fibre optics special report
Connector types
When it comes to connectors, the first thing you need to know is there are two different ways to join fibre: Angled Physical Contact (APC) or Ultra Physical Contact (UPC). These methods are always clearly indicated as part of the connector part number. The rule of thumb is to check the specifications on the product you are buying. Typically, in broadcast products, only UPC is used. APC provides a more expensive, lower-loss connection when super- long distances are required outside the plant. (There is no need for APC inside the plant).
Like choosing the fibre type itself, selecting the connector type is also pretty straightforward: most broadcasters use SC- or LC-type connectors. Both types are snap-in and locking. Try to standardise on one type as much as possible; when required, use patch cords with different ends to convert to a different connector type. • Point 2: Standardise on either SC- or LC-type connectors using UPC connections. Use patch cords to adapt your standardised connector to match various equipment types.
Testing tools
Now that you’ve chosen your fibre type and your connectors, you’re ready to initiate your install. However, don’t proceed without having some test equipment on-hand. You don’t need much to get started: the minimum you should have are an optical power meter and a visible light source. A visible light source is very helpful for basic physical layer troubleshooting, but be sure to choose one that is bright enough to be visible in daylight. Having an optical time domain reflectometer is also useful, as it allows you to quickly locate the physical position of any cable faults that may have occurred during installation or handling. For broadcasters, it can be beneficial to choose fibre products from a manufacturer that also offers optical test equipment tailored specifically for broadcast use.
Also, when ordering test equipment, make sure that the connectors are removable and that you select high-quality adaptors that match your system requirements. • Point 3: Don’t be in the dark. Be sure to purchase some simple handheld test equipment to trace out and test fibre runs.
Cleaning considerations
Most in-plant operations have lots of link budget, so there’s no need to fuss too much about connector cleaning. And with fibre, there’s no reason to worry as to whether or not the connectors are gold plated - they don’t corrode. Cables come with protective end caps to keep them polished and clean. In most broadcast applications, simply removing the caps and making the connection is all you need to do.
However, should some cleaning ever be required, don’t blow on the connectors or try to wipe them clean with your finger or shirt. There are several inexpensive cleaning kits available. • Point 4: Invest in a cleaning kit.
Extra benefits
Future-proofing your facility, increasing operational flexibility and eliminating traditional distance limitations - as if these benefits weren’t enough, fibre also offers a number of hidden benefits, including: • Greener operations: Passive splitters provide both monitoring and distribution points without using power.
• Simplified digital systems timing: Fibre operates at light speeds. Electrical and optical conversions take less than 10 ns, so there’s no need to calculate cable runs.
• Improved house sync: With fibre, the distribution of colour black within your plant - or even to external
Figure 1: The multi- room facility fibre interconnect
drawing, showing how to use fibre optic technology competently.
buildings - is simple. There are no delay issues. Simply use analogue video-to-fibre converters to distribute black and tone on fibre.
Fibre is not only easy to use and implement, but also offers an abundance of hidden benefits.
• No more cable tracing nightmares: Because fibre passes visible light, simply use a handheld visible light source, and find your lost cable in seconds. Passing visible light into a fibre can also help you find faults. • Less noise: Fibre is immune to interference, so there is no need to fight ground loops and various electromagnetic or RF noise. • Simplified control and monitoring: Many interfaces are now available to extend Ethernet, intercoms, RS-422, etc., networks over fibre with simple I/O modules. Taking advantage of these greatly unifies your operations. • Point 5: Take advantage of the many benefits of fibre, and you’ll be well on your way to making the most out of your fibre optic facility. See the multi- room facility fibre interconnect drawing (Figure 1) to learn how to use fibre optic technology competently.
Summary
You are now likely asking yourself why you have not embraced fibre before, right? Fibre is not only easy to use and implement, but also offers an abundance of hidden benefits. So, don’t wait until you are suddenly forced into implementing a stronger 1.5 or 3 Gb/s plant. Take these five simple points, and start using fibre today - your boss will be impressed!
www.ibeweb.com l march/april 2010 l ibe l 43
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