The ABCs of Fiber Optic Communication

Book excerpt: This unique practical handbook is the only one of its kind to provide the conceptual framework and troubleshooting tactics related to the manufacturing, selection, and installation of modern photonic networks, including optical fiber plants, optical transceivers, test and measurement equipment, and network architecture of SDH, OTN, IP/MPLS, FTTx networks, and PON. This resource includes the latest technological advancements and industry applications while covering the entire fiber ecosystem from installation to troubleshooting. This book presents the use of common tools like LPM (laser source and power meter) to overcome common issues related to optical patching and fiber plants and also discusses the use of specialized tools including the optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) for issues with fiber plants and locating fiber breaks. Readers gain an understanding of the architecture of core TDM, IP, and Optical Access Networks including PON. Specific methodologies are explored for assessing OTN, DWDM, IT/MPLS, Optical Access Networks– PON/GPON or FTTx networks. Key parameters that influence the choice of fiber based on the network and application type are discussed. This book also provides an overview of the current and future developments in optical fibers, interfaces, transceivers and backbone networks.