5. Conclusion

Since its very beginnings at Bell Laboratories in 1976, the optical reflectometer has been constantly improving and introducing new functions. Originally designed as expert tools, these optoelectronic instruments have evolved into portable, modular, self-contained, easy-to-use devices enhanced by numerous automatic functions. Although they offer simplified display modes, reflectometers could also be described as "reflectoscopes", since the display of the backscatter curve is so rich in information. Fiber optic network technicians can't avoid using optical time domain reflectometers. When using it for the first time, it's best to use the automatic modes for measurement configuration, analysis and storage, paying particular attention to the quality of the various optical connections. The reflectometer's many functions can then be put to use, revealing the full potential of this fabulous investigative...