We have to test a 9 micron loose tube outdoor fiber and a 50 micron loose tube outdoor fiber on the spool before installation.

Question: We have to test a 9 micron loose tube outdoor fiber and a 50 micron loose tube outdoor fiber on the spool before installation. We have an FIS mini OTDR. Is there a bare fiber adapter. How would you suggest the testing be done.

Answer: The most efficient method of testing bare fiber with an OTDR is to use a pigtail and mechanical splice. It is never recommended that a bare fiber adapter be placed in the OTDR's test port, as the unpolished fiber end can damage the connection in the port. Connect a pigtail of the correct fiber type and connector to the OTDR or far end of a launch cable. Cleave the opposite end of the pigtail and insert it into a mechanical splice. Cleave the end of your fiber to be tested and insert it into the opposite side of the mechanical splice. By using the "Real Time" function available on most OTDRs you can adjust the position of the fibers in the mechanical splice to get the best throughput. The cable is now ready to be scanned.