Fiber Optic Testing Tools
Cleerline offers two different testing kits, the SSF-TKITP-400 Pro Testing Kit and the SSF-TKITE-100 Basic Testing kit. Each of these kits can be used to measure insertion loss on installed links, providing loss measurements in decibels. (For more information of the testing process, visit our previous article.) Both kits include an optical power meter alongside at least one optical light source.
How do these two kits compare? Each kit contains the basic tools you need for a successful test on single mode or multimode fiber. However, there are a few key differences.
Download Feature Comparison Chart
Features
| Feature | SSF-TKITE-100 | SSF-TKITP-400 |
|---|---|---|
| Optical Light Source | ✔ | ✔ |
| Optical Power Meter | ✔ | ✔ |
| Certification to TIA-568-C Standards | ✔ | |
| General Network Qualification | ✔ | ✔ |
| Single Mode and Multimode Fiber Testing | ✔ | ✔ |
| Tests on Four Wavelengths: 850, 1300, 1310, 1550 nm | ✔ | ✔ |
| Auto Wavelength Identification | ✔ | |
| SC and LC Testing | ✔ | ✔ |
| Reference Cable Pack | ✔ | ✔ |
| LCD Screen with Ambient Light Detection and Backlight Control | ✔ | |
| Reference Power Set-Up | ✔ | ✔ |
| Auto Shut-off Function | ✔ | ✔ |
| Up to 200 Hour Battery Life | ✔ | |
| Storage of 1000 Test Records | ✔ | |
| PC Software and USB Cable | ✔ | |
| Data Download in CSV Format | ✔ | |
| Hard Plastic Carrying Case | ✔ | ✔ |
SSF-TKITP-400 Pro Testing Kit
The SSF-TKITP-400 Pro Testing Kit is intended for network certification to TIA-568-C standards. This kit allows testing of installed cables, connectors, splices and links. The included light source and power meter are compatible with both multimode and single mode fibers. This highly precise kit includes data storage for up to 1000 test records, making it an excellent solution for larger installations.
In addition, the SSF-TKITP-400 offers auto wavelength identification. Included PC software allows data download as a CSV (not compatible with macOS). The SSF-TKITP-400 also includes the necessary reference cables and feedthrough adapters for both single mode and multimode testing with SC or LC connectors.
We recommend the SSF-TKITP-400 for installations that require certification.
Instructional Videos
SSF-TKITE-100 Basic Testing Kit
The SSF-TKITE-100 allows general network qualification and quick troubleshooting. It is not intended for network certification. Use this kit for basic readings on installed cables or to find problems.
Note that the SSF-TKITE-100 kit includes two light sources: one compatible with single mode fiber only, and one compatible with multimode fiber only. When testing, always select the light source matching the type of fiber under test.
Like the SSF-TKITP-400, the SSF-TKITE-100 kit includes the reference cables and feedthrough adapters necessary for SC and LC testing with single mode or multimode fibers.
Instructional Videos
Additional Tools not Included in Testing Kits
As shown in the instructional videos, we highly recommend utilizing a one-click type cleaner when testing. Having cleaning supplies on hand will help avoid testing errors caused by dust or contaminate connectors.
Additionally, if testing high volumes of fiber and connectors, fiber inspection tools can be a major asset. Fiber inspection microscopes help you get eyes on any issues with connector ends before starting to test.
Learn more about available inspection and verification tools in our Choosing Fiber Optic Tools article.