Whether it's fiber optic patch cords used to connect between fiber optic patch panels and switches in a data center, or copper patch cords used in local area networks to connect end devices to work area outlets, patch cords are integral to the network An integral part of the network, and the jumper is often the most vulnerable link in the network. It is more susceptible to damage than any other part.
Since the device jumpers are the most vulnerable parts, channel testing provides more room. This means that the channel test can pass even if the permanent link fails if high-quality equipment patch cords are used. Given the potential for equipment patch cords and equipment to move around, it is important to know the fixed part of the channel in advance.
Equipment patch cords are not included in the front-end permanent link test, but that doesn't mean they should be ignored. Once the fixed part of the network is installed and tested, subsequent channel testing can identify problems with equipment patch cords, especially if your customers are having problems with damaged or substandard equipment patch cords.
Copper jumper quality test
To understand the quality of equipment patch cords, the Communications Cable Association completed large-scale electrical performance testing of Category 6 copper patch cords, testing nearly 500 samples, including 379 patch cords from lesser-known manufacturers and 120 from well-known North American Manufacturer's jumper. Of the 379 marine patch cords, 322 did not meet the electrical performance parameters specified in the TIA 568-C.2 standard, 78% did not meet 3dB or more, and 45% did not meet 6dB or more. These jumpers, once included in the channel, can cause serious network problems. All patch cords from recognized manufacturers in North America have a 0% failure rate.
Fiber Patch Cord Quality Test
FOCC engineers tested universal fiber optic patch cords purchased from online retailers from 4 domestic and overseas universal assembly plants, as well as patch cords from 5 recognized brands: 36 fiber optic patch cords from 9 different suppliers were tested using two specifications Random duplex LC multimode patch cord samples were tested for insertion loss and return loss. ISO/IEC and TIA industry standard strict internal specifications with 0.25dB insertion loss and 30dB return loss. Only one generic supplier passed all specifications. In addition, all generic samples failed at least two of the three key parameters of end face geometry and failed all four parameters of mechanical reliability (ie, cable pull, bend, twist, and retention) in performance testing.
FOCC engineers also ran a second round of testing, but looked at the new maximum output connectors for higher speed 40 and 100 Gig applications. Again, there is only one common component that passes industry and internal specifications for insertion loss and return loss.
What do these data tell us?
Buyers beware! The channel through which the device jumper is purchased can have a significant impact on performance. If the inexpensive generic option causes network downtime and transmission problems, it will cost more money to fix the problem in the long run.
Do-it-yourself patch cords and fiber optic patch cords
In addition to performing a channel test after the unit is patched in place to identify issues with patch cords and patch cords, it is also good practice to test patch cords and patch cords individually and to test patch cord sampling, especially if you are from a different vendor jumper cords from other suppliers at the wiring factory.
Fluke Networks' DSX series like the DSX2-5000 CH Patch Cord Test Adapter can be used to test Category 5e, 6 and 6A copper patch cords. These adapters include RJ45 plug terminations and are patch cord certified according to TIA-568-C.2 and IEC 61935-2 standards.
When it comes to fiber patch cords, testing is like testing any fiber optic cable with an Optical Loss Tester (OLTS) like Fluke Networks' CFP Fiber Tester. Simply set up the reference using the single jumper reference method and use the adapter to connect the jumper to the test reference lead. When connecting the other end of the jumper to the remote unit, only test the connection loss between the reference wire and the jumper. Simply reverse the jumper wire to test the connector on the other end.
It is also good to use a microscope or inspection tester such as the Fluke FI-7000 InspectorPro designed for end-face inspection for contamination and cleanliness of fiber patch cord end faces.
