All fiber optic power meters

When measuring Absolute Power in dBm or milliwatt, you observe a small measurement error. This could be observed in a laboratory or manufacturing environment.

Possible Cause 1: Incorrect FOA type is being used.

Proposed Solution:

• FOA = Fiber Optic Adapter and is the part screwed on to the power meter detector receptacle.

• FOA-3XX series should be used in lab power meters, and FOA-XX should be used on field power meters.
• PX1 has a different type of adapter called FOAS.

Possible Cause 2: The light source type may be inappropriate.

Proposed Solution:

• EXFO power meters are calibrated with narrow band laser sources.
• When using other source types ( LED, Fabry Perot, other) small variations are normal.

Possible Cause 3:The wavelength is not selected correctly.

Proposed Solution:

• Sometimes light sources have nominal wavelength, but the true wavelength is different.
• For accurate measurements, it is best to measure the wavelength of the source, and set the power meter as close as possible to the same wavelength.

Possible Cause 4: There is dirt or contamination in the optical path.

Proposed Solution:

• Inspecting and cleaning the FOA, the fiber end-face, and the detector window will help eliminate this possible source of error.

Possible Cause 5: The warm up period is not completed.

Proposed Solution:

• To achieve full performance, some lab power meters require a warm-up and/or temperature stabilization period.

Possible Cause 6: A Calibration or Repair may be required.

Proposed Solution:

• If on inspection, you observe that the detector window is scratched or otherwise damaged, a repair is required. On most power meters this part can be replaced. Please request an RMA for repair.
• Your power meter may require a calibration. Please request an RMA for calibration.