This new, free whitepaper from M2 Optics Inc. discusses the importance of simulating a physical fiber optic network in the laboratory and best practices for achieving maximum results.
 

Engineers performing fiber optic network simulation testing with the goal of certifying that their equipment will work as intended once deployed in the field, often require the use of optical fiber spools to complete these procedures.  Since it is crucial these tests produce both correct and reliable results, below are some tips for ensuring the most positive results.

In many cases, the primary focus of a fiber network simulation platform is on the electro-optical equipment at both ends of the fiber optic link.  Since the purpose of network simulators is to evaluate the DUT (Device Under Test) equipment, it only makes sense that this is where the attention will be. However, it is a crucial mistake to forget about both the stability and consistency of the test fiber because the DUT test results (performance, pass/ fail, etc) totally depend on knowing that the optical fiber characteristics are consistent and very reliable.

As the use of fiber optic equipment in communications systems continues to grow worldwide, network simulation testing has become vitally important for vendors seeking to offer their equipment for use in the field.