JDS Uniphase RM3550-1FA7 1550 nm Single-Mode Backreflection, Insertion Loss and Optical Power Meter

JDS Uniphase RM3550-1FA7 1550 nm Single-Mode Backreflection Meter

The JDS Uniphase RM3550-1FA7 is a portable optical test instrument designed for directly measuring backreflection, insertion loss, and optical power in single-mode fiber optic connectors, patch cords, passive components, and complete optical systems. This configuration incorporates a nominal 1550 nm source, 9/125 µm single-mode fiber, and an FC/APC ultra-low-backreflection output connector.

The RM3550-1FA7 combines three important fiber optic measurements in one compact instrument. It can evaluate optical reflections from connectors and components, measure the loss introduced by an optical path, and display received optical power. This integrated functionality makes the meter suitable for connector manufacturing, patch cord qualification, incoming inspection, installation verification, laboratory evaluation, and production quality assurance.

A single optical output simplifies the test arrangement and makes the instrument particularly useful for fiber optic jumper manufacturers. Compatible hybrid jumpers can adapt the FC/APC output to other connector interfaces without replacing the meter’s low-reflection source connection. When the device under test is connected and its far end is terminated correctly, the meter displays the measured backreflection directly.

Features and Benefits of the JDS Uniphase RM3550-1FA7

• Three optical measurement functions: Measures backreflection, insertion loss, and optical power with one portable instrument.
• Integrated 1550 nm source: Supports compatible single-mode fiber optic components and systems operating in the 1550 nm telecommunications region.
• 9/125 µm single-mode configuration: Designed for compatible single-mode patch cords, connectors, components, and optical systems.
• FC/APC output connector: Uses an ultra-low-backreflection interface to support accurate reflection measurements.
• Wide backreflection range: Measures supported single-mode backreflection levels from 0 dB to -75 dB.
• Wide optical power range: Measures optical power from 0 dBm to -80 dBm.
• Direct-reading operation: Displays backreflection, insertion loss, or optical power on the integrated 16-character LCD.
• Extraneous-reflection compensation: Compensates for unwanted reflections contributed by the reference path and test setup.
• User calibration: Allows measurement performance to be checked using suitable calibrated reference jumpers.
• Portable battery operation: An internal rechargeable battery supports testing away from a fixed AC power source.
• RS-232 interface: Supports measurement logging to a compatible computer or serial printer.
• Optional GPIB support: Compatible configurations can be integrated into automated test systems using an optional GPIB interface.
• Foot-pedal compatibility: Supports convenient measurement logging during repetitive connector and patch cord testing.
• Compact construction: Combines benchtop measurement capability with practical portability for production and field applications.

Backreflection Measurement

Backreflection is the portion of optical power reflected toward the source by a connector, splice, component, fiber end, or other discontinuity. Excessive reflection can affect the performance of lasers, optical amplifiers, transmitters, and other reflection-sensitive equipment.

The RM3550-1FA7 provides direct backreflection measurements over a documented range from 0 dB to -75 dB for the applicable 9/125 µm single-mode configuration. The instrument’s stable optical design supports measurements of both highly reflective interfaces and low-reflection fiber optic components.

To perform a backreflection measurement, a suitable FC/APC reference or hybrid jumper is connected to the meter. The device under test is attached to the opposite end, and the remote end of the device is terminated using an effective low-reflection method. The meter then displays the measured backreflection.

Accurate low-reflection measurements depend on connector cleanliness, reference-jumper quality, termination effectiveness, fiber stability, and control of unwanted reflections throughout the optical path.

Backreflection Accuracy

Relative backreflection accuracy is specified at ±0.4 dB for the applicable single-mode configuration. Additional uncertainty applies as the measurement approaches the lower end of the instrument’s range.

Backreflection Reading	Additional Typical Uncertainty
-60 dB to -67 dB	±0.4 dB
-67 dB to -72 dB	±0.8 dB
-72 dB to -75 dB	±1.5 dB

 

Measurement capability at very low reflection levels is influenced by the effectiveness of the far-end termination and the residual reflections produced by the jumper, adapters, connectors, and other components in the setup.

Insertion Loss Measurement

The JDS Uniphase RM3550-1FA7 measures the optical attenuation introduced by connectors, patch cords, cable assemblies, adapters, splices, passive components, and installed fiber paths.

A reference reading is established before the device under test is inserted into the optical path. The change between the reference level and the measured level represents the insertion loss of the connected device or assembly.

Relative power accuracy is specified at ±0.05 dB for measurements involving less than 5 dB of loss. For measurements involving more than 5 dB of loss, relative accuracy is specified at ±0.15 dB.

The reference jumper and optical connections should remain clean and mechanically stable throughout the test sequence. A new reference should be established whenever a reference connection is moved, disconnected, cleaned, replaced, or otherwise disturbed.

Optical Power Measurement

The RM3550-1FA7 incorporates a 2 mm InGaAs detector for measuring optical power. The documented single-mode power range extends from 0 dBm to -80 dBm.

Typical absolute power accuracy is ±0.25 dB at -10 dBm when the required dark measurement has been performed. An additional ±0.1 dB should be considered for readings between -70 dBm and -80 dBm.

Optical power mode can be used to verify source output, confirm signal continuity, evaluate received power, and prepare the test setup for insertion loss or backreflection measurements. A fresh dark measurement should be performed when required for accurate low-level power readings.

1550 nm Single-Mode Source

The RM3550-1FA7 is configured with a nominal 1550 nm optical source. The documented source-wavelength tolerance is ±10 nm for supported single-mode wavelengths in the RM3 Series.

The 1550 nm wavelength is widely used for testing telecommunications patch cords, connectors, couplers, splitters, filters, switches, attenuators, isolators, circulators, and other compatible single-mode components.

The meter should be used with devices and reference cables intended for 1550 nm operation. Performance at unrelated wavelengths should not be assumed from this configuration.

FC/APC Ultra-Low-Backreflection Output

The FA connector code identifies an FC/APC optical output. The angled physical-contact ferrule helps reduce reflection at the instrument interface and preserves the available measurement range for low-backreflection devices.

A compatible hybrid jumper can adapt the FC/APC output to the connector type installed on the device under test. This allows the meter to test assemblies with different connector families while retaining the instrument’s low-reflection source interface.

FC/APC and FC/PC connectors must not be directly intermated. Their ferrule geometries are incompatible and can produce excessive insertion loss, poor reflection performance, unstable measurements, and physical damage.

Extraneous-Reflection Compensation

Reference jumpers, adapters, connectors, splices, and open fiber ends can generate reflections that are not produced by the device under test. These unwanted reflections become increasingly important when measuring components with very low backreflection.

The RM3550-1FA7 includes compensation for extraneous backreflection. The compensation procedure should be completed using the same jumper, adapters, terminations, and optical configuration intended for the final measurement.

If any part of the reference path is changed after compensation, the procedure should be repeated. This includes cleaning or replacing a connector, changing an adapter, moving a jumper, or altering the far-end termination.

User Calibration and Reference Verification

The instrument provides a user-calibration mode that allows measurement performance to be checked with suitable calibrated reference jumpers. This supports routine production verification and quality-control procedures.

Reference jumpers should remain clean, protected, and within their calibration period. Calibration values and verification results should be documented to support consistent testing across different operators and measurement sessions.

User calibration does not replace formal calibration when traceable measurement results are required. Formal calibration should evaluate the source, detector, internal optics, measurement functions, and applicable reference standards.

Portable Operation and Data Logging

An internal rechargeable battery supports portable operation in manufacturing areas, installation locations, service environments, and field applications. Battery operating time depends on battery age, charging history, storage conditions, temperature, and instrument use.

The standard RS-232 interface supports measurement logging to a compatible computer or serial printer. An optional foot pedal can simplify repetitive production testing by allowing an operator to record measurements while handling connectors and fiber assemblies.

Compatible Multiple Connector Test System software may be used for applicable computerized test configurations. Software, cables, printers, computers, foot pedals, and other accessories should be considered included only when specifically identified in the product listing.

Typical Applications

• Single-mode connector backreflection testing
• Fiber optic patch cord and jumper qualification
• Connector and cable assembly insertion loss testing
• Optical power measurement
• Passive optical component testing
• Connector manufacturing and process control
• Fiber optic installation verification
• Production quality assurance
• Incoming component inspection
• Telecommunications laboratory testing
• Field service and maintenance
• Computerized measurement data logging

Product Overview

Brand	JDS Uniphase
Model	RM3550-1FA7
Product Series	RM3 Series
Product Category	Backreflection, Insertion Loss and Optical Power Meter
Nominal Source Wavelength	1550 nm
Fiber Type	9/125 µm single-mode fiber
Optical Output	FC/APC ultra-low-backreflection connector
Detector Type	2 mm InGaAs
Measurement Functions	Backreflection, insertion loss, and optical power
Standard Remote Interface	RS-232
Primary Application	1550 nm testing of single-mode connectors, jumpers, components, and optical systems

 

Model Configuration

Part Number Element	Configuration
RM3	JDS Uniphase RM3 Series Backreflection Meter
Source Code 5	1550 nm source wavelength
Connector Code FA	FC/APC optical connector
Fiber Code 7	9/125 µm single-mode fiber

 

Optical Measurement Specifications

Specification	Details
Nominal Source Wavelength	1550 nm
Source Wavelength Tolerance	±10 nm
Backreflection Range	0 dB to -75 dB
Relative Backreflection Accuracy	±0.4 dB, with additional uncertainty at low reflection levels
Optical Power Range	0 dBm to -80 dBm
Typical Absolute Power Accuracy	±0.25 dB at -10 dBm following a dark measurement
Relative Power Accuracy Below 5 dB Loss	±0.05 dB
Relative Power Accuracy Above 5 dB Loss	±0.15 dB
Detector Type	2 mm InGaAs

 

System Specifications

Specification	Details
Display	16-character LCD
Standard Remote Interface	RS-232
Optional Remote Interface	GPIB on supported configurations
Portable Power	Internal rechargeable battery
Reflection Compensation	Compensation for extraneous backreflection
Calibration Function	User-adjustable calibration
Data-Logging Support	Compatible computer or serial printer
Optional Logging Control	Foot pedal

 

Physical, Electrical and Environmental Specifications

Specification	Details
Dimensions	26 cm wide x 11 cm high x 26 cm deep
Weight	Approximately 4 kg
AC Input	100 V to 240 V AC, 50 Hz to 60 Hz
Maximum Power Consumption	30 VA
Operating Temperature	0 °C to 40 °C
Storage Temperature	-40 °C to 70 °C
Maximum Humidity	95% relative humidity from 0 °C to 40 °C
Laser Classification	Class 1 under IEC 60825-1:2002 for the documented RM3 configuration
Documented Compliance	CE requirements, UL 3101-1, and CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 1010.1

 

Measurement Setup and Connector Care

The meter, reference jumper, and connected optical equipment should be allowed to stabilize before precision testing. Every connector end face should be inspected and cleaned before mating.

A suitable FC/APC reference or hybrid jumper should be connected to the meter output. The far end of the jumper must match the connector type, ferrule polish, and fiber type of the device under test.

The selected measurement function should be referenced according to the appropriate instrument procedure. During backreflection testing, the output of the device under test must be terminated effectively so the remote-end reflection does not distort the result.

For low-level optical power measurements, a dark measurement should be completed immediately before the optical reading. The reference jumper and device under test should remain mechanically stable while measurements are acquired.

Comprehensive Functional and Performance Testing

The JDS Uniphase RM3550-1FA7 receives comprehensive functional and performance testing before shipment. Evaluation may include AC power operation, rechargeable battery operation, startup, LCD condition, front-panel controls, measurement-mode selection, user-calibration functions, and RS-232 communication.

Optical testing may include verification of the 1550 nm source, detector response, backreflection measurement, insertion loss measurement, optical power measurement, extraneous-reflection compensation, and repeatability using suitable reference jumpers and optical standards.

The FC/APC output, detector interface, battery, serial port, optional interfaces, enclosure, power inlet, controls, model label, and calibration markings may be inspected for damage, contamination, or excessive wear.

The exact testing scope depends on available calibrated backreflection references, insertion-loss standards, optical power standards, hybrid jumpers, termination methods, battery condition, and communication accessories.

Calibration Before Shipment

When technically applicable and selected, the JDS Uniphase RM3550-1FA7 can be calibrated or performance-verified before shipment. Calibration may include source wavelength, source output power, backreflection response, insertion loss accuracy, optical power accuracy, detector linearity, reflection compensation, and serial communication.

Calibration documentation should identify the instrument model and serial number, source wavelength, fiber type, reference-jumper configuration, connector interfaces, optical power levels, backreflection standards, insertion-loss standards, recorded measurements, and applicable measurement uncertainty.

Buyers requiring formal calibration should specify the desired backreflection values, insertion-loss levels, optical power points, connector types, certificate format, recorded results, and required measurement uncertainty before purchase.

Buyer Considerations

Buyers should confirm the complete model as JDS Uniphase RM3550-1FA7. The configuration identifies a 1550 nm source, FC/APC optical output, and 9/125 µm single-mode fiber.

The listing should identify whether reference jumpers, hybrid test cables, calibrated backreflection standards, detector adapters, termination accessories, a foot pedal, RS-232 cable, GPIB option, transit case, battery, power cord, manuals, or calibration records are included.

The condition of the FC/APC output, detector, display, controls, rechargeable battery, RS-232 interface, optional GPIB interface, foot-pedal connection, power inlet, enclosure, and calibration labels should be reviewed before purchase.

Only the RM3550-1FA7 meter and accessories specifically identified in the product listing should be considered included.

Why Buy from AssetRelay?

AssetRelay supplies professional equipment and product solutions for fiber optic, telecom, laboratory, production, optical testing, photonics, inspection, cleaning, electronic testing, RF/microwave, and technical research applications. The JDS Uniphase RM3550-1FA7 supports jumper manufacturers, connector producers, telecommunications laboratories, production facilities, installers, service organizations, and quality-assurance teams requiring backreflection, insertion loss, and optical power measurements.

Buyers should review the product photographs, complete model identification, source wavelength, 9/125 µm fiber configuration, FC/APC output condition, included reference jumpers, battery condition, remote interface, calibration status, functional test results, and included accessories before purchase.