An Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) is an essential device used by fiber optic technicians for validating the continuity and integrity of optical fiber spans along with identifying and locating physical issues like breaks and degradations that negatively affect signal performance. As OTDRs are complex devices that must be configured properly by the user for each test scenario, classroom training is critical for learning and training purposes, ensuring that technicians are taking the most accurate measurements when using in the field network environment.

With the goal of helping fiber technicians, engineers, and telecom enthusiasts learn more about using and managing fiber, M2 offers several highly useful tools and resources for calculating fiber latency accurately, simulating fiber networks and technical optical fiber reference guides. There are several types of fibers and understanding more about them is extremely important for engineers working in the field of networking and communications. Designed by engineers for engineers, every solution and resource is geared to maximize value, benefit everyone, efficiency, and versatility to help you achieve your project goals. 

The use of fiber optic cables for communications dates back to the 1950s when some of the first demonstrations of the world’s earliest transmission systems occurred. Since then, continuous innovation of optical fiber has significantly improved the performance characteristics to a level that now fiber optic cables serve as the backbone for global communications systems.

Fiber optic testing and training are important aspects of ensuring optical communications networks operate successfully as designed and intended. When thinking about the big picture, testing and training happen at many different levels and in a variety of instances both before, during, and after the network has been installed.

For many years, communications network equipment manufacturers performed most of the lab testing efforts when designing and certifying their gear for use in the field by their customers.  Now that fiber optic systems are the norm around the world for driving communications, many of the equipment users themselves are testing potential devices before deployment to determine the best solution for their own unique needs.  Financial service providers, utilities, local governments, and smaller regional internet providers have recognized that having even a small and efficient lab setup where they can simulate their network and train technicians can go a long way in optimizing their operations.