Optical time-domain reflectometers (OTDRs) are widely used to characterize elements on a fiber link, such as connectors and splices, because they can measure attenuation (signal loss), link loss reflectance and location for each element. However, many operators question the degree of uncertainty of the link loss measurements obtained by an OTDR as opposed to that of a traditional light source power meter (LSPM). Which test equipment is more accurate? What best practices can be implemented to mitigate the degree of measurement uncertainty in each device?
