Dirty fiber optic ends are a leading cause of problems in single-mode and multi-mode fiber optic systems. The FI-500 allows technicians to quickly determine if ends are contaminated or damaged, and it bridges the gap between simple analog microscopes and expensive automated video models. Although the FI-500 is nearly half the price of most fully automated inspection microscopes, it provides many of the same features, such as autofocus, a large backlit display, freeze-frame viewing, and a wide variety of tips for inspecting almost any fiber end.
“As fiber is deployed deeper into the data center network, it’s important to have a full suite of troubleshooting tools,” said Stuart Hoiness, Vice President of Networking for Corning Optical Communications. “Cleaning the connector end is often overlooked during troubleshooting. Therefore, this device from an industry leader like Fluke Networks will benefit the data center market and should be part of every fiber installer’s toolkit.”
The FI-500 provides illumination to help the user locate the correct fiber or port in dark or congested panels, along with robust liquid lens technology that enables fast autofocus. On-probe controls allow for one-handed operation, such as a pause button that freezes the image, facilitating inspection in hard-to-reach places or allowing viewing when the image is not steady. This compact probe provides a 610 x 460 micron field of view, with a range of zoom and centering functions. The large display provides an instant view of fiber contamination on through-couplers or patch cords. The rechargeable unit comes standard with adapters to support most UPC connectors. APC adapters are also available.
“For fiber technicians troubleshooting in today’s low-visibility, complex, and compact locations, the FI-500 offers the simplicity and practicality of a handheld inspection viewer, but with advanced features to reduce troubleshooting and inspection time,” said Harvey Trager of Fluke Networks. “We think 9 out of 10 dentists would approve of the FI-500 because it eliminates the need for technicians to hold the flashlight with their teeth.”
The FI-500 sells for about half the price of automated video microscopes and is available from various traditional retailers and online. A range of adapters is included to meet most applications without requiring additional purchases, although specialized adapters are also available.
“The ease of use makes the latest FiberInspector from Fluke Networks a great tool for diagnosing and troubleshooting contamination at the fiber ends,” said Greg Badnerosky, project supervisor at Fisk Technologies, a leading design and installation company specializing in structured cabling systems. “The flashlight feature is particularly useful, as many of the fiber boxes we encounter on construction sites are poorly lit.”.
