FIGURE 8: Testing an OSP spool of optical fiber. It is always recommended to test cables after delivery and compare
the OTDR test results to the affixed test document on the spool.
18 I ICT TODAY
The cabling installers should also conduct the third stage pre-functional
testing (PFT) of raw (unterminated) fiber spools. This requires field testing by
fusion splicing selected optical fibers from each spool and conducting optical
time domain reflectometer (OTDR) tests before installation begins. The PFT
test results are compared to the test documentation removed from the spools
and should be nearly the same (Figure 8). Any abnormalities need to be
immediately addressed before beginning the installation.
Preterminated fibers are usually shorter in length and packaged securely.
It is still a good practice to organize and store the manufacturer’s hard copy
test documentation. Like the spools, when testing a link that fails, it can
be compared to the manufacturer’s test documentation. This can help to
determine whether the cable was damaged during field manufacturing
or installation.
Continual commissioning includes site visits to perform QA visual
inspections. This is to ensure installation best practices are being followed.
Cable routing, securing, and dressing should have a professional and
consistent clean look that is maintained throughout the entire installation
process. The ICT consultant must be able to guarantee that the installation is
following the SOW/BOM and drawings, as well as ensuring that the labeling
and testing procedures are in full compliance.
In pre-design,
consider whether
the cabling
infrastructure concept
was designed for
the long-term.
Will it allow for the
future growth &
high demands
of IoT?