Modular measurement platform for 2 slots EXFO FTB-2 Pro

SHORT DESCRIPTION

Modular measurement platform EXFO FTB-2 Pro designed to analyze fiber optic lines (including dispersion and optical spectrum), as well as all data transfer protocols up to 111.81 Gbps. The platform can accommodate two single-thickness measurement modules or one double-thickness measurement module. The module type determines the measurement capabilities of the platform.

There are three modules for optical spectrum analysis (FTBx-5235, FTBx-5245 and FTBx-5255), one module for variance analysis (FTB-5700), five optical reflectometer modules (series FTBx-700C), including a unique variable wavelength reflectometer module FTBx-740C, several modules for optical loss measurement, back reflection and fiber certification (series FTBx-940 and FTBx-945), two modules for protocol analysis up to 111.81 Gbps (FTBx-88200NGE and FTBx-88260) and two modules for protocol analysis up to 11.318 Gbps (FTBx-8880 and FTBx-8870). In addition, a video microscope can be connected to the platform to check the quality of optical connectors (series FIP-400B).

The EXFO FTB-2 Pro platform itself is a powerful computer with a quad-core processor and Windows 10 operating system. The platform is ergonomically designed and equipped with a large, high-quality touch screen with a diagonal of 25.6 cm and a resolution of 1280 x 800. The large screen of the device greatly simplifies configuration tests and viewing measurement results, and the powerful processor quickly performs all processing. The presence of the Windows 10 operating system allows you to install any programs on the platform without restrictions.

The EXFO FTB-2 Pro measurement platform is equipped with the latest interfaces for connecting to a computer and peripheral devices: Gigabit Ethernet, one USB 3.0 and two USB 2.0. There is also a Display port connector to which, if necessary, you can connect an additional external monitor. Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are available as an inexpensive option. You can also connect an external wireless 3G/4G modem and a GPS receiver to the platform. To ensure long battery life, the platform uses a high-quality high-capacity Li-ion battery. You can download a full description of all the characteristics of EXFO FTB-2 Pro below on this page in the section Documentation.

Main characteristics:
Measurement of fiber parameters (spectrum analysis, dispersion, reflectometry, loss, ORL, etc.), as well as protocol testing (Ethernet, OTN, SDH/PDH, CPRI, etc.).
Operating system: Windows 10. Processor: 4 cores. RAM: 4 GB.
25.6 cm touchscreen (1280 x 800 resolution).
Built-in optical power meter and VFL illumination (option VPM2X).
Interfaces: USB 3.0, 1G Ethernet and Display port (standard), Wi-Fi and Bluetooth (RF option).
Internal flash memory: 64 GB (standard), 128 GB (optional). Battery type: Li-ion.
Weight: 3.0 kg. Dimensions: 199 x 333 x 119 mm. Working temperature: from 0°С to +50°С.
Two slots for installing modules (platform capabilities depend on the type of modules):
- top optical spectrum analyzer (modules FTBx-5245 and FTBx-5255)
- basic optical spectrum analyzer (module FTBx-5235)
- analyzer of chromatic and PMD dispersion (module FTB-5700)
- reflectometer (46 dB, single mode) for highways (module FTBx-750C)
- reflectometer (40 dB, single mode) variable wavelength (module FTBx-740C)
- reflectometer (42 dB, single mode) for urban networks (module FTBx-735C)
- reflectometer (39 dB, single mode) for PON, FTTx / MDU (module FTBx-730C)
- reflectometer (36 dB, single-mode + multi-mode) for access networks and SCS (module FTBx-720C)
- optical loss, reflection and fiber certification meter (modules FTBx-940 and FTBx-945)
- Ethernet, OTN, SDH/PDH, FC and CPRI analyzers up to 111.81 Gbps (modules FTBx-88200NGE and FTBx-88260)
- Ethernet, OTN, SDH/PDH, FC and CPRI analyzers up to 11.318 Gbps (modules FTBx-8880 and FTBx-8870)
- video microscope for optical connectors (series FIP-400B)
Advanced analysis of fiber optic lines and data transfer protocols

Need a powerful modular four-slot platform? see model EXFO FTB-4 Pro.
Need a compact modular platform for one or two slots? see model EXFO FTB-1v2 Pro.
Necessary inexpensive solution for testing networks up to 10.7 Gbps? Watch the series EXFO MAX-800.
Want to see the full list? Go to the main page by modular platforms for FOCL.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The EXFO FTB-2 Pro modular measurement platform allows you to effectively solve almost all tasks that arise during the construction, modernization and maintenance of modern telecommunication systems. It allows you to thoroughly analyze the characteristics of optical and copper data transmission channels. The platform is compatible with both the latest standards (100G, OTN, ROADM, LTE) and the outdated ones. The exact set of platform capabilities is determined by the types of measurement modules installed.

Currently in production: three modules for analysis optical spectrum (FTBx-5235, FTBx-5245 and FTBx-5255), one module for analysis dispersion (FTB-5700), five modules optical reflectometer (series FTBx-700C), including a unique variable wavelength reflectometer module (FTBx-740C), several modules to measure optical loss, reflection and fiber certification (series FTBx-940 and FTBx-945), two modules for protocol analysis up to 11.318 Gbps (FTBx-8880 and FTBx-8870) and two modules for protocol analysis up to 111.81 Gbps ( FTBx-88200NGE and FTBx-88260). Further on this page, the capabilities of each measurement module are described in detail. Also in development are additional modules that will further expand the capabilities of the EXFO FTB-2 Pro platform.

EXFO FTBx-52x5 Optical Spectrum Analyzer Modules

Optical spectrum analysis is widely used in the start-up and maintenance of DWDM and CWDM systems, when checking EDFA trunk amplifiers, trunk transmitter lasers, multiplexers, filters and other components of optical networks. And at transmission speeds of 40G, 100G and higher, the measurement of spectral characteristics is a mandatory element of ensuring network performance.

Three versions of optical spectrum analyzer modules are available for the EXFO FTB-2 Pro platform: basic version FTBx-5235, version with improved performance FTBx-5245 (both with and without a built-in polarization controller) and a top model FTBx-5255 with maximum possibilities. Structurally, all modules of the FTBx-52x5 series are the same and occupy two slots in the measuring platform. As an example, this photo shows the appearance of the EXFO FTBx-5245 module.

The FTBx-5235 module is the base module and is positioned as an optical spectrum analyzer for DWDM systems with a transmission rate of 10G or less per wavelength, CWDM systems, as well as for mixed DWDM / CWDM networks. The FTBx-5235 module displays the optical spectrum, accurately measures the center frequency and power of each DWDM, CWDM or DWDM over CWDM channel, and measures the signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) individually on each channel in accordance with IEC 61280-2-9 ( interpolation method). This method of measuring OSNR is suitable for any CWDM and for those DWDMs that do not use ROADM reconfigurable optical I/O multiplexers. The full functionality of the FTBx-5235 module is also implemented in a non-modular handheld instrument EXFO FTB-5235.

For optical networks that use ROADM, or if the transmission rate is 40G, 100G or more, you must use the FTBx-5245, FTBx-5245-P or FTBx-5255 analyzer models. Note that the FTBx-5245-P and FTBx-5255 models have a built-in polarization controller and, together with the InB option, allow signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) measurements even in networks containing ROADM.

From the entire EXFO line the most functional and technically advanced optical spectrum analyzers are FTBx-5245-P and FTBx-5255 modules. They support all modern technologies, including IEC 61282-12 Pol-Mux OSNR commissioning measurement at 40G/100G/200G/400G speeds, comprehensive analysis of DWDM systems even with ultra-dense channel placement with a 25 GHz and 12.5 GHz mesh , as well as many other functions and features.

Separately, it is necessary to select the module optical spectrum analyzer FTBx-5255. This module not only has the highest accuracy of the entire EXFO range, but is also the only module that supports IEC 61282-12 Pol-Mux OSNR measurement at 40G/100G/200G/400G speeds. directly during operation.

This screenshot shows the optical spectrum of a 10G DWDM channeled system with a 100 GHz mesh that uses ROADM. The table below the graph shows the measurement results separately for each active channel: center wavelength, power, in-band signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR), noise level, channel width by level -3 dB, channel width by level -20 db.

EXFO FTB-5700 Chromatic and Polarization Modal Dispersion Analyzer Module

When transmitting light pulses through an optical fiber, in addition to attenuation of the pulse power, the effect of distortion of the shape of the pulse itself is observed, which in turn leads to the inability to correctly restore the transmitted sequence of zeros and ones on the receiving side. This distortion of the pulse shape occurs due to two types of dispersion inherent in optical fiber: chromatic dispersion (CD) and polarization mode dispersion (PMD). Therefore, for the correct transmission of information over fiber, especially over long distances and at high speeds (10G or more), it is necessary to measure both types of dispersion and, if necessary, correct the chromatic dispersion using correctly selected compensators.

For the EXFO FTB-2 Pro platform, the FTB-5700 CD and PMD dispersion analyzer module is available. It occupies two slots in the measuring platform. Its appearance is shown in this photo.

The EXFO FTB-5700 CD and PMD Dispersion Analyzer module provides all the necessary measurements to ensure optimal performance of 10G, 40G and 100G networks. Measurements are made in accordance with standards: EIA/TIA FOTP-175B for chromatic dispersion and EIA/TIA FOTP-243, IEC 61282-9 for PMD. The measurement results contain the four main chromatic dispersion characteristics, the three main PMD characteristics, and the total length of the measured fiber. And what is very useful in your work, you can specify the protocol and transmission speed, and the software immediately after the end of the measurement will show if the fiber passed the test.

This screenshot shows the dispersion measurements for a 25,266 meter long fiber. At the bottom right is the protocol and baud rate to be used: STM64. In addition to specific numbers for each dispersion parameter, the program displayed PASS (pass) for HD and PASS (pass) for PMD, which means that for this fiber, the dispersion parameters meet the standards and STM64 can work correctly.

EXFO FTBx-700C series optical reflectometer modules for EXFO FTB-2 Pro platform

For EXFO FTB-2 Pro measurement platforms, EXFO FTB-4 Pro and EXFO FTB-1v2 Pro a series of high-quality optical reflectometers EXFO FTBx-700C is produced in a modular design. The series consists of four models: FTBx-750C module (46 dB, single mode) for long lines, FTBx-735C module (42 dB, single mode) for urban networks, FTBx-730C module (39 dB, single mode) optimized for PON, FTTx/MDU and FTBx-720C module (36 dB single mode + 29 dB multimode) for access networks and SCS. Full functionality of the FTBx-730C and FTBx-720C modules is also implemented in portable devices EXFO MaxTester 730C and 720C.

In addition to the listed classic reflectometers, the FTBx-700C series contains a unique module: FTBx-740C-DWC. This is a reflectometer with a dynamic range of 40 dB and a wavelength variable from 1528 to 1568 nm, which allows you to receive reflectograms of channels with numbers from 12 to 62 in the C band of working DWDM systems (including filters and Add/Drop multiplexers). There is also a variation of the FTBx-740C-CW module with a dynamic range of 37 dB, which provides measurements at 10 or 18 CWDM wavelengths.

The photo below shows the EXFO FTBx-730C module in the SM8 configuration, which, in addition to the reflectometer with standard wavelengths of 1310 nm and 1550 nm (top connector with green rim), also contains a reflectometer for testing active fibers, with an operating wavelength of 1650 nm and a built-in filter (bottom connector with green rim). This photo shows the module separately from the EXFO FTB-2 Pro platform. All FTBx-700C Series OTDR modules are single thickness.

To control any of the modules of optical reflectometers FTBx-700C series uses a single program that is installed on the measurement platforms EXFO FTB-1v2 Pro, FTB-2 Pro and FTB-4 Pro. The user interface of the program is completely Russified. All settings are simple and clear, and the measurement results are displayed in graphical and tabular form. The OTDR program combines EXFO's twenty years of experience in this field and contains all the necessary functions that may be needed in practice. Its detailed user manual in Russian is located below on this page in the section Documentation (OTDR mode).

This figure shows a screenshot of this program as an example. The upper part displays the trace at two wavelengths: 1310 nm (current, black graph) and 1550 nm (light gray graph). Below the trace there is a table of events, which contains automatically calculated results of losses, reflections, etc. for each event detected in the optical fiber under study at a wavelength of 1310 nm. To view the results at 1550 nm, just press one button. On the right are the main control buttons, including a quick save button with automatic file naming.

In addition to classic reflectograms, modules of the EXFO FTBx-700C series can perform measurements in iOLM mode. In this mode, the scatterometer module at each wavelength takes a series of measurements with different pulse lengths and combines them into a simple and intuitive graphical block diagram showing the position, loss, reflection and type of each element. At the same time, the testing parameters for each individual measurement are determined by intelligent algorithms right in the process. Because all optical fibers are different, each iOLM measurement will have a different set of test parameters depending on fiber length, loss, and reflectance. A detailed user guide for iOLM mode is located below on this page in the section Documentation.

Since multiple measurements are taken at each wavelength in iOLM mode, the result is an accurate and visual picture of the condition of each fiber, understandable even for beginners. As an example, this figure shows a screenshot of the program with the results of measurements in the iOLM mode. In the upper part there is a graphical representation of all events found in the fiber with the exact distances to and between them. The middle section shows the insertion and return loss of the entire channel at three wavelengths (1310 nm, 1490 nm and 1550 nm). At the bottom there is an event table where you can view extended information on each event.

In addition to these two modes (OTDR and iOLM), the EXFO FTBx-700C series modules can contain various additional options that further expand the functionality and provide a solution for any task of testing optical fibers (single-mode and multimode) in any type of networks (trunks, urban, PON, SCS, etc.). For a full description of all the characteristics of reflectometric modules of the EXFO FTBx-700C series, see below on this page in the section Documentation.

EXFO FTBx-940 and FTBx-945 Series Optical Loss (IL) and Reflectance (ORL) Modules

The EXFO FTBx-940 and FTBx-945 series of modules are designed for fast and accurate loss and reflection measurements in optical fibers at standard wavelengths: 850 nm, 1300 nm, 1310 nm, 1490 nm, 1550 nm and 1625 nm. If a compatible module is installed at the other end of the fiber, then in just a few seconds for each supported wavelength, you can get: fiber length, loss in dB in the forward direction, loss in dB in the return direction, average loss, return (ORL) in the forward direction and reflection (ORL) in the reverse direction, as well as certification of the fiber to various standards. Full functionality of the FTBx-940 and FTBx-945 modules is also implemented in portable devices EXFO MaxTester MAX-940 and MAX-945.

Within the FTBx-940 and FTBx-945 series, 8 module models are available, which differ in combinations of supported wavelengths and measurement capabilities. The FTBx-940 modules are the simplest, measure loss but do not support reflection measurement (ORL). The FTBx-945 modules can measure both loss and reflection. If the module is equipped with the iCERT option, it can also certify fibers for compliance with various cable standards (TIA-568, ISO/IEC 14763, ISO/IEC 11801, etc.), as well as compliance with the requirements of data transfer protocols (Ethernet, Fiber Channel and etc.). For a full description of all the characteristics of the optical loss measurement and fiber certification modules, see below on this page in the section Documentation.

The photo below shows the appearance of the EXFO FTBx-945 series module in full configuration. The topmost square connector is the main single-mode port of the automatic loss and reflection meter with the FasTesT function. A green bezel around the port means it has an angle-polished APC connector, which has low reflection. Just below the singlemode connector is a second port. This is a multi-mode automatic loss meter with FasTesT function. At the very bottom of the module, under a protective cover, there is a connector for a classic optical power meter with twenty-three calibrated wavelengths in the range from 850 to 1650 nm.

As an example, this figure shows a screenshot of the control program for the FTBx-940 and FTBx-945 modules, which shows the results of the FasTesT function: in a few seconds, for wavelengths of 1310 and 1550 nm, the total fiber loss and reflection loss in two directions were measured. In addition, the length of the fiber was measured, which in this case is 4 kilometers and 463 meters.

EXFO PowerBlazer Series Protocol Analyzer Modules

Series of modules EXFO PowerBlazer for platforms EXFO FTB-1v2 Pro, EXFO FTB-2 Pro and EXFO FTB-4 Pro allows for exhaustive testing of Ethernet, OTN, SDH/PDH, Fiber Channel, CPRI/OBSAI, etc. protocols. Depending on the module, the maximum speed of tested networks can reach up to 111.81 Gbps. There are six models of PowerBlazer series modules: FTBx-8870 module, FTBx-8880 module, FTB-88100G module, FTB-88100NGE module, FTBx-88200NGE module, and FTBx-88260 module. The figure below shows their main features and differences. For a complete description of all the characteristics of the protocol analyzer modules of the EXFO PowerBlazer series, see below on this page in the section Documentation.

The most functional module PowerBlazer series is the EXFO FTBx-88200NGE module. It has the ability to test protocols at speeds up to 111.81 Gbps, including 100G Ethernet, 111.81 Gbps OTN (OTU4) and 10G SDH (STM-64), as well as CPRI/OBSAI, Fiber Channel, and more. The photo below shows the appearance of this module. As you can see, it contains only optical interfaces and is designed for modern networks with speeds from 10 Mbps to 111.81 Gbps. The thickness of this module is one slot.

The EXFO FTBx-88260 module shown in the photo below also has the ability to test protocols at speeds up to 111.81 Gbps, but it equipped with two removable adapters, with the help of which various types of optical signal converters can be installed in the module. This design feature of the module makes it easily adaptable to interfaces that will appear in the future. Removable adapters are currently available for SFP, SFP+, SFP28, QSFP+, QSFP28, and CFP4.

It can be seen from the PowerBlazer Series Measurement Capabilities Comparison Table that the primary purpose of the FTBx-88260 module is Ethernet testing. The thickness of this module is one slot.

The two modules that support all protocols and interfaces with speeds up to 11.318 Gbps are the FTBx-8880 and FTBx-8870 modules. Both modules provide a one-stop solution for testing Ethernet, OTN, SONET/SDH, DSn/PDH, ISDN PRI, Fiber Channel, FTTA, and more. The difference between the FTBx-8880 and the FTBx-8870 is that the FTBx-8870 model lacks several obsolete electrical interfaces (for example, the Bantam connector is missing), due to which the FTBx-8870 module is slightly cheaper. But the difference in price is not very significant, so we recommend that you first of all consider the FTBx-8880 model.

This photo shows the appearance of the FTBx-8880 and FTBx-8870 modules. Their thickness is one slot.

PowerBlazer Series Module Manager, installed on the EXFO FTB-2 Pro platform, has powerful functionality and is simple and clear at the same time. The figure below shows the main menu of this program. As you can see, all tests for transport networks (OTN BERT, Multi-Channel OTN, SDH BERT, etc.), as well as for Ethernet (EtherSAM (Y.1564), RFC 6349, RFC 2544, EtherBERT, traffic generation and monitoring, etc.). A separate tab contains tests for Fiber Channel and CPRI/OBSAI. In addition, this program has additional intelligent modes (iOptics and iSAM), which greatly simplify and speed up complex tests.

After selecting any of these tests, the corresponding window will open on the device screen, in which all the main parameters of the test will already be configured and you can immediately start it. Of course, if necessary, you can change any of the standard test parameters or create your own configuration.

Video microscopes of the EXFO FIP-400B series for checking the quality of optical connectors

Checking the purity and quality of optical connectors - it is a mandatory requirement in the operation of modern networks. There are several international standards (IEC, IPC) that define the method for calculating the degree of purity of a connector, taking into account the amount, size and location of micro-contaminants detected. And the higher the transmission speed over the optical fiber, the more stringent the requirements for the quality of the connectors. This figure shows an example of an optical connector that was found to be non-compliant (unsuitable) by the automatic analysis program due to contamination. The program marked micro-pollutions with red dots, which in this case served as the reason for such a decision.

Realizing the importance of checking the quality of optical connectors and maximizing the automation of this process, EXFO has developed innovative series of video microscopes FIP-400B. There are five models in the series. Three with USB interface (models: FIP-410B, FIP-420B and FIP-430B) that can be connected either to a computer or directly to EXFO instruments (including the EXFO FTB-2 Pro platform). Plus two wireless models (FIP-425B and FIP-435B) that can connect to smartphones, tablets and EXFO devices that have built-in Wi-Fi support (for example, the EXFO FTB-2 Pro platform with RF option).

This table lists the capabilities of five video microscope models. EXFO FIP-400B. The simplest model FIP-410B has three levels of magnification, shows a video image of the end of the connector in real time and can save photos to the device's memory. The more functional FIP-420B model can additionally perform image auto-centering, assess the quality of the connector for compliance with standards, and has a "pass / fail" color indicator on the body. The most functional model FIP-430B can additionally perform image focusing, eliminating the need for manual manipulations. With the FIP-430B, all work is done fully automatically.

The two wireless models FIP-425B and FIP-435B further increase the possibilities and convenience of operation, as they eliminate the physical connection between the video microscope and the display device. In practice, it is much more convenient to connect to optical equipment, holding a light and compact microscope without any wires. Here detailed characteristics of this series are given with a large number of photographs and application examples.

Design features of the modular measuring platform EXFO FTB-2 Pro

The body of the EXFO FTB-2 Pro platform is made in accordance with the best traditions in ergonomics. The platform is equipped with a very large, high-quality 25.6 cm screen with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels, which greatly simplifies the configuration of tests and the viewing of measurement results. The mass of the platform with battery, but without modules is 3 kg. Dimensions do not depend on the types of installed modules and are equal to: 199 x 333 x 119 mm. The operating temperature range is from 0°С to +50°С.

This photo shows all sides (except the bottom) of the EXFO FTB-2 Pro and EXFO FTB-2 measurement platforms, and also provides a description of the main elements of these instruments.

Specifications of the EXFO FTB-2 Pro measuring platform

This figure shows only the most important features of the EXFO FTB-2 Pro Modular Measurement Platform. You can download a complete list of technical specifications below on this page in the section Documentation in PDF format.

Package of delivery of the modular measuring platform EXFO FTB-2 Pro

The EXFO FTB-2 Pro platform is always used in conjunction with the appropriate measurement modules. The delivery set of modules depends on their models.

Key Options for the EXFO FTB-2 Pro Modular Measurement Platform

The figure above shows the main options for the EXFO FTB-2 Pro platform. Since the platform is always used in conjunction with measurement modules, and any of the compatible modules also contains a significant number of options, to select the correct configuration, we recommend that you read the detailed PDF documentation, which is located below on this page in the section Documentation.