OWL FO-4V User manual

OWL-INC.COM
Revision 1.6
Optical Wavelength Laboratories (OWL)
N9623 West US Hwy 12
Whitewater, WI 53190
Phone: [phone]
Internet: OWL-INC.COM
Optical Wavelength Laboratories
OPERATIONS GUIDE
FIBER OWL 4 OPTICAL POWER METER
Model Numbers:
FO-4B
FO-4V
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OWL

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INTRODUCTION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
Before You Begin 1
About This Manual 1
Applications 2
Description 2
Precautions 3
Product Label 3
General Features 4
General Features - LCD Display 5
Checking Your Fiber OWL 4 Firmware Version 5
Test Procedures
Active Equipment Power Measurement 6
Fiber Continuity 7
Patch Cable Testing 8
Check MM Reference Cables - Dual OWL MM Sources 9
Check MM Reference Cables - WaveSource MM Sources 10
Check SM Reference Cables - Laser OWL SM Sources 11
Check SM Reference Cables - WaveSource SM Sources 12
Quick Reference Guides
Fiber OWL 4/Dual OWL MM Test Kits 13
Fiber OWL 4/WaveSource MM Test Kits 19
Fiber OWL 4/Laser OWL SM Test Kits 24
Fiber OWL 4/WaveSource SM Test Kits 29
OWL Reporter
Installing OWL USB Driver 34
Installing OWL Reporter 36
Downloading Data to a PC 37
Viewing OWL Reporter Data 38
Report Printing 38
Downloading Data to a PC 39
Interpreting OWL Reporter Screens and Reports 40
Operation/Maintenance
Modes of Operation 46
Keyboard Entry Method 46
Monitor Mode 47
Auto Mode 47
MAIN MENU 48
FIBER LINK MENU 48
Link Wizard 48
Loading and Editing Stored Links 49
Advanced Configuration of Stored Links 50
Set an Optical Reference Using a Manually Entered Link Budget 51
Manually Set and Optical Reference Level 52
Setting an Optical Reference by Zeroing the Light Source 53
Viewing Stored Link Configurations 54
Deleting Stored Link Configurations and Data Points 55
Printing Stored Link Data to a Serial-Connected Device 55
STORED READINGS MENU 56

ii
INTRODUCTION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Viewing and Editing Stored Data 56
Printing Stored Data to a Serial Device 57
Downloading Data Manually 57
Clearing Stored Readings from Fiber OWL 4 Memory 58
METER SETUP MENU 59
Setting User Information 59
Setting User Name 59
Setting User Telephone Number 59
Setting User Preferences 60
Changing Wavelength Options 60
Entering Custom Wavelength 60
Setting Tone Detection Options 61
Setting LCD Contrast 61
Running the Serial Port Diagnostic 62
Creating User-Definable Cabling Standards 64
Optional VFL Port 65
Visual Fault Location 66
Visual Fiber Identification 67
Boot Removal 68
Battery Replacement 68
Universal Port 69
Use of SC Connectors with 2.5mm Universal Port 69
Cleaning the Detector Port 70
Cleaning the Light Source/VFL Port 71
Appendices
Specifications 72
Warranty Information 72
Contact Information 72
Optional Upgrade Information 72
Supported Cabling Standards 73
10-Gigabit Ethernet Standard 73
Link Budget Calculation Worksheet

INTRODUCTION
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
All personnel testing optical fibers should be adequately trained in the field of fiber optics before using any fiber optic test equipment.
If the user is not completely familiar with testing fiber optics, they should seek competent training. Such training can be acquired from
a variety of sources, such as local hands-on training classes.
Valuable information about fiber optic testing can also be gathered from reading printed literature carefully or by thoroughly reading
supplied operations manuals.
Fiber optic testers vary from other types of test equipment due to issues such as:
1) standards-based testing
2) proper fiber optic test procedures (FOTPs)
3) "zeroing" or referencing of power levels
4) determining the correct link budget to pass or fail by
Complete understanding of each of these issues is critical for performing proper fiber optic tests.
Throughout this manual you will find various symbols that assist with understanding the procedures outlined in this manual. Below is
a list of these symbols and a short description of their purpose:
Shows a helpful tip that will make a procedure go more smoothly
Tells the user some useful information about the successful completion of a procedure
Warns the operator of a potentially dangerous condition
ABOUT THIS MANUAL

INTRODUCTION
APPLICATIONS
Below is a list of test and measurement applications that can be performed using the Fiber OWL 4 optical power meter. The
procedure for each one of these applications is covered in detail in this manual.
Active Equipment Optical Power Measurements. Active equipment should be measured periodically for correct power levels.
The transmitters in this equipment have a known power value. The Fiber OWL 4 can be directly attached to this equipment via a patch
cord to check whether the transmitter is within the manufacturer’s specified power range.
Fiber Continuity Testing. Continuity can be measured with the Fiber OWL 4 by placing a calibrated light source on one end of the
fiber and the Fiber OWL4 on the other end. This is also a simple way to measure the attenuation of the fiber.
Patch Cord Testing. Fiber links that are producing incorrect results may have bad patch cords. The Fiber OWL4 can be used to test
the attenuation of a patch cord to see if it is usable, or should be replaced.
Attenuation (Optical Loss) Measurements. After a fiber cable has been installed and terminated, it should be tested to determine if
the fiber is installed according to standards and specifications. A comparison of the actual power measurement and the reference
value determines if the installation will pass or fail. Up to 1000 fiber measurements may be stored for later download into OWL
Reporter software.
Fiber Optic Link Certification. The Link Wizard in the Fiber OWL 4 uses attenuation parameters from popular cabling standards to
certify fiber links, and shows a link’s PASS/FAIL status right in the field. Stored data can be downloaded into our FREE OWL Reporter
software, where certification reports can be printed out with details or summaries of the fibers being certified.
Optical Fiber Cable Length Measurement. Certain models of the Fiber OWL 4 have the ability to perform a “round-robin” optical
fiber length measurement.
The Fiber OWL 4 is a high-accuracy, high-resolution, microprocessor-controlled optical power meter. Its wide 75dB dynamic range
and NIST-traceable wavelengths make it ideal for both singlemode and multimode fiber testing.
It is enclosed in an attractive hand-held case made from high impact plastic, has a backlit graphic LCD, as well as an 18-key keypad
for easy data entry. The 2.5mm universal detector port accepts ST, SC, and FC, as well as many other 2.5mm ferrule connectors. A
1.25mm universal adapter is also included for connection to LC or other SFF connectors.
Each Fiber OWL 4 includes a standard non-rechargeable 9-volt battery, which typically allows 100 hours of continuous operation. A
built-in auto-shutdown feature also conserves battery life. The USB port doubles as a battery charger port in case the user wishes to
use re-chargeable 9-volt batteries. Re-chargeable batteries are NOT included.
The Fiber OWL 4 includes a built-in link wizard that helps you easily calculate optical references (link budgets) used for fiber optic
certification testing. It will store up to 1000
The stored information can be selectively viewed, edited (measured again), printed, or deleted. The data can also be downloaded to
our FREE OWL Reporter software to produce professional-looking formatted certification reports, or can be downloaded as a
comma-delimited file (requires a COM port terminal program such as Hyperterminal) Comma-delimited files can be imported into
computer spreadsheets.
For an additional charge, the length testing port in the Fiber OWL 4 can be replaced by a precision-coupled visual fault locator (VFL)
optimized for fiber optics. An optical ball lens placed near the laser output focuses the red laser light for optimum coupling into optical
fibers (something pen-style laser pointers do not have), and special electronics prevent the red laser from burnout (a common
problem with pen-style red laser pointers), increasing the life of the VFL.
CHARGING NON-RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES COULD POTENTIALLY CAUSE HARM TO THE UNIT AND/OR THE
USER.
measured data points with descriptive link and fiber run labels.
DESCRIPTION

INTRODUCTION
PRECAUTIONS
Safety - Exercise caution when working with any optical equipment. High-intensity fiber optic laser sources output potentially
dangerous high energy invisible light, and could cause serious, irreparable damage to the eye. Thus, it is recommended to
look into the connector port of a light source or the end of a fiber.
Operational - It is important to keep connector ferrules and optical connector ports clean. If dirt, dust, and oil are allowed to build up
inside connector ports, irreparable damage may occur to the optics inside the port. For best results, replace dust caps after each use.
Connector - if the optional Visual Fault Locator is installed, do NOT insert APC (Angled Physical Contact) connectors into the VFL
port on your Fiber OWL4 as this may damage the angled ferrule on theAPC connector.
NEVER
On the back of each Fiber OWL 4 series optical power meter are labels similar to the ones shown below containing model number,
serial number, power requirements, and special cautionary information. If the unit is enclosed in its protective boot, the boot must be
removed to view this label.
PRODUCT LABEL
MODEL# FO-4B
LIGHT SOURCE INFORMATION
OUTPUT POWER: -10.0dBm
WAVELENGTH: 1310 nm
TYPE: FP LASER
CLASS 1M LASER PRODUCT
NEVER LOOK INTO ANY LIGHT SOURCE!
LASER
RADIATION
MODEL# FO-4B
SERIAL# FO49999
POWER: 9V DC
Made in USA
Conforms to the Harmonized
European Standards
EN61726-1 and EN61010-1
Optical Wavelength Laboratories
Whitewater, WI 53190 • 262-473-0643
MODEL# FO-4V
LIGHT SOURCE INFORMATION
C
OUTPUT POWER: 0.0dBm
WAVELENGTH: 650nm
LASS 2 LASER PRODUCT
NEVER LOOK INTO ANY LIGHT SOURCE!
LASER
RADIATION
MODEL# FO-4V
SERIAL# FO49999
POWER: 9V DC
Made in USA
Conforms to the Harmonized
European Standards
EN61726-1 and EN61010-1
Optical Wavelength Laboratories
Whitewater, WI 53190 • 262-473-0643
For models that include length testing: For models that include the optional VFL:

GENERAL FEATURES
INTRODUCTION
DETECTOR USB
* CAUTION *
LIGHT SOURCE
13
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2.5mm Universal Connector Port - accepts many popular 2.5mm
ferrule connectors, including ST, SC, and FC. Also included is a
1.25mm universal adapter cap (for connection to LC, MU, and other
SFF connectors).
USB Serial Download Port - downloads stored data to a PC using the
supplied USB download cable. Also used for charging re-chargeable
batteries (not included).
Light Source Port - By default, contains a 1310nm laser source to be
used for round-robin length measurement. Optionally, this port could
contain a precision-coupled visual fault locator.
LCD Display - shows optical power/loss levels, power units,
temperature, battery life, wavelength, and circuit ID information.
DO NOT USE BATTERY CHARGING PORT WITH NON-
RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES, AS THIS COULD POTENTIALLY
CAUSE HARM TO THE UNIT AND/OR THE USER.
- function keys activate certain menu options shown at
the bottom of the Fiber OWL4 LCD display
- enables user to enter alpha-
numeric data, as well as activate certain menu options
- activates the MAIN MENU
- while in the menu system, reverts the user back one menu
level; during data entry, enters the data input and sends the user to the
next screen
- activates the light source menu
- turns the unit ON and OFF. Also, toggles the backlight state
while the unit is powered on.
- toggles AUTO mode on and off. AUTO mode allows the Fiber
OWL 4 to automatically switch wavelengths when used with OWL
auto-switching light sources
- lights up when the battery charger is active
F1 F2 F3
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ABC
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DEF
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GHI
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JKL
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MNO
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PQR
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STU
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VWX
9
YZ
0
. - /
MENU
DONE
AUTO
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12

GENERAL FEATURES - LCD DISPLAY
INTRODUCTION
3
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9
The screen at right shows information when power readings are being taken. We will refer to this screen throughout this manual as
IMMEDIATE MODE.
POWER READING - shows the amount of optical
power being received by the photodetector based
upon the type of power units currently being
displayed. “UNDER” means there is no
measurable optical power and “OVER” means
the detector is “blinded” by too much optical
power
POWER UNITS - shows the power units which
are currently being displayed
dBm - optical power in decibels relative to a
milliwatt of optical energy
dB - optical power in decibels relative to a
previously set optical reference, also known as
optical loss
uW - optical power in micro- (uW) or milli-watts (mW)
TONE DETECTION - shows ‘Hz’if a modulated signal is being detected by the meter
TEMPERATURE - shows current temperature in degrees (selectable Fahrenheit or Celcius)
BATTERY LIFE - shows the percentage amount of remaining battery life; will flash when battery is low
LINK NAME - shows the name of the currently loaded fiber link (CERTIFICATION METER mode only)
FIBER RUN - shows the current fiber information (CERTIFICATION METER mode only)
FBR: - user-configurable descriptive fiber name
123 - auto-incrementing fiber number (from 1 to 999)
FUNCTION OPTIONS MENU - functions corresponding to the function keys on the keypad; the options on this menu will change
according to the current function
POWER METER WAVELENGTH - shows the currently selected wavelength (see the specifications in the appendix at the end of this
manual for a list of wavelengths); will also alternate between wavelength and ‘AUTO’ when set to automatic wavelength detection
BAT
CHECKING YOUR FIBER OWL 4 FIRMWARE VERSION
This manual is written for the Fiber OWL4 firmware version 4.67. Follow the instructions below to verify your firmware version.
Press to start up the meter.
After the owl flies across the initial boot-up screen, your display
should look like the diagram at right. This screen remains viewable for
approximately 2 seconds.
Previous firmware versions may require a different operations guide.
Check our website at OWL-INC.COM or call 262-473-0643 for more
information about acquiring the correct manual.
COMPANY NAME
COMPANY PHONE
SERIAL NUMBER
FIRMWARE VERSION
............
SN:FO4xxxx
..................
V4 67.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX82
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX98%
UNITS STORE WAVEXXX XXX
FBR:123 850nmXXXXXXXX1
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXdBm
_____________________
X X21 24
Fiber Link #1x x XX1850nm
Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Diagram
IMMEDIATE MODE
2
3
4
5
9
1
6
7
8
F1 F2 F3

Required Accessories
(1 or 2) one-meter patch cable(s) – (ensure proper connector type and fiber type)
Direct Transmitter Output Power Measurement
To measure the output power from a transmitter, use the following steps:
Connect the Fiber OWL 4 detector port to the transmitter port on
the active equipment under test, as shown at right.
Press to power on the Fiber OWL 4 optical power meter,
then select SIMPLE METER, if necessary.
Determine the output wavelength of the active equipment, then
press until the wavelength on the Fiber OWL4 matches.
Power on the transmitter port according to manufacturer
instructions, if necessary.
Monitor the reading on the screen for a few seconds. This reading may fluctuate if the output signal is made up of digital
zeroes (0) and ones (1). In this case, estimate the average power level. To calculate maximum output power, add 3 dB to
the average power level.
Transmitters may have a diagnostic mode where the output is at a continuous power level. This eliminates the
need to compensate 3dB for digital data transmission. Consult the active equipment manufacturer’s operations
guide for more information.
Receive Power Measurement
The Fiber OWL 4 may also be used to measure optical power levels from a
transmitter through an installed link to ensure that the Receive power at the
far end is within manufacturer specifications.
Follow the same steps as above, except the Fiber OWL 4 must be
connected to the active equipment under test through the installed link as
shown at right.
F3
TEST PROCEDURES
ACTIVE EQUIPMENT POWER MEASUREMENT
Active Equipment
Transmitter Power
Measurement
Receive Power
Measurement
12345678910 11 12 12345678910 11 12

Required Accessories
(2) one-meter patch cables – (ensure proper connector type and fiber type)
Checking for Fiber Continuity
The Fiber OWL 4 can be used to verify continuity of a fiber link, or can be
used to trace an optical fiber if the fibers are not properly labeled. Use the
following procedure to test either multimode and singlemode cables.
Connect a fiber optic light source to the network port under test as
shown at right. Power on the light source according to manufacturer
instructions.
Press to power on the Fiber OWL 4 optical power meter,
then select SIMPLE METER, if necessary.
Press until the wavelength on the Fiber OWL 4 matches the
output wavelength of the light source.
Take the Fiber OWL 4 optical power meter to the opposite end of the link under test, and connect into the first port as shown
in the diagram above. If the Fiber OWL 4 does not detect any optical power, the display will read “UNDER”. Continue
connecting to subsequent optical ports until the Fiber OWL4 display shows an optical power reading.
If none of the ports display an optical power reading, then it is likely that there is a major connectivity problem with the link,
and further troubleshooting is necessary to determine the nature of the problem.
F3
TEST PROCEDURES
FIBER CONTINUITY
FIBER CONTINUITY
MEASUREMENT
12345678910 11 12 12345678910 11 12

Required Accessories
(3) one-meter patch cables – (ensure proper connector type and fiber type)
(2) fiber optic adapters/couplers – (ensure proper connector type)
Patch Cable Insertion Loss
Patch cables should be tested periodically to ensure that they are okay to
use for testing. Use the following procedure to test both multimode and
singlemode patch cables.
If testing at more than one wavelength, this
procedure must be performed for each wavelength
separately.
Connect the Fiber OWL 4 to a fiber optic light source using the 3-
jumper reference method as shown at right. Power on the light
source according to manufacturer instructions.
Press to power on the Fiber OWL 4 optical power meter,
then select SIMPLE METER, if necessary.
Press until the wavelength on the Fiber OWL 4 matches the
output wavelength of the light source.
Press to set the reference, or “ZERO”. The Fiber OWL 4 will change to show loss in ‘dB’, and the loss value should be
very close to 0.00 dB.
Setting a reference is commonly referred to as
“zeroing”.
Remove the center cable as shown at right.
Insert a patch cable under test between the two fiber optic
adapters/couplers, then record the loss value in ‘dB’.
Repeat steps and for each patch cable being tested.
F3
F2
TEST PROCEDURES
PATCH CABLE TESTING
3-jumper Reference
Method Setup
Insertion Loss Test

TEST PROCEDURES
Checking Fiber OWL 4 Series Optical Power
Meters for Proper Operation
USING A DUAL OWL MULTIMODE LIGHT SOURCE
STEP 1 - Connect Fiber OWL 4 and Dual OWL
Connect the Fiber OWL 4 and Dual OWL together with an orange
multimode patch cable as shown below.
STEP 2 - Power ON the Fiber OWL 4
Press to power on the Fiber OWL 4.
After a few seconds, the
OPERATING MODE screen will
appear on the Fiber OWL 4
display, with SIMPLE METER
being highlighted as shown at
right.
STEP 3 - Enter SIMPLE METER
Press on the Fiber OWL 4
to enter SIMPLE METER.
The di splay sho uld rea d
‘UNDER’ as shown at right.
By default, the wavelength will
be set to ‘850nm’and the
measurement units will be set to ‘dBm’.
NOTE: it is recommended to thoroughly clean and inspect all
patch cord connectors before making any connection.
F2
X XXNEXT SELECT
x XCERTIFICATION METER
XXXX XTECH SUPPORT
xx- X -OPERATING MODE
_____________________
XXXX XSIMPLE METER
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX82
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX98%
UNITS ZERO WAVEXXX XXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX850nm
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXdBm
_____________________
UNDER
STEP 4 - Power ON the Dual OWL
Press to power on the Dual OWL.
The 850nm indicator LED
should now be lit as shown at
right.
STEP 5 - Check optical power
The power reading that appears
on the Fiber OWL 4 display will
depend upon cable type.
Consult the table below for a list
of acceptable power readings.
STEP 6 - Replace the patch cable
The easiest way to troubleshoot low power levels is to try another
patch cable. Over time, patch cables can wear out or become
damaged the more they are used for optical loss testing.
Replacing the patch cable usually fixes the problem.
STEP7 - Clean patch cables and optical ports
If the problem still exists after patch cable replacement, there
may be some debris, such as dust, dirt, or finger oil, that has
collected on the connector endface or in the equipment optical
ports.
Thoroughly clean and inspect the optical ports of the Fiber OWL
4 and the Dual OWL, as well as the fiber connector endfaces,
according to the brochures that have been included with this kit.
Several cleaning cycles may be required.
If the power level is still to low, even after a thorough cleaning and
inspection and patch cable replacement, contact OWL technical
support at 262-473-0643 for more information.
NOTE: the following steps are only required if the optical power
reading on the Fiber OWL 4 is too low.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX82
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX98%
UNITS ZERO WAVEXXX XXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX1850nm
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXdBm
_____________________
X X20 00
Core Size
62.5/125 µM
50/125 µM
Replace at
-21.00 dBm
-24.00 dBm
Acceptable Power Level
-19.0 to -21.0 dBm
-22.0 to -24.0 dBm
CHECK MULTIMODE REFERENCE CABLES
WITH A DUAL OWL MULTIMODE LIGHT SOURCE
DUAL OWL
connected to
850nm port
LIGHT SOURCE CONNECTOR
PORT NOTES:
– CONNECTOR TYPE MAY VARY
– DO NOT INSERT ANGLED
PHYSICAL CONTACT (APC)
CONNECTOR

Checking Fiber OWL 4 Series Optical Power
Meters for Proper Operation
USING A WAVESOURCE MULTIMODE LIGHT SOURCE
STEP 1 - Connect Fiber OWL 4 and WaveSource
Connect the Fiber OWL 4 and WaveSource together with a
orange multimode patch cable as shown below.
STEP 2 - Power ON the Fiber OWL 4
Press to power on the Fiber
OWL 4.
After a few seconds, the
OPERATING MODE screen will
appear on the Fiber OWL 4
display, with SIMPLE METER
being highlighted as shown at right.
STEP 3 - Enter SIMPLE METER
Press on the Fiber OWL 4
to enter SIMPLE METER.
The displa y shoul d read
‘UNDER’ as shown at right.
By default, the wavelength will
be set to ‘850nm’and the measurement units will be set to
‘dBm’.
NOTE: thoroughly clean and inspect all patch cord connectors
before making any connection.
F2
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX82
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX98%
UNITS ZERO WAVEXXX XXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX850nm
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXdBm
_____________________
UNDER
STEP 4 - Power ON the WaveSource
Press to power on the
WaveSource.
The 850nm indicator LED should
now be lit as shown at right.
STEP 5 - Check optical
power
The power reading that appears
on the Fiber OWL 4 display will
depend upon cable type.
Consult the table below for a list
of acceptable power readings.
STEP 6 - Replace the patch cable
The easiest way to troubleshoot low power levels is to try another
patch cable. Over time, patch cables can wear out or become
damaged the more they are used for optical loss testing.
Replacing the patch cable usually fixes the problem.
STEP 7 - Clean patch cables and optical ports
If the problem still exists after patch cable replacement, there
may be some debris, such as dust, dirt, or finger oil, that has
collected on the connector endface or in the equipment optical
ports.
Thoroughly clean and inspect the optical ports of the Fiber OWL
4 and the WaveSource, as well as the fiber connector endfaces,
according to the brochures that have been included with this kit.
Several cleaning cycles may be required.
If the power level is still too low, even after a thorough cleaning
and inspection and patch cable replacement, contact OWL
technical support at 262-473-0643 for more information.
NOTE: the following steps are only required if the optical power
reading on the Fiber OWL 4 is too low.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX82
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX98%
UNITS ZERO WAVEXXX XXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX1850nm
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXdBm
_____________________
X X20 00
WaveSource
connected to
850nm port
TEST PROCEDURES
CHECK MULTIMODE REFERENCE CABLES
WITH A WAVESOURCE MULTIMODE LIGHT SOURCE
Core Size
62.5/125 µM
50/125 µM
Replace at
-21.00 dBm
-24.00 dBm
Acceptable Power Level
-19.0 to -21.0 dBm
-22.0 to -24.0 dBm
LIGHT SOURCE CONNECTOR
PORT NOTES:
– CONNECTOR TYPE MAY VARY
– DO NOT INSERT ANGLED
PHYSICAL CONTACT (APC)
CONNECTOR
X XXNEXT SELECT
x XCERTIFICATION METER
XXXX XTECH SUPPORT
xx- X -OPERATING MODE
_____________________
XXXX XSIMPLE METER

Checking Fiber OWL 4 Series Optical Power
Meters for Proper Operation
USING A LASER OWL SINGLEMODE LASER SOURCE
STEP 1 - Connect Fiber OWL 4 and Laser OWL
Connect the Fiber OWL 4 and Laser OWL together with a yellow
singlemode patch cable as shown below.
STEP 2 - Power ON the Fiber OWL 4
Press to power on the
Fiber OWL 4.
After a few seconds, the
OPERATING MODE screen will
appear on the Fiber OWL 4
display, with SIMPLE METER
being highlighted as shown at right.
STEP 3 - Enter SIMPLE METER
Press on the Fiber OWL 4
to enter SIMPLE METER.
The di splay sho uld rea d
‘UNDER’ as shown at right.
By default, the wavelength will
be set to ‘850nm’and the measurement units will be set to
‘dBm’.
NOTE: it is recommended to thoroughly clean and inspect all
patch cord connectors before making any connection.
F2
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX82
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX98%
UNITS ZERO WAVEXXX XXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX850nm
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXdBm
_____________________
UNDER
STEP 4 - Set Fiber OWL 4 to 1310nm
Press on the Fiber OWL 4.
The wavelength display will
show ‘1310nm’ as shown at
right.
STEP 5 - Power ON the Laser OWL
Press to power on the Laser OWL.
The 1310nm indicator LED
should now be lit as shown at
right.
STEP 6 - Check optical power
The power reading displayed on
the Fiber OWL 4 will probably
not be exactly -10.00 dBm as
shown at right, but should be
fairly close.
Repeat this procedure for each
additional patch cable that
needs testing.
STEP 7 - Replace the patch cable
The easiest way to troubleshoot low power levels is to try another
patch cable. Over time, patch cables can wear out or become
damaged the more they are used for optical loss testing.
Replacing the patch cable usually fixes the problem.
STEP 8 - Clean patch cables and optical ports
If the problem still exists after patch cable replacement, there
may be some debris, such as dust, dirt, or finger oil, that has
collected on the connector endface or in the equipment optical
ports.
Thoroughly clean and inspect the optical ports of the Fiber OWL
4 and the Laser OWL, as well as the fiber connector endfaces,
according to the brochures that have been included with this kit.
Several cleaning cycles may be required.
If the power level is still below -11.00 dBm, even after a thorough
cleaning and inspection and patch cable replacement, contact
OWL technical support at 262-473-0643 for more information.
NOTE: this test may also be run
at 1550nm by setting the power
meter and source to 1550nm.
NOTE: the following steps are only required if the optical power
reading on the Fiber OWL 4 is -11.00 dBm or below.
F3 F3 F3
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX82
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX98%
UNITS ZERO WAVEXXX XXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX1310nm
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXdBm
_____________________
UNDER
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX82
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX98%
UNITS ZERO WAVEXXX XXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX1310nm
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXdBm
_____________________
X X10 00
LASER OWL
connected to
1310nm port
TEST PROCEDURES
CHECK SINGLEMODE REFERENCE CABLES
WITH A LASER OWL SINGLEMODE LASER SOURCE
LIGHT SOURCE CONNECTOR
PORT NOTES:
– CONNECTOR TYPE MAY VARY
– DO NOT INSERT ANGLED
PHYSICAL CONTACT (APC)
CONNECTOR
X XXNEXT SELECT
x XCERTIFICATION METER
XXXX XTECH SUPPORT
xx- X -OPERATING MODE
_____________________
XXXX XSIMPLE METER

Checking Fiber OWL 4 Series Optical Power
Meters for Proper Operation
USING A WAVESOURCE SINGLEMODE LASER SOURCE
STEP 1 - Connect Fiber OWL 4 and WaveSource
Connect the Fiber OWL 4 and WaveSource together with a
yellow singlemode patch cable as shown below.
STEP 2 - Power ON the Fiber OWL 4
Press to power on the Fiber OWL 4.
After a few seconds, the
OPERATING MODE screen will
appear on the Fiber OWL 4
display, with SIMPLE METER
being highlighted as shown at
right.
STEP 3 - Enter SIMPLE METER
Press on the Fiber OWL 4 to enter SIMPLE METER.
The displa y shoul d read
‘UNDER’ as shown at right.
By default, the wavelength will
be set to ‘850nm’and the
measurement units will be set to
‘dBm’.
NOTE: thoroughly clean and inspect all patch cord connectors
before making any connection.
F2
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX82
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX98%
UNITS ZERO WAVEXXX XXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX850nm
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXdBm
_____________________
UNDER
STEP 4 - Set Fiber OWL 4 to 1310nm
Press on the Fiber OWL 4.
The wavelength display will
show ‘1310nm’ as shown at
right.
STEP 5 - Set the WaveSource to 1310nm
Press to set the WaveSource to 1310nm.
The SM PORT indicator LED
should now be as shown at
right.
STEP 6 - Check optical power
The power reading displayed on
the Fiber OWL 4 will probably
not be exactly -10.00 dBm as
shown at right, but should be
fairly close.
Repeat this procedure for each
additional patch cable that needs testing.
STEP 7 - Replace the patch cable
The easiest way to troubleshoot low power levels is to try another
patch cable. Over time, patch cables can wear out or become
damaged the more they are used for optical loss testing.
Replacing the patch cable usually fixes the problem.
STEP 8 - Clean patch cables and optical ports
If the problem still exists after patch cable replacement, there
may be some debris, such as dust, dirt, or finger oil, that has
collected on the connector endface or in the equipment optical
ports.
Thoroughly clean and inspect the optical ports of the Fiber OWL
4 and the Laser OWL, as well as the fiber connector endfaces,
according to the brochures that have been included with this kit.
Several cleaning cycles may be required.
If the power level is still below -11.00 dBm, even after a thorough
cleaning and inspection and patch cable replacement, contact
OWL technical support at 262-473-0643 for more information.
red
NOTE: the following steps are only required if the optical power
reading on the Fiber OWL 4 is -11.00 dBm or below.
F3 F3 F3
PORT
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX82
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX98%
UNITS ZERO WAVEXXX XXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX1310nm
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXdBm
_____________________
UNDER
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX82
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX98%
UNITS ZERO WAVEXXX XXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX1310nm
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXdBm
_____________________
X X10 00
WaveSource
connected to 1310nm port
TEST PROCEDURES
CHECK SINGLEMODE REFERENCE CABLES
WITH A WAVESOURCE SINGLEMODE LASER SOURCE
LIGHT SOURCE CONNECTOR
PORT NOTES:
– CONNECTOR TYPE MAY VARY
– DO NOT INSERT ANGLED
PHYSICAL CONTACT (APC)
CONNECTOR
X XXNEXT SELECT
x XCERTIFICATION METER
XXXX XTECH SUPPORT
xx- X -OPERATING MODE
_____________________
XXXX XSIMPLE METER

REQUIRED ACCESSORIES
(2-3) one-meter patch cables – ensure proper connector type and fiber type
(1) fiber optic mandrel – used for setting references with multimode cables only; see table below for mandrel sizes
multimode reference cables must be wrapped and secured around a mandrel as required by national and
international Fiber Optic Test Procedures (FOTPs). See Figure 1 above for a diagram of a mandrel wrap.
if you are testing at both 850nm and 1300nm, each light source wavelength will require its own mandrel-
wrapped patch cable.
EQUIPMENT PORTS
Figure 2 shows the ports used during this procedure. These ports may vary depending upon the model of equipment.
Figure 1
Mandrel Wrap
50/125 µm 62.5/125 µm
Diameter
Wraps
0.9 in. 0.7 in.
5 5
QUICK REFERENCE GUIDES
Optical Power Meter: Fiber OWL 4
Fiber Optic Light Source: DUAL OWL Series Multimode Sources PAGE 1 OF 6
850 nm
1300 nm
Dual OWL multimode
light source
FIGURE 2
Test Equipment Ports
(connector port on
light source may vary)
Detector
Fiber OWL 4 BOLT power meter
Length Tester

VERIFY PROPER OPERATION OF THE EQUIPMENT
Connect the power meter and light source together with one of the patch cables as shown in Figure 3.
Press to power on the Dual OWL multimode light source.
Press to power on the Fiber OWL4.
From the OPERATING MODE menu, press to highlight SIMPLE METER, if necessary, then press to SELECT.
Compare the reading on the Fiber OWL4 display to Table 1 for acceptable power levels.
Once proper operation has been verified, remove the first patch cable from both units and set it aside.
Connect the second straight patch cable between the Fiber OWL4 and the Dual OWL, as shown in Figure 3.
Compare the reading on the Fiber OWL4 display to Table 1 for acceptable power levels.
Once proper operation has been verified, remove the second patch cable from both units and set it aside.
(continue procedure on next page)
F1 F2
QUICK REFERENCE GUIDES
PAGE 2 OF 6
Core Size
62.5/125 µM
50/125 µM
Replace at
-21.00 dBm
-24.00 dBm
Acceptable Power Level
-19.0 to -21.0 dBm
-22.0 to -24.0 dBm
TABLE 1
FIGURE 3
Connection
for Straight
Patch Cables
LIGHT SOURCE CONNECTOR
PORT NOTES:
– CONNECTOR TYPE MAY VARY
– DO NOT INSERT ANGLED
PHYSICAL CONTACT (APC)
CONNECTOR
Optical Power Meter: Fiber OWL 4
Fiber Optic Light Source: DUAL OWL Series Multimode Sources

Connect a mandrel-wrapped patch cable between the Fiber OWL4 and the Dual OWLas shown in Figure 4.
Compare the reading on the Fiber OWL4 display to Table 1 for acceptable power levels.
Disconnect this cable from both units, and set it aside. Press to return to the OPERATING MODE menu.
RUN LINK WIZARD
From the OPERATING MODE menu, press to highlight CERTIFICATION METER, then press to SELECT.
From the START MENU, press to start the LINK WIZARD.
From the STORED LINKS menu, press to highlight the stored link name you wish to use and
press to SELECT.
OPTIONAL: you may change the link name to something that better describes the group of fibers
you are testing. Enter the new name for the link, then press to continue.
Change the LINK DATE to the date of test using the format MM-DD-YY, then press .
The date of test must be set so that the correct date appears on certification reports.
DONE
F1 F2
1
ABC
F1
F2
DONE
DONE
QUICK REFERENCE GUIDES
PAGE 3 OF 6
FIGURE 4
Connection for
Mandrel-Wrapped
Patch Cables
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
X X XXXXXX<1>LINK WIZARD
XX XXXXXXXX<2>MAIN MENU
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXX X XXXXXXSTART MENU
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XX x x xXxxxxxFiber Link 2
x XX XXXXXXXXNEXT SELECT
XX x x xXxxxxxFiber Link 3
XX x x xxXxxxxFiber Link 4
XXXX X XXXXXSTORED LINKS
_____________________
XX x x XxxxxxxFiber Link 1
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
x XXX XXX X<--- SHIFT --->
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
[Fiber Link 1 ]x x xXxxx
LINK NAME:X XXXXXXXXXXX
_____________________
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
X XXX XXX X<--- SHIFT --->
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
[03-20-08]
DATE: [MM/DD/YY]X
_____________________
LIGHT SOURCE CONNECTOR
PORT NOTES:
– CONNECTOR TYPE MAY VARY
– DO NOT INSERT ANGLED
PHYSICAL CONTACT (APC)
CONNECTOR
Optical Power Meter: Fiber OWL 4
Fiber Optic Light Source: DUAL OWL Series Multimode Sources

Press to highlight the fiber optic cabling standard, then press to SELECT.
Press to highlight the fiber type of the network under test, then press to SELECT.
Press to use measure the fiber length with the Fiber OWL 4 BOLT, or to enter the length
manually, press and skip to .
Connect the Fiber OWL 4 BOLT to your fiber link as shown in Figure 5, then press to
continue.
Review the end-to-end fiber length, then press to continue. In the example screenshot at
right, the end-to-end fiber length could be within the range of 1000 to 1006 meters.
The end-to-end length shown here is the length that will be entered into the Link Wizard
configuration. Press to continue.
OPTIONAL: you may also enter the fiber length manually from this screen.
If unsure about which cabling standard to use, select TIA-568-B.3.
Length testing is complete. You may now remove all of the patch cables from the link under test.
F1 F2
F1 F2
1
ABC
2
DEF
F1
F2
DONE
QUICK REFERENCE GUIDES
PAGE 4 OF 6
[1 TO 65535]X X
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
x XXX XXX X<--- UNITS --->
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
[01000]X XXMETERS
ENTER FIBER LENGTH:X X XX
_____________________
12345678910 11 12 12345678910 11 12
FIGURE 5
Fiber OWL 4 BOLT
Length Test Connection
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XX X X xx50 0um MultiMode
x XX XXXXXXXXNEXT SELECT
xx X xOUTDOOR SingleMode
XXXXX X XXXXXFIBER TYPES
_____________________
XX X xxINDOOR SingleMode
XX X X xxx62 5um MultiMode
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
X X X XXXXXUSER DEFINED #1
X X X XXXXXUSER DEFINED #2
x XX XXXXXXXXNEXT SELECT
X X XXXXXXXISO/IEC 11801
xx X XXXXFIBER STANDARDS
_____________________
X X XTIA-568B 3/CAN-T529
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
X X X X X<1> USE THE METER TO
XXXXX X XXMEASURE LENGTH
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
X X X XXXX<2> ENTER LENGTH
x X X XFIBER LENGTH METHOD
XXXXX XXXXXXXXMANUALLY
FIBER A FIBER BX XXXXXXX X
PATCH FIBER A TOX X X XXXXX
DONEXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
END OF THE LINKX X X XXXXXX
xxxx XX XX XXXX^ CONNECT ^
_____________________
FIBER B AT THE FARX X X X XXX
(FIBER PAIR REQUIRED)X X
XXXX X XXXXXFIBER LENGTH
XX X X x01000 -0/+6 meters
X XXX XXX XTEST DONE INDEX
1310nm Index(n)=1 490x x
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
_____________________
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
LIGHT SOURCE CONNECTOR
PORT NOTES:
– CONNECTOR TYPE MAY VARY
– DO NOT INSERT ANGLED
PHYSICAL CONTACT (APC)
CONNECTOR
Optical Power Meter: Fiber OWL 4
Fiber Optic Light Source: DUAL OWL Series Multimode Sources

Enter the number of connections (i.e. patch panels) in the link under test, then press to
continue.
Enter the number of splices in the link under test, then press to continue. Splices can be
either fusion or mechanical. Typical multimode networks will have zero splices.
Review your Link Wizard setup.
If correct, press to continue on to the next step.
If changes need to be made, press and go back to .
Press until the asterisk (*) is in front of 850nm (as shown at right), then press to begin
the SET REFERENCE procedure for 850nm.
Connect the Fiber OWL 4 detector port and the 850nm light source (left-hand port) together with
the mandrel-wrapped cable as shown in Figure 4, then press to continue.
Make sure that the 850nm light source port is powered ON and selected (the indicator LED on the
left-hand side will be lit).
Confirm setting the 850nm reference by pressing to continue. You will be returned to the
SET SOURCE REFERENCES screen.
For setting a 1300nm reference, repeat steps through , except you will select 1300nm
(as shown at right). Also, make sure that the Dual OWL is set to 1300nm (the right-hand indicator LED will be lit).
After the 1300nm reference is set, the REF dBm field will be filled in with a reference value.
Press to complete the Link Wizard.
Press to begin taking readings.
Typical fiber networks will have 2 connections – one for a patch panel located at each
end of the link.
some connectors use mechanical splice technology for termination. If the link under
test is terminated with these “no-polish, no-epoxy” type connectors, they should be considered as
mechanical splices.
if you are also testing at 1300nm, you will need to connect a separate mandrel-wrapped
patch cable to the 1300nm port.
DONE
DONE
F1
F3
F1 F2
F1
F1
F3
F1
WAVELEN REF dBm TYPX X xx X
---------------------
* 850nm NOT SET (-20)X X X X
X XXXX XXXX XWAVE SET DONE
X X X X1300nm NOT SET (-20)
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
SET SOURCE REFERENCESX X
_____________________
SET 850nmXX
X XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXYES NO
REFERENCE?
_____________________
WAVELEN REF dBm TYPX X xx X
---------------------
xX X x xX850nm -20 00 (-20)
X XXXX XXXX XWAVE SET DONE
*1300nm NOT SET (-20)X X X
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
SET SOURCE REFERENCESX X
_____________________
01000 Metersx xxxxxxxxx
02 Connectionsx xxxxxxx
00 Splicesx xxxxxxxxxxx
X XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXYES NO
62 5um MultiModex x
IS THIS CORRECT?X X XXXXX
TIA-568B 3/CAN-T529X XX
_____________________
Standard »
Length »
Connections »
Splices »
Fiber Type »
QUICK REFERENCE GUIDES
PAGE 5 OF 6
(A CONNECTION IS WHENX X X
TWO FIBER CONNECTORSX X X
MATE USUALLY A PATCHXX X X
x XXX XXXX X<--- FEET --->
PANEL)XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
[2 ]X XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
INLINE CONNECTIONS?X XX
_____________________
SPLICES IN THE FIBERX X X X
BEING TESTED:X XXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
x XXX XXXX X<--- FEET --->
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
[0 ]X XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
ENTER THE NUMBER OFX X X XX
_____________________
850nm
DONE
SOURCE
CONNECT
_____________________
Optical Power Meter: Fiber OWL 4
Fiber Optic Light Source: DUAL OWL Series Multimode Sources