What are mainframe optical time domain reflectometers (OTDR) primarily used for?

Mainframe optical time domain reflectometers (OTDR) are primarily used in the fiber manufacturing industry to characterize and analyze fiber optic cables. They perform vital functions, such as measuring the length of the fiber, identifying any faults, assessing loss along the cable, and measuring splice loss. This is critical in ensuring that the fibers meet industry standards before they are deployed in telecommunications networks.

The focus on the fiber manufacturing industry is due to the need for precision in the production of fiber optics. These measurements allow manufacturers to guarantee the quality and reliability of the fibers produced, making OTDR an essential tool in this sector.

The other contexts, such as residential internet installations, telecommunications repairs, or underwater cable assessments, might utilize OTDR technology but are not the primary focus of its use. In those scenarios, while OTDRs can help troubleshoot or verify installations, the core application remains centered on the production and analysis aspects within the fiber manufacturing industry.