Optical Backscatter Reflectometry as a Measurement Tool for Fiber-Optics in Avionics and Aerospace Applications

We present optical backscatter reflectometry, a commercially available method for testing and troubleshooting of short haul fiber optic links. Short-length optical communications networks like those in avionics and aerospace applications require frequent heath assessment. Precise recognition and localization of faults, accurate measurement of loss though the link are critical to maintaining signal integrity. The optical backscatter reflectometry method makes it possible to detect and localize bends, breaks, bad splices, and poor connections with up to 10 micron spatial resolution with no dead zone. Links can be measured with 1 mm resolution over up to 2000 m of fiber length. In addition to fault location and loss measurement, this measurement technique makes possible distributed temperature and strain measurements along standard optical fiber. We will provide measurement examples demonstrating capabilities not currently supported by conventional measurement tools. These examples will include high resolution fault location and identification as well as distributed sensing using standard optical fiber.