EXFO MaxTester 700D series of handheld optical time domain reflectometers

Brief description of the series

The series of compact optical reflectometers MaxTester 700D from the Canadian company EXFO is positioned as the main solution for any reflectometric measurements. The series includes models with a dynamic range from 32 to 42 dB for any single-mode, multi-mode and mixed optical networks. There are models for measurements on both passive and active fiber.

All EXFO MaxTester 700D series reflectometers feature high measurement accuracy, stable operation in harsh conditions and various professional functions that allow you to do your work faster and better. For detailed differences between the series models, see the interactive table. A full description of all the characteristics can be downloaded below on this page in the Documentation section.

All models of the series

The EXFO MaxTester 700D series consists of twelve models, which are presented in this interactive table. To see all the characteristics of certain models, add them to the comparison.

Optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) mode

This is the primary mode of operation for the EXFO MaxTester 700D series OTDRs. Depending on the specific model, measurements are taken at certain wavelengths. For example, single-mode and multimode fiber testing is supported by the MAX-720D-Q1-QUAD model, while active fiber testing is supported by the MAX-715D-SM8, MAX-720D-SM8, MAX-730D-SM7, MAX-730D-SM8 and MAX-735D-SM8 models.

All models in the series have a test pulse duration that can be set in the range from 3 ns to 20 µs. Small pulses provide a minimum dead zone and are well suited for measuring short fibers, while large pulses are intended for long fiber optic trunk lines where the reflectometer requires maximum dynamic range.

Immediately after the measurement, EXFO MaxTester 700D reflectometers automatically analyze the collected data and generate an event table. This table indicates the distance, loss and reflection for each discontinuity found in the fiber: connectors, splices, splitters, macrobends and other types.

Optical link mapping (iOLM) mode

The presentation of traces as sequentially connected blocks (linear view) is a standard feature of the EXFO MaxTester 700D series of reflectometers. But the iOLM function, which is available as an additional option, goes beyond the linear view mode. iOLM stands for intelligent Optical Link Mapper. When operating in iOLM mode, the OTDR takes multiple measurements using different test pulse values and combines all the resulting traces into one detailed diagram.

Using different test pulse values allows you to simultaneously obtain a small dead zone for high-quality analysis of the fiber start and a large dynamic range, which is necessary for measuring the far end of a long fiber. When working in the iOLM mode, in addition to the result in the form of a diagram, the measured reflectograms are also saved in the device's memory, which is convenient for compiling additional reports. An example of the iOLM option in action is shown in this screenshot, and a detailed description of this mode is available below on this page in the Documentation section.

Connector inspection

Checking the cleanliness and quality of connectors is a mandatory requirement when operating optical networks. EXFO MaxTester 700D series reflectometers have the ability to directly connect EXFO FIP-400B optical video microscopes, which can automatically focus, center the image and check the connector for dirt and defects. The reflectometer is used as a means of displaying, processing and storing the resulting photographs.

Case design

The EXFO MaxTester 700D series models are housed in a compact case weighing only 1.5 kg, optimized for operation both indoors and outdoors at temperatures from -10°С to +50°С. Control is via a touch screen, and the built-in battery lasts for 12 hours of autonomous operation.

The EXFO MaxTester 700D series has an input connector made as a small replaceable module. This allows it to be easily replaced in case of damage or severe wear. In this case, there is no need to send the reflectometer to a service center. The replaceable module comes in three types: GP-3207 (single-mode, APC angle polishing), GP-3208 (single-mode, UPC straight polishing) and GP-3246 (multi-mode, UPC straight polishing).