Which instruments are necessary to test a terminated fiber optic cable or patchcord?

To effectively test a terminated fiber optic cable or patchcord, the use of a fiber optic power meter and light source is essential. The power meter is used to measure the amount of optical power being transmitted through the cable, while the light source generates a specific wavelength of light to ensure that the system is functioning properly and to facilitate accurate measurements of loss within the fiber optic link.

By utilizing both these instruments, technicians can perform tests to determine the loss characteristics of the fiber link, ensuring it meets the required specifications for performance. This combination also allows technicians to troubleshoot any issues related to loss or signal degradation in the cable, providing a comprehensive solution for assessing fiber optic connections.

Other options, such as an optical loss test set, may include similar functionalities but are typically more specialized and might not be as straightforward for basic testing needs. A signal analyzer is generally used for testing and analyzing data signals, which may not be directly applicable for loss testing in fiber optics. Bandwidth testers measure the capacity of a network for transmitting data but are not designed specifically for the parameters related to the optical performance of fiber cables. Thus, the combination of a power meter and light source is the preferred choice for testing fiber optic cables effectively.