Testing SFP modules goes beyond visual inspections. There are a number of types of specialized fiber optic testers that can measure key metrics including signal strength, error rates, and back up all tests for performance under real network or simulated loads. Properly testing a fiber optic module with the correct diagnostic tools, methods, and properly reading test data was covered in depth in previous sections of. Patch cords or equipment jumpers are used to bridge the network electronic ports to the fiber optic link contained between patch panels (also known as “cross-connects”). Figure 1 below symbolically depicts the fiber optic link over which testing is typically carried out. As the components like fiber, connectors, splices, LED or laser sources, detectors and receivers are being developed, testing confirms their performance specifications and helps. Fiber optic cabling is the high-performance core of today's datacom networks.
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