OptoTest OP940-SW - User Manual

Questions and Answers

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Alexandra PetersonAug 5, 2025
Why are my OptoTest Measuring Instruments giving unstable measurements?
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  Teresa CarrAug 5, 2025
  Unstable measurements in OptoTest Measuring Instruments can stem from several factors: * **Dirt and damage on endfaces:** Inspect and clean all endfaces, including SAVer cables and the front panel connector. Repolish if necessary. * **Dirt and damage on detectors:** Check detectors and adapters for dirt or damage. Clean as needed and replace damaged adapters. If a detector is damaged, contact OptoTest for repair or replacement. * **Dwell times:** Increase the IL and RL Dwell times in the software or Settings screen to allow detectors more time to stabilize. * **Damaged bulkheads and detector adapters:** If the front panel bulkhead is damaged, contact OptoTest for a replacement or guidance. * **Hybrid bulkheads:** not mentioned.
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Mitchell FergusonAug 12, 2025
What to do if my OptoTest Measuring Instruments unit shows low output power?
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  James ChenAug 12, 2025
  Low output power in OptoTest Measuring Instruments can be caused by: * **Dirt and damage:** Inspect and clean all endfaces, including SAVer cables and the front panel connector on the instrument. Repolish any dirty or damaged connectors. * **Misaligned adapters:** Disconnect and reconnect the FC connector, ensuring proper key alignment. Be aware that hybrid bulkheads, especially SC-LC, can have alignment issues. * **Mismatched fiber size:** Using a 50/125µm fiber instead of 62.5/125µm can cause a 3-5dB power drop. Launching multimode light into a single mode cable can result in a 20dB power drop.
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johnathangonzalezAug 19, 2025
Why does Return Loss on OptoTest Measuring Instruments connectors take time to stabilize?
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  Katherine TaylorAug 20, 2025
  The stabilization time for Return Loss (RL) on connectors in OptoTest Measuring Instruments can be attributed to: * **Connector settling time:** Certain push-in connectors, like SC and E-2000, may require time for the ferrules to align properly due to spring force relaxation. This is more common with new connectors and decreases with use. * **Dirt and damage:** Inspect and clean all endfaces, including SAVer cables and the front panel connector on the instrument. Repolish any dirty or damaged connectors. * **Dwell times:** Increasing the IL and RL Dwell times in software or on the Settings screen of the unit can improve stability by allowing the detectors more time to settle.
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Ralph ParkerAug 27, 2025
What to do if OptoTest Measuring Instruments Return Loss measures 80.1dB (SM) or 58.1dB (MM)?
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  margaret09Aug 27, 2025
  If your OptoTest Measuring Instruments Return Loss measures 80.1dB (SM) or 58.1dB (MM), consider the following: * **Large reflections:** Clean the interfaces. If the issue persists, increase the length of the reference cable by 3-5 meters. A damaged front panel connector may need repolishing or replacement. * **Dirt and damage:** Inspect all endfaces, including any SAVer cables and the front panel connector on the instrument. Clean or repolish any dirty or damaged connectors. * **Connector limitations:** In Scan mode, a high-quality polish on the DUT that exceeds the linearized range of the return loss meter may cause this issue.

OptoTest OP940-SW Specifications

General

Wavelength Accuracy	±1 nm
Resolution	0.001 dB
Connector Type	FC/APC
Display	LCD
Power Supply	100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz
Output Connector	FC/APC
Source Type	Tunable Laser Source
Power Range	+10 to -80 dBm