What do optical power meters primarily measure?

Optical power meters are versatile tools used in fiber optic communication to assess the performance of optical systems. They primarily measure the amount of optical power in a given signal, which is essential for ensuring that the system operates within specifications for both the transmitter and receiver.

When it comes to measurement capabilities, optical power meters can accurately measure the optical output power of the laser transmitter. This is crucial since knowing the power level being sent out can help diagnose issues in the transmission path. Furthermore, they can also measure the input optical power level at the receiver. This measurement indicates how much signal power is actually arriving at the receiving end, which is vital for determining if any losses have occurred along the fiber or within connectors.

By being able to measure both the transmission and reception power levels, optical power meters provide comprehensive insights into the entire optical link and help in troubleshooting potential issues, optimizing performance, and ensuring overall system reliability. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the dual function of measuring both the optical output power of the laser transmitter and the input optical power level.