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Elements and Performance Criteria

  1. Prepare to conduct characterisation tests on existing optical network
  2. Conduct link characterisation tests and analyse existing optical network
  3. Document analysis of optical network with recommendations

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.

Measurements that must be conducted include:

optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) testing from both ends

optical loss test set (OLTS)

optical return loss (ORL)

chromatic dispersion (CD)

polarisation mode dispersion (PMD)

non-linearity (four wave mixing)

optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR)



Knowledge Evidence

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

list and describe legislative and regulatory frameworks that govern optical transmission systems

list and describe work health and safety (WHS) and environmental issues associated with optical transmission systems

describe attenuation characteristics of optical fibres

summarise the chromatic dispersion (CD) test

explain principles of operation of dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM)

discuss dispersion and outline dispersion characteristics of various fibres and devices used for compensation

discuss precautions required to minimise electrostatic discharge

identify features and operating requirements of test equipment including:

a hand-held optical power meter

an optical spectrum analyser

a transmission test set

identify functions of an optical add-drop multiplexer (OADM) and reconfigurable optical add-drop multiplexer (ROADM)

explain gain equalisation

describe the insertion loss test

summarise the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) wavelength grid for DWDM

discuss measurement of dispersion

summarise methods to reduce dispersion

discuss optical amplifier operation

identify optical fibre connector types and characteristics

identify optical fibre types and characteristics

summarise the optical return loss (ORL) test

outline the optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) test

discuss the optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) test

clarify path protection and protection switching

explain performance qualification of 40 Gbit/s and 100 Gbit/s transceivers

summarise the polarisation mode dispersion (PMD) test

outline protocols used on optical DWDM systems

explain reflectance in fibre optic systems

discuss ring topologies and linear network topologies

explain specific work health and safety (WHS) requirements and environmental constraints that impact safe inspection of optical connectors and safe measurement of optical power from laser transmission systems.