Fiber Optics Certification (CFOT & CFOS)
Fiber optic testing includes testing of various components (fiber, connectors, PON splitters, etc.), subsystems (patch cords, cable plants, factory prefab cable assemblies) and systems (complete communications systems.) Components are usually tested in labs during the development phase or factories when manufactured. Many if not most fiber optic techs are more concerned with testing cabling systems as they install them or are troubleshooting problems. In this course, we will spend more time on installation testing with some side trips on component testing for those interested in that aspect of fiber optic testing. Prerequisite: CFOT Certification- What To Expect In Training Programs For Testing Specialist Certification
- FOA-Approved training for Certified Fiber Optic Specialist/Testing certification meets the following requirements:
- Classroom sessions covering all test equipment, methods and standards
- Inspecting and cleaning connectors correctly
- Training in both insertion loss testing and optical time domain reflectometry (OTDR testing)
- Include testing of both singlemode and multimode fibers
- Understanding of measurement errors in tests
- May include advanced test methods (SA, CD, PMD)
- Instructor verification of achievement of advanced skills in testing
- Course includes ~50% lab time
- Typical Field Experience For Direct Testing Specialist Certification Based On Field Experience
- To qualify for the CFOS/T certification, the field testing experience needs to meet the following requirements:
- Microscope inspection of connectors
- VFL testing of hundreds of links
- Insertion loss tests on hundreds of links
- OTDR tests on on hundreds of links (with sample test reports and traces)
- Any other testing (e.g. CD, PMD, SA testing for fiber characterization)
- Include both multimode and singlemode fibers
- Manufacturer's training on testing will be considered as partial experience to qualify for the certification.
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