smart Remote Mode ........................................................................... 20
Autotest in Loopback Mode ................................................................................... 28
Autotest in Far End Source Mode .......................................................................... 36
Using the Visual Fault Locator ..................................................................................... 44
Monitoring Optical Power ........................................................................................... 47
Options and Accessories .............................................................................................. 50
Maintenance ................................................................................................................. 50
Replacing Fiber Test Reference Cords ......................................................................... 50
Using the Smart Remote with an OptiFiber Certifying OTDR ................................... 50
Certification, Compliance, and Regulatory Information ........................................... 51
Appendix A: How to Test Your Test Reference Cords ................................................ 53
Appendix B: Test Method Names ................................................................................ 61
Appendix C: Modified 1 Jumper Method ................................................................... 63
Index

iii
List of Figures
Figure Title Page
1. Installing and Removing Fiber Modules ............................................................................. 6
2. Fiber Module Features .........................................................................................................7
3. SC, ST, LC, and FC Connector Adapters............................................................................... 8
4. Installing the Connector Adapter........................................................................................ 9
5. Wrapping a Test Reference Cord Around a Mandrel ........................................................ 14
6. Example of How to Determine the Number of Adapters Setting..................................... 17
7. Equipment for Testing in Smart Remote Mode (1 Jumper Method) ................................ 21
8. Setting the Reference in Smart Remote Mode (1 Jumper Method) ................................. 23
9. Testing the Test Reference Cords in Smart Remote Mode ................................................ 25
10. Testing a Fiber Link in Smart Remote Mode (1 Jumper Method) ..................................... 27
11. Equipment for Testing in Loopback Mode (1 Jumper Method)........................................ 29
12. Setting the Reference in Loopback Mode (1 Jumper Method)......................................... 31
13. Testing the Test Reference Cords in Loopback Mode........................................................ 33
14. Testing a Fiber in Loopback Mode (1 Jumper Method)..................................................... 35
15. Equipment for Testing in Far End Source Mode (1 Jumper Method) ............................... 36
16. Setting the Reference in Far End Source Mode (1 Jumper Method) ................................ 39
17. Testing the Test Reference Cords in Far End Source Mode ............................................... 41

DTX-MFM2/GFM2/SFM2 Fiber Modules
Users Manual
iv
18. Testing a Fiber Link in Far End Source Mode (1 Jumper Method) .................................... 43
19. Equipment for Using the Visual Fault Locator.................................................................... 44
20. Using the Visual Fault Locator............................................................................................. 46
21. Equipment for Monitoring Optical Power.......................................................................... 47
22. Connections for Monitoring Optical Power........................................................................ 49
A-1. Equipment for Testing the Test Reference Cords............................................................... 54
A-2. Examples of Fiber Endfaces ................................................................................................. 56
A-3. Reference Connections ........................................................................................................ 57
A-4. Connections for Testing a Test Reference Cord.................................................................. 59
C-1. Modified 1 Jumper Method: Smart Remote Mode Reference Connections..................... 64
C-2. Modified 1 Jumper Method: Smart Remote Mode Test Connections............................... 65

1
DTX-MFM2/GFM2/SFM2 Fiber Modules
Overview of Features
The DTX-MFM2, DTX-GFM2, and DTX-SFM2 fiber modules
are used with a DTX Series CableAnalyzer to test and
certify fiber optic cabling installations. The fiber modules
offer the following functions and features:
• Measures optical power loss and length on dual-fiber
cabling. The DTX-MFM2 tests multimode cabling at
850 nm and 1300 nm. The DTX-SFM2 tests singlemode
cabling at 1310 nm and 1550 nm. The DTX-GFM2
features a VCSEL for testing multimode cabling at
850 nm and 1310 nm when a VCSEL source is required.
• Each module transmits both wavelengths (850 nm and
1300 nm, 850 nm and 1310 nm, or 1310 nm and
1550 nm).
• Interchangeable connector adapters allow reference
and test connections that meet ISO and TIA standards
for most SFF (small form factor) fiber connectors.
• Provides pass/fail results based on industry-standard
limits.
• Visual fault locator helps you locate breaks, bad
splices, bends, and check fiber continuity and polarity.
• FindFiber™function helps you identify and verify fiber
connections.
Note
The fiber modules are not compatible with the DTX-ELT.
Registration
Registering your product with Fluke Networks gives you
access to valuable information on product updates,
troubleshooting tips, and other support services. To
register, fill out the online registration form on the Fluke
Networks website at www.flukenetworks.com/registration.

DTX-MFM2/GFM2/SFM2 Fiber Modules
Users Manual
2
Contacting Fluke Networks
Note
If you contact Fluke Networks about your tester,
have the tester's software and hardware version
numbers available if possible.
www.flukenetworks.com
[email protected]
[phone]
• Australia: 61 (2) 8850-3333 or 61 (3) 9329 0244
• Beijing: 86 (10) 6512-3435
• Brazil: 11 3759 7600
• Canada: 1-800-363-5853
• Europe: [phone]
• Hong Kong: 852 2721-3228
• Japan: 03-6714-3117
• Korea: 82 2 539-6311
• Singapore: 65-6799-5566
• Taiwan: (886) 2-227-83199
• USA: 1-800-283-5853
Visit our website for a complete list of phone numbers.
Accessing the Technical Reference
Handbook
The DTX Series CableAnalyzer Technical Reference
Handbook provides additional information on the tester
and the fiber modules. The handbook is available on the
DTX CableAnalyzer Product CD included with your
modules and on the DTX CableAnalyzer product page on
the Fluke Networks website.
Additional Resources for Cable Testing
Information
The Fluke Networks Knowledge Base provides answers to
common questions about Fluke Networks products, along
with articles on cable testing techniques and technology.
To access the Knowledge Base, log on to
www.flukenetworks.com, then click Support >
Knowledge Base at the top of the page.

Unpacking
3
Unpacking
The fiber modules come with the accessories listed below.
If something is damaged or missing, contact the place of
purchase immediately.
DTX-MFM2 Multimode Fiber Modules
• Two DTX-MFM2 Fiber Modules for testing at 850 nm
and 1300 nm
• Two 62.5/125 µm multimode test reference cords,
2 m, SC/SC
• Two gray mandrels for 62.5 /125 µm fiber with 3 mm
jackets
• Two red mandrels for 50 /125 µm fiber with 3 mm
jackets
• DTX-MFM2/GFM2/SFM2 Fiber Modules Users Manual
DTX-GFM2 Multimode Fiber Modules
• Two DTX-GFM2 Fiber Modules for testing at 850 nm
and 1310 nm
• Two 50/125 µm multimode test reference cords, 2 m,
SC/SC
• DTX-MFM2/GFM2/SFM2 Fiber Modules Users Manual
DTX-SFM2 Singlemode Fiber Modules
• Two DTX-SFM2 Fiber Modules for testing at
1310 nm and 1550 nm.
• Two 9/125 µm singlemode test reference cords, 2 m,
SC/SC
• DTX-MFM2/GFM2/SFM2 Fiber Modules Users Manual
Note
The test reference cords and connector adapter
types provided are suitable for testing SC-
terminated links. Other test reference cords and
adapter types are required for other connector
types or 50 /125 µm fiber. Many are available as
accessories from Fluke Networks.

DTX-MFM2/GFM2/SFM2 Fiber Modules
Users Manual
4
Safety Information
WWarningX
To avoid possible fire, electric shock, or personal
injury read the safety information given in the
DTX Series CableAnalyzer Users Manual.
WWarning: Class 1 and Class 2 Laser
Products*
To avoid possible eye damage caused by
hazardous radiation:
• Never look directly into optical connectors. Some
sources produce invisible radiation that can
permanently damage your eyes.
• Keep the fiber module’s OUTPUT port covered
with a dust cap or keep a test reference cord
attached. The OUTPUT port may be active even
when a test is not in progress. Covering the port
reduces the risk of accidental exposure to
hazardous radiation.
• Never start a test or activate the OUTPUT port or
VFL port without first connecting a fiber to the
port you will use.
• Never look directly into the visual fault locator
output. Momentary exposure to the locator’s
output will not damage your eyes; however,
direct, long-term exposure is potentially
hazardous.
• Do not use magnification to view the optical
outputs without proper filtering.
• Use of controls, adjustments, or procedures not
stated herein might result in hazardous radiation
exposure.
WCaution
To avoid damaging the tester or cables under
test, to avoid data loss, and to ensure maximum
accuracy of test results:
• Leave the module bay covers in place when the
fiber modules are not installed.
• Turn off the tester before attaching or removing
modules.

Safety Information
5
• When using the fiber modules, use proper
cleaning procedures to clean all fiber connectors
before every use. Neglecting this step or using
improper procedures can cause unreliable test
results and may permanently damage the
connectors. See page 10.
• Use only high-quality test reference cords that
comply with ISO/IEC 14763-3. Test the cords at
regular intervals. See Appendix A.
• Cover all connectors with dust caps when not in
use.
• Store the connector adapters for the fiber module
in the canisters provided.
• Do not touch the photodiode lens (see Figure 4).
• Do not overtighten the adapter or use tools to
tighten the adapter.
• Use a Fluke Networks FiberInspector Video
Microscope to periodically inspect the fiber
module’s OUTPUT connector for scratches and
other damage.

DTX-MFM2/GFM2/SFM2 Fiber Modules
Users Manual
6
Getting Acquainted
The following sections introduce the fiber modules’
features.
Installing and Removing Fiber Modules
Figure 1 shows how to install and remove the fiber
modules.
WCaution
Leave the module bay covers in place when the
fiber modules are not installed.
amd34f.eps
Figure 1. Installing and Removing Fiber Modules

Getting Acquainted
7
Physical Features
Figure 2. Fiber Module Features
amd64f.eps
WWarning*
Never look directly into
optical output connectors (B
and D). Some sources produce
invisible radiation that can
permanently damage your
eyes.
A Button for activating the visual fault locator (B) and output port (D). See
“Using the Visual Fault Locator” on page 44 and “Autotest in Far End
Source Mode” on page 36.
B Universal fiber connector (with dust cap) for the visual fault locator output.
The connector accepts 2.5 mm ferrules. The LED below the connector
indicates the locator’s mode (continuous or blinking).
C Input connector with dust cap. Receives optical signals for loss, length, and
power measurements. You can change the connector adapter to match the
connectors on the fiber under test. See Figure 4.
D SC output connector with dust cap. Transmits optical signals for loss and
length measurements.
E The LED below the connector is red when the output is transmitting the
module’s shorter wavelength, and green for the longer wavelength.
F Laser safety label (shown at right).
amd128i.eps
CAUTION

DTX-MFM2/GFM2/SFM2 Fiber Modules
Users Manual
8
amd37f.eps
Figure 3. SC, ST, LC, and FC Connector Adapters
Installing the Connector Adapter
You can change the fiber module's input connector
adapter to connect to SC, ST, LC, and FC fiber connectors.
Additional adapter styles may be available. Check the
Fluke Networks web site for updates.
WCaution
• Cover all connectors with dust caps when not in
use.
• Store the connector adapters for the fiber module
in the canisters provided.
• Do not touch the photodiode lens (see Figure 4).
• Do not overtighten the adapter or use tools to
tighten the adapter.
To install a connector adapter, refer to Figure 4 and do the
following:
1 Locate the slot in the fiber module connector and the
key on the adapter ring.
2 Holding the adapter so it does not turn in the nut,
align the adapter's key with the module connector's
slot and slide the adapter onto the connector.
3 Screw the nut onto the module connector.

Installing the Connector Adapter
9
amd99f.eps
Figure 4. Installing the Connector Adapter

DTX-MFM2/GFM2/SFM2 Fiber Modules
Users Manual
10
Essentials for Reliable Fiber Test
Results
To get reliable fiber test results, you must follow proper
cleaning and referencing procedures and, in some cases,
use mandrels during testing.
Cleaning Connectors and Adapters
Always clean and inspect fiber connectors before making
connections. Use fiber optic solvent and optical-grade
wipes or swabs to clean connectors as follows:
Bulkhead Connectors and the Fiber Module's Output
Connector
Note
Use a 2.5 mm foam swab for cleaning the fiber
module's output connector.
1 Touch the tip of a fiber optic solvent pen or swab
soaked in solvent to a lint-free dry wipe or fiber
cleaning card.
2 Touch a new, dry swab to the solvent spot on the wipe
or card.
3 Push the swab into the connector; twist it around 3 to
5 times against the endface, then remove and dispose
of the swab.
4 Dry the connector with a dry swab by twisting it
around in the connector 3 to 5 times.
5 Inspect connectors with a fiber microscope, such as the
Fluke Networks FiberInspector Video Microscope
before making connections.
Fiber Module's Input Connector
1 Remove the connector adapter to expose the
photodiode lens (see Figure 4).
2 Use the method described in steps 1 and 2 above to
dampen a swab with solvent.
3 Twist the damp swab around against the lens 3 to 5
times; then twist a dry swab around against the lens 3
to 5 times.
Connector Adapters and Fiber Adapters
Periodically clean connector adapters and fiber adapters
with a swab and fiber optic solvent. Dry with a dry swab
before use.

Essentials for Reliable Fiber Test Results
11
Connector Ends
1 Touch the tip of a fiber optic solvent pen or swab
soaked in solvent to a lint-free dry wipe or fiber
cleaning card.
2 Wipe the connector end-face across the solvent spot,
then back and forth once across the dry area of the
wipe or card.
Note
Some connector styles, such as VF-45, may require
a different cleaning method.
3 Inspect connectors with a fiber microscope, such as the
Fluke Networks FiberInspector Video Microscope
before making connections.
Always cover unused connectors with protective caps. Clean
caps periodically with a swab or wipe and fiber optic
solvent.
About Setting the Reference
The reference serves as the baseline power level for loss
measurements. Regular referencing helps account for
minor variations in source power and connection integrity.
Also, since the reference is the baseline for measurements,
the losses of the test reference cords and adapters used
during referencing are excluded from test results.
Note
Turn on the tester and smart remote and let them
sit for 5 minutes before setting the reference.
Allow additional time if the modules have been
stored above or below ambient temperature.
You should set the reference at these times:
• At the beginning of each day using the remote end
setup (Figures 10 through 18) you will use that day.
• Anytime you reconnect a test reference cord to the
module’s output or other source.
• Anytime the tester warns you that the reference is out
of date.
• Anytime you see a negative loss measurement. (See
the Technical Reference Handbook for more
information.)
You must set the reference at these times:
• Anytime you change the fiber module in the tester or
smart remote.
• Anytime you start using a different smart remote.
• Anytime you change the Test Method in Setup.

DTX-MFM2/GFM2/SFM2 Fiber Modules
Users Manual
12
WCaution
Do not disconnect the test reference cords from
the testers' output ports after setting the
reference. Doing so may alter the amount of
optical power launched into the fiber and
invalidate the reference.
Reference values should not change by more than a few
tenths of a dB from day to day. Larger changes may
indicate a problem with the test reference cords or
connections.
See the sections on Smart Remote, Loopback, and Far End
Source modes for details on setting the reference for each
mode.
Selecting Test Reference Cords
The DTX Fiber Modules come with high-quality test
reference cords.
To ensure that your measurements are accurate and
repeatable, use test reference cords provided by Fluke
Networks or cords of the same quality. See "Replacing
Fiber Test Reference Cords" on page 50.
Testing Your Test Reference Cords
You must test your test reference cords at regular intervals.
Use the procedure given in Appendix A to test the cords
initially. After that, use the procedure given with the
procedures for certifying cabling to monitor the condition
of the cords.
Using Mandrels for Testing Multimode Fiber
You should use mandrels when testing multimode fiber
with the DTX-MFM2 fiber modules. Mandrels can improve
measurement repeatability and consistency. They also
allow the use of LED light sources to certify 50 µm and
62.5 µm fiber links for current and planned high bit-rate
applications, such as Gigabit Ethernet and 10 Gigabit
Ethernet.
WCaution
Do not use mandrels when testing with the
DTX-GFM2 fiber modules.

Essentials for Reliable Fiber Test Results
13
The gray mandrels included with the DTX-MFM2 are
compliant with ANSI/TIA-568-C for 62.5 µm fiber with a
3 mm jacket. Mandrels for 50 µm fiber are available from
Fluke Networks. Refer to the appropriate standard for
mandrel requirements if you follow other standards. Table
1 shows a partial list of mandrel requirements for TIA
standards.
Figure 5 shows how to wrap the fiber around a mandrel.
Place mandrels on the tester’s output fibers, as shown in
Figures 8 through 15.
In the reference and test connection diagrams shown on
the tester, mandrels are indicated by a loop in the fiber.
Table 1. ANSI/TIA-568-C Mandrel Requirements
Fiber
core size Standard
Wraps Around
Mandrel
Mandrel Diameter for
250 µm Buffered Fiber
Mandrel Diameter for 3 mm
(0.12 in) Jacketed Cable
50 µm ANSI/TIA-568-C.0 6.4.2.1 5 25 mm (1.0 in) 22 mm (0.9 in)
62.5 µm ANSI/TIA-568-C.0 6.4.2.1 5 20 mm (0.8 in) 17 mm (0.7 in)

DTX-MFM2/GFM2/SFM2 Fiber Modules
Users Manual
14
amd67f.eps
Figure 5. Wrapping a Test Reference Cord Around a Mandrel
Wrap 5 times
in grooves
Place top wrap
in groove under
retainer
Right:
no bends
at retainer Wrong:
bends at
retainer