ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the basic techniques employed to test optical fibre devices, using optical switches as an example. It presents common testing methods required by industry standards. The chapter examines how to use some optical-testing instruments, such as an optical spectrum analyser (OSA). The testing of optical-fibre devices is based on two different measurement aspects of light output: power and frequency. Power measurements refer to light intensity, as measured by photosensitive devices, usually called photodetectors. The frequency of light refers to the colour of the light. The chapter describes common optical-power loss measurements. Insertion loss (IL) occurs in all optical-fibre devices, such as fibre-optic cables, optical-passband filters and optical switches, which are discussed in more detail throughout the text. The chapter then provides the most common tests on optical fibre switches required by industry standards and consumers. They are mechanical tests, environmental test, repeatability test, speed test, light wavelength measurements, device power handling tests, and troubleshooting.
