Choosing the Right Fibre Optic Testing Equipment

Fibre optic networks are the backbone of Australia’s communications infrastructure, from the NBN to enterprise data centres and 5G backhaul. Selecting the right test equipment is essential to ensure your fibre links are installed correctly, meet acceptance standards, and can be efficiently maintained and troubleshooted throughout their service life.

The type of fibre testing equipment you need depends on your role. NBN and Telstra contractors typically require an OTDR (Optical Time Domain Reflectometer) for characterising links and locating faults, along with an optical loss test set for insertion loss certification. Structured cabling installers need Tier 1 and Tier 2 test solutions, including certifiers and OTDRs. For any fibre work, a fibre end-face inspection microscope and cleaning kit are essential to prevent the connector contamination that causes the majority of network faults.

Key Types of Fibre Optic Test Equipment

OTDRs (Optical Time Domain Reflectometers): OTDRs are used to characterise optical links, locate faults, and verify splice and connector loss. VIAVI MTS-2000 and MTS-4000 OTDRs are the benchmark instruments for Australian NBN and telecommunications contractors, providing wavelength options for 1310nm, 1550nm, and 1625nm testing.

Optical Loss Test Sets (OLTS): OLTS measure the end-to-end insertion loss of a fibre link to certify it meets project specifications. Available from Viavi Solutions and Kingfisher International, they can be paired with a fibre inspection probe to combine inspection and loss testing in a single workflow.

Fusion Splicers: Fusion splicing joins optical fibres with low loss and high tensile strength. Sumitomo and Tumtec fusion splicers are available from TMG in single-core and ribbon configurations for both telecommunications and structured cabling applications.

Fibre Inspection Probes: Contamination is the number-one cause of fibre network faults. Fibre end-face inspection probes from Viavi Solutions provide automated PASS/FAIL analysis to IEC standards, ensuring every connector is clean before it is mated.

What to Look For When Choosing Fibre Test Equipment

Consider the wavelengths required for your project — NBN typically requires 1310nm and 1625nm, while Telstra Wideband adds 1550nm. Ensure your OTDR has sufficient dynamic range for the longest link you will test. For structured cabling, a quad-wavelength OTDR covering 850nm, 1300nm, 1310nm and 1550nm is required for multimode and singlemode certification. Look for instruments with automated bidirectional testing capability to save time on large-scale projects.

TMG’s Fibre Testing Expertise

TMG Test Equipment has supplied fibre optic test solutions to Australian telecommunications contractors, NBN delivery partners, integrators, and network operators for over 40 years. We are an authorised distributor for Viavi Solutions — Australia’s leading OTDR brand — as well as Sumitomo, Tumtec, IBC, PH Palden, Optitap Adaptors, and Kingfisher International.

Our team provides expert advice on the right test configuration for your project, whether you need a basic NBN OTDR kit, a full FibreComplete bidirectional test solution, or a fusion splicing setup for ribbon fibre. We offer both sales and flexible rental options, with fast delivery Australia-wide from our Clayton South facility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What wavelengths do I need for NBN OTDR testing?

For nbn FTTC and FTTP projects, OTDR testing is performed at 1310nm and 1625nm. The two-wavelength comparison helps identify macrobend losses in splice closures. If you are also working on Telstra Wideband projects, a tri-wavelength OTDR (1310/1550/1625nm) is recommended to cover both networks.

What is the difference between Tier 1 and Tier 2 fibre testing?

Tier 1 testing measures the end-to-end insertion loss of a cabling link using an optical loss test set (OLTS). Tier 2 testing adds OTDR characterisation to locate and measure individual events such as splices, connectors, and bends. Both tiers are required for full structured cabling certification to ISO/IEC 14763-3 standards.

Why is fibre end-face inspection important?

Contamination on a fibre end-face is the leading cause of high insertion loss and network faults. A contaminated connector can cause signal loss, equipment damage, and costly network downtime. Following the “Inspect Before You Connect” best practice using a fibre inspection probe from Viavi Solutions ensures clean connections every time.

Do you offer OTDR rental for short-term projects?

Yes. TMG offers flexible rental options for VIAVI OTDRs and other fibre test equipment, ideal for short-term NBN, Telstra, or structured cabling projects. All rental units are supplied fully calibrated and ready to use. Contact our team to check availability.