AFL FlexScan FS200 OTDR (SM PON)

AFL FlexScan is an innovative OTDR that enables fast, accurate and fully automatic characterisation of modern fiber optic networks, including FTTx networks based on PON technology (1×128 splitters). Thanks to the very compact size of the device and its large touchscreen, the FlexScan is highly portable and extremely easy to use.

Simple operation, fully automatic network analysis
SmartAuto measurement with variable pulse widths
Measurement result as a network diagram (LinkMap®)
Measurement through splitters with ratios up to 1×128
Touchscreen with anti-reflective coating

⇒ Simple operation, fully automatic network analysis
⇒ SmartAuto measurement with variable pulse widths
⇒ Measurement result presented as a network diagram for easier interpretation
⇒ Patented 3-wavelength measurement technology with a filter in a single port
⇒ Measurement through splitters with ratios up to 1×128

⇒ Short dead zones, including the PON dead zone

⇒ Excellent dynamic range at shorter pulse widths

⇒ Touchscreen with anti-reflective coating

⇒ Model with 1650 nm service wavelengths

⇒ Built-in stabilised light source / optical power meter (optional)

AFL’s SmartAuto™ technology, which comes as standard on all FlexScan devices, enables fully automatic measurement of even the most advanced fiber optic links using sophisticated algorithms and variable-pulse-width acquisition. As a result, in a single measurement the OTDR can accurately characterise both closely spaced events (short-pulse measurements) and, for example, pass through high-ratio splitters (long pulses). Presentation of the final result, which is a composite of many measurements, is handled by the LinkMap® algorithm. LinkMap® builds a graphical network diagram in real time during measurement, interpreting event types such as splices/connectors/bends/splitters, and after the measurement it interprets the network parameters against international standards or user rules. The OTDR rates the status of each event as good/bad (green/red), or as a critical fault for events with exceptionally poor parameters (black). Setting up the measurement requires no measurement skills; the test is performed fully automatically, extremely quickly, and the entire analysis is handled by the SmartAuto™ application.

Fig. Network map view in LinkMap® technology

The SmartAuto™ system works perfectly on point-to-point networks as well as on PON networks when measuring splitters with ratios up to 1×128. A SmartAuto™ measurement can also be easily used for reporting, since the result can be saved as a standard .SOR file. The measurement result is presented in a simple graphical form, with easy access to event parameters and to the OTDR trace view – which is extremely important for advanced users and, unlike many competing solutions, allows far greater flexibility.

Fig. Different view modes of the SmartAuto™ software. Device shown in the Polish language version.

As standard, every FlexScan device also includes the optical reflectometer application, which allows measurements in expert mode with fully configurable measurement parameters such as wavelength, test pulse width and measurement time. Thanks to this, the FlexScan is also widely used among professional users who value the device’s portability as well as its speed and stability of operation.
FlexScan devices come in many configurations, differing in the number of measurement wavelengths, hardware options and optical parameters:

FS200-50: 1550 nm version, intended as an affordable maintenance device for point-to-point networks, enabling automatic location of events that generate loss or reflectance, and measurement of these values at 1550 nm.
FS200-60: 1650 nm version, intended as an affordable maintenance device for FTTH/PON networks, enabling automatic location of events that generate loss or reflectance (including splitters), and measurement of these values at 1650 nm; this version has a built-in filter for measuring live links.
FS200-100: 1310/1550 nm version for point-to-point networks, enabling more complete characterisation of event and link parameters, fault and damage location and subsequent documentation at two wavelengths.
FS200-300: 1310/1550 nm version with higher dynamic range, optimised for measuring PON networks with splitters. Thanks to its high dynamic range, this version also allows characterisation of long links.
FS200-304: 1310/1550/1650 nm version with a built-in filter for measuring live links. A high-dynamic-range version optimised for measuring PON networks with splitters. The device also features the ServiceSafe™ option, integrating all 3 wavelengths and the built-in filter into a single port. As a result, the device is safe, resistant to user error and simpler to operate than competing solutions.

Each version of the device comes standard with a visual fault locator (a 650 nm red light source). In addition, each device can be fitted with an optional power meter and light source (matching the OTDR wavelengths) with the WaveID option, allowing measurement across multiple wavelengths simultaneously.
Depending on the configuration, FlexScan devices can be equipped with WiFi and Bluetooth wireless connectivity, through which they can communicate with peripheral devices such as the fully automatic FOCIS Flex inspection probe.

Fig. Connecting the AFL FlexScan OTDR to the FOCIS Flex probe via Bluetooth

FlexScan devices are also available in several additional equipment options:

BASIC kit – FlexScan device, TRM 2.0 software, soft carry bag
PLUS kit – In addition to the BASIC equipment, the kit includes a 150 m FiberRing launch cable and a One-click Cleaner cleaning tool.
PRO kit – In addition to the BASIC equipment, the kit includes a FOCIS Flex video inspection probe with automatic centering, focusing and pass/fail ferrule analysis.

Benefits of the Noyes AFL FlexScan OTDR

Analysing the features of the Noyes AFL FlexScan OTDR, one can see how important intuitiveness is for this type of device. The AFL FlexScan model is not only full process automation and a diagram-based presentation enabling quick interpretation. The OTDR combines a compact construction with extensive technical capabilities, guaranteeing support for even more advanced measurement projects. The simplicity of the measurement settings is also notable.