Rayleigh backscattering is used to calculate the level of attenuation in the fiber as a function of distance (expressed in dB/km), which is shown by a straight slope in an OTDR trace. It can verify splice loss, measure length and find faults. Later, comparisons can be made. This method uses a mathematical (least squares) analysis to fit a straight line to the fiber's slope to calculate the fiber's attenuation. Since noise in the fiber trace is random, averaging the data reduces the effect of the noise and makes for a more accurate measurement. No part of this book may be reproduced or utilized in any form or means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without pe n optical fiber to a distant receiver. The electrical signal is.
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