EXFO ConnectorMax MPO Link Test Solution - Polarity, Continuity & Connector Testing

Multifiber testing reinvented

EXFO turns its inspection tool into an automated solution performing the three critical tests needed to validate MPO links. It’s an all-in-one solution delivering an optimal combination of fit, cost and reporting capabilities.

Test now or put your network at risk

Multifiber push-on (MPO) connectors are increasingly popular because they provide many advantages to high-speed network operators, owners and installation companies. They are used to connect the fastest links that deliver the most sensitive of services and data to customers, enable high-speed interconnects and create redundancy.

Increasingly, telcos are also reconfiguring their central offices into data centres (CORDs) and deploying MPO cables with 12, but more and more, 24 fibres. When not properly tested, multifiber links can put the entire health of a network at risk. Without proper validation, CORD operators may end up having to pull the plug on critical lines at the same time for troubleshooting.

Traditional methods fall short

Traditional multifiber testing solutions often fall short on design or price, can’t perform all three critical tests or don’t offer analysis and reporting capabilities. Customers are left choosing between solutions that are either too much for what they really need (and too expensive) or sorely lacking in features and fit. What's more, they often have to buy different units to get the job done.

To avoid downtime or unnecessary OPEX and CAPEX, techs need simple, easy-to-use tools—and a clear, reliable method—to get essential testing required done quickly and accurately.

One solution, three essential MPO tests

The ConnectorMax MPO Link Test Solution takes the three essential tests needed to validate MPO links—polarity, continuity and connector cleanliness—and combines them into one automated solution. It pairs a light source at one end of the cable with a fiber inspection probe for analysis at the other end—a first in the industry. The solution brings together the ConnectorMax Multifiber Source with the ConnectorMax Fiber Inspection Probe to deliver a quick and easy-to-use solution that validates the polarity type, continuity and connector cleanliness of MPO fiber optic links. It provides a fit for purpose solution that helps our customers test and turn up networks right the first time—making deployments faster, more efficient and cost effective.

As many customers already own an EXFO probe, this solution is highly economical. Not only do field technicians already benefit from the best MPO inspection tool on the market that eradicates the number one cause of network failures (contaminated connectors), it now enables them to check polarity and continuity, in just about the same time as inspection alone.

Results are loaded in the ConnectorMax Analysis Software, an app for mobile devices providing clear pass/fail status and reporting functions, making it easy for technicians to perform and view the results of all three of these tests on the spot.

Validate polarity, continuity and connector cleanliness

Polarity-type validation

During installation, MPO connectors must be properly aligned and mated—not as simple as it sounds. Ensuring accurate polarity for MPO fiber array cables is a big deal and can be complicated to manage due to multiple polarity schemes available for these connectors and polarity flipping during connecting and installation. Polarity validation is proving especially critical with the new MPO connectors that enable polarity reconfiguration in the field. Validating the polarity type would ensure that the signal path is the expected one and that the proper Tx will talk to the right Rx.

Continuity confirmation

Confirming the continuity of a link ensures that there is no break and that light travels properly all the way to the end of the link under test. It’s a quick continuity test for cables that, when done at time of installation, can save a lot of time in potential troubleshooting later.

Connector inspection

With the contaminated connectors being the number one cause of network failure, connector inspection is a priority. Bad connectors are the main cause of loss for cables and short links up to 5 km and the impact is even greater for MPO links where a single dirty or damaged connector can affect as many as 12 or 24 fibres.

Solution benefits

 Reduce OPEX

• Save time: get a clear pass/fail diagnosis of the problem, whether it is polarity, continuity or connector cleanliness, using one test
• Save time: get a complete report with a single click

 Reduce CAPEX

• Stop wasting expensive MPO patch cords that are in perfect condition
• Avoid spending money on overkill products that provide more information than required for the task
• Invest in a single solution to perform all tests—no need for different testers to test different types of MPO cables

 Accelerate and increase revenue

With MPO links containing multiple fibres, turning down a link for troubleshooting can effect multiple clients and create customer churn. Using EXFO’s ConnectorMax solution will ensure links are valid and network downtime minimised.

Notes:

^{1 MTP is a registered trademark of US Conec Ltd.
2 The ConnectorMax MPO Link Test Solution is patent pending.}