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Elements and Performance Criteria

  1. Prepare to use advanced optical measuring instruments
  2. Evaluate optical performance and link budget using advanced optical test equipment
  3. Document measurement results

Range Statement

This field allows for different work environments and conditions that may affect performance. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) should be included.

Test equipment that must be used includes:

optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR)

optical spectrum analyser (OSA)

optical return loss (ORL)

Measurements that must be performed include:

optical power level

insertion loss of optical network

end-to-end fibre loss (bi-directional)



Knowledge Evidence

To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:

describe an optical system and its main components

identify hazards and risks for health and safety associated with optical systems

identify and describe common tests, measurements and testing plans used for optical systems

identify common wavelengths involved with optical systems

list and describe use of tools and test equipment for optical systems

explain consequences of mating contaminated optical connectors

perform calculations using decibels, dBm

discuss downstream and upstream signals

outline dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) metro and long haul system architecture

summarise measurement of DWDM signals

explain measurement of gain and gain flatness of optical amplifier

discuss measurement of laser spectral stability, drift and unexpected variation in spectral transmission characteristics

explain non-linear effects, four-wave mixing

identify optical connector types

outline optical signal to noise ratio (OSNR)

summarise optical spectrum limits, wavelengths used in various applications and International Telecommunications Union (ITU) grid

identify optical transmitters and receivers

describe optical return loss (ORL)

discuss OTDR dead zones, dynamic range and launch cable reflectance

outline safe handling procedures with optical fibres

describe transmission system line rates:

optical ethernet

optical transport network (OTN)

synchronous digital hierarchy (SDH)

explain wavelength division multiplexing (WDM), coarse wavelength division multiplexing (CWDM) and DWDM principles and optical multiplexers

identify and explain influence of legislation, regulations, standards and codes of practice relevant to advanced optical work.