Accurate and Scalable Optical Insertion Loss Testing

Overview

Optical Insertion Loss Testing is a fundamental method for measuring signal loss in fiber optic links and ensuring the integrity of network components. It plays a critical role during fiber installation, maintenance, and performance certification. At Fiber Optical Test, our cutting-edge Optical Insertion Loss Testing solutions are designed to meet industry demands for speed, precision, and ease of use. With advanced tools and user-friendly interfaces, we help customers achieve reliable results across both single-mode and multi-mode networks. Headquartered in Grand Chute, WI, Fiber Optical Test has become a trusted B2B leader in fiber optic testing technologies across North America. Through innovation, expert support, and rigorous quality standards, we enable organizations to deliver efficient, high-performance optical networks.

The Following are Our Advanced Offerings

In addition to offering products and systems developed by our own and other partners, we are proud to carry top-tier products and systems from our trusted partners, GAO Tek Inc. and GAO RFID Inc., delivering reliable, high-quality technologies, integration and services you can count on. When appropriate, we have provided links to relevant products and systems of GAO TEK Inc. and GAO RFID Inc.

Core Components

Hardware

Dual-wavelength light sources: Deliver stable optical output at key testing wavelengths — supported by our Wi-Fi HaLow End Devices, ideal for remote test point control and communication.
Optical power meters: Measure received light intensity for insertion loss calculation — integrated with our Optical & Imaging Sensors, enabling precise photonic detection and enhanced accuracy.
Reference patch cords & adaptors: Maintain consistency and accuracy during test setup — tracked and managed efficiently using UHF RFID Readers, Tags & Accessories for streamlined inventory and deployment.
Handheld test units: All-in-one tools for field-ready insertion loss verification — enhanced with our Device Edge platforms for portable data processing and real-time results in the field.

Software

Auto loss calculator tools: Automatically compute insertion loss based on test parameters
Threshold configuration modules: Set pass/fail levels according to project specs
Results logging & export tools: Simplify compliance and documentation

Cloud Services

Centralized test data repository
Remote test session management
Secure access for multi-location teams

Key Features and Functionalities

Supports bidirectional loss testing
Fast switching between multiple wavelengths (e.g., 850, 1300, 1310, 1550 nm)
Auto calibration and reference saving
Real-time graphical feedback during testing
Built-in memory and USB/cloud data transfer
High dynamic range for long fiber runs

Integrations

Compatible with OTDR, OLTS, and optical return loss test systems
Interfaces with cloud-based asset tracking and field management software
Connects via USB, Bluetooth, and Ethernet for flexibility

Compatibility

Designed for use with SC, LC, ST, FC connectors
Operates across single-mode (OS1, OS2) and multi-mode (OM1–OM4) fibers
Conforms to standard optical loss test sets (OLTS) methodologies
Supports integration with existing test infrastructure

Benefits

Highly Accurate Testing: Ensures low-loss fiber paths for maximum network performance
Simplified Workflow: Reduce setup time with intuitive hardware and software
Field & Lab Ready: Reliable results in any environment
Scalable & Flexible: From single cable certification to large-scale deployments
Streamlined Reporting: Test logs, exports, and reports ready for compliance review

Applications

Insertion loss certification for new fiber installations
Routine testing during preventive maintenance
Performance validation for data center interconnects
Compliance testing for FTTx and enterprise networks
Component-level testing for transceivers, connectors, and splitters

Industries

Telecommunications
Data Centers
Aerospace & Defense
Utilities & Energy
Healthcare IT
Educational and Research Institutions
Government and Public Infrastructure

Relevant U.S. & Canadian Industry Standards

TIA/EIA-568
TIA/EIA-526-14
ANSI/TIA-455-171
IEC 61280-4-1
CSA T530
ISO/IEC 11801

United States – Fiber Installer in Florida

A regional fiber contractor used Fiber Optical Test’s handheld insertion loss testers during a residential FTTH rollout. The intuitive setup and auto-pass/fail indicators helped reduce installation time by 25% while improving customer satisfaction.

United States – Aerospace Systems Integrator in Washington

A defense contractor required precise insertion loss certification for mission-critical optical systems. Our dual-wavelength testers provided repeatable, documented results that passed strict quality control audits.

Canada – Municipal Network Upgrade in British Columbia

A city-led broadband expansion initiative relied on our insertion loss test systems for validating new fiber backbone links. With our cloud-connected platform, teams across multiple sites synchronized testing, accelerating project delivery by two weeks.