JDS Uniphase RM3750B 1550 nm Single-Mode Backreflection, Insertion Loss and Optical Power Meter

JDS Uniphase RM3750B 1550 nm Backreflection Meter

The JDS Uniphase RM3750B is a portable optical test instrument for measuring backreflection, insertion loss, and optical power in single-mode fiber optic connectors, patch cords, passive components, and complete optical systems. Its integrated 1550 nm source and direct-reading measurement functions make it well suited to connector manufacturing, jumper testing, component qualification, installation verification, and quality assurance.

The meter uses a single FC/APC output port designed to provide an ultra-low-backreflection connection to the test path. Hybrid reference jumpers can be used to accommodate different connector formats without compromising the available measurement range. This arrangement is particularly practical for manufacturers and service organizations testing assemblies fitted with different connector styles.

For a backreflection measurement, the device under test is connected to the reference jumper and the far end is properly terminated. The RM3750B then displays the measured backreflection directly. The instrument can also be switched to insertion loss or optical power mode, allowing several important optical parameters to be evaluated with one meter.

Features and Benefits of the JDS Uniphase RM3750B

• Three measurement functions: Measures backreflection, insertion loss, and optical power with one portable instrument.
• 1550 nm source: Supports testing of compatible C-band single-mode connectors, components, patch cords, and systems.
• Low-reflection measurement capability: Supports single-mode backreflection measurements down to -75 dB.
• Wide optical power range: Measures optical power and insertion loss down to -80 dBm.
• FC/APC output: Uses an ultra-low-backreflection optical interface compatible with suitable hybrid test jumpers.
• Direct measurement display: Shows backreflection, optical power, or insertion loss on an integrated 16-character LCD.
• Reflection compensation: Compensates for extraneous backreflection produced by the measurement setup.
• User calibration: Allows measurement response to be verified using suitable calibrated reference jumpers.
• Rechargeable battery: Supports portable testing in production, laboratory, installation, and field environments.
• RS-232 interface: Provides serial connectivity for compatible computers and data-logging equipment.
• Optional foot-pedal support: Facilitates hands-free data recording during repetitive connector and jumper testing.
• Compact construction: Combines portable dimensions with operation from universal AC power.

Backreflection Measurements

Backreflection is the optical power reflected toward the source by a connector, splice, component, or discontinuity in the fiber path. Excessive reflection can affect the operation of lasers, optical amplifiers, transmitters, and other reflection-sensitive photonic devices.

The RM3750B provides direct backreflection measurements for compatible 9/125 µm single-mode devices. The supported range extends from 0 dB to -75 dB, allowing the meter to evaluate both highly reflective interfaces and low-reflection optical connections.

Relative backreflection accuracy is specified at ±0.4 dB under the documented measurement conditions. Additional typical uncertainty applies toward the lowest end of the measurement range. Readings from -60 dB to -67 dB require an additional ±0.4 dB allowance, readings from -67 dB to -72 dB require an additional ±0.8 dB, and readings from -72 dB to -75 dB require an additional ±1.5 dB.

Insertion Loss Measurements

The JDS Uniphase RM3750B can measure the attenuation introduced by a connector, patch cord, component, adapter, splice, or optical link. A reference reading is established before the device under test is added to the optical path. The difference between the reference level and the measured level represents insertion loss.

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.

Accurate insertion loss measurements require stable reference jumpers and clean optical interfaces. The reference should be checked again if a reference connection is moved, disconnected, cleaned, or replaced.

Optical Power Measurements

The RM3750B incorporates a 2 mm InGaAs detector for optical power measurements. 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 procedure is followed. An additional ±0.1 dB applies between -70 dBm and -80 dBm.

Power mode can be used to verify optical source output, check signal continuity, evaluate received optical levels, and prepare a test setup for insertion loss or backreflection measurements.

1550 nm Single-Mode Testing

The RM3750B is configured for operation at a nominal wavelength of 1550 nm. The documented tolerance for the single-mode optical source is ±10 nm.

This wavelength is commonly used for testing telecommunications components, optical patch cords, couplers, splitters, filters, switches, attenuators, connectors, and other devices designed for C-band operation.

The instrument is intended for compatible 9/125 µm single-mode fiber. Single-mode reference cables, hybrid jumpers, adapters, and termination accessories should be used throughout the test path.

FC/APC Optical Output

The ultra-low-backreflection output uses an FC/APC connector. Its angled physical-contact geometry helps reduce reflections at the meter interface and preserve the measurement range needed for low-reflection testing.

A compatible hybrid jumper can adapt the FC/APC output to the connector type fitted to the device under test. This allows assemblies with FC/PC, SC/PC, SC/APC, LC, or other connector formats to be tested using the appropriate reference cable.

FC/APC and FC/PC connectors must not be directly intermated. The different ferrule geometries can produce high insertion loss, unreliable return loss, and physical damage to the connector end faces.

Extraneous-Reflection Compensation

Reflections from reference jumpers, adapters, connectors, and open fiber ends can affect a backreflection measurement. The RM3750B provides compensation for these extraneous reflections so the displayed result more accurately represents the device under test.

The compensation procedure should be performed using the same test jumper, adapters, and optical configuration intended for the final measurement. Changing the setup after compensation can alter the residual reflection and affect measurement accuracy.

User Calibration and Verification

The RM3750B provides a user-calibration mode that allows its response to be checked or adjusted with suitable calibrated reference jumpers. This is useful for routine production checks and measurement-system verification.

Reference jumpers should remain clean, protected, and within their calibration interval. A user verification procedure does not replace formal instrument calibration when traceable measurement results are required.

Portable Operation and Data Logging

An internal rechargeable battery supports portable use away from a fixed AC outlet. This allows the RM3750B to be used on production floors, at installation locations, and in other environments where direct access to AC power may be limited.

The standard RS-232 interface supports data logging to a compatible computer or serial printer. An optional foot pedal can be used to initiate recording while the operator handles connectors and fiber assemblies.

Battery condition and operating time depend on age, charging history, storage, and previous use. Battery performance should be verified when extended portable operation is required.

Typical Applications

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

Product Overview

Brand	JDS Uniphase
Model	RM3750B
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
Source Output Interface	FC/APC ultra-low-backreflection connector
Detector Type	2 mm InGaAs
Standard Remote Interface	RS-232
Primary Application	Backreflection, insertion loss, and power testing of single-mode connectors and components

 

Optical Specifications

Specification	Details
Nominal Operating Wavelength	1550 nm
Source Wavelength Tolerance	±10 nm
Fiber Type	9/125 µm single-mode
Backreflection Range	0 dB to -75 dB
Relative Backreflection Accuracy	±0.4 dB under the documented conditions
Optical Power Range	0 dBm to -80 dBm
Typical Absolute Power Accuracy	±0.25 dB at -10 dBm
Relative Power Accuracy Below 5 dB Loss	±0.05 dB
Relative Power Accuracy Above 5 dB Loss	±0.15 dB

 

Backreflection Accuracy at Low Reflection Levels

Reading Range	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

 

System Specifications

Specification	Details
Display	16-character LCD
Measurement Display Modes	Backreflection, insertion loss, or optical power
Standard Interface	RS-232
Optional Interface	GPIB on supported configurations
Portable Power	Internal rechargeable battery
Reflection Compensation	Compensation for extraneous backreflection
Calibration Functions	User-adjustable calibration and verification with calibrated reference jumpers
Data-Logging Support	Compatible computer or serial printer
Optional Data-Logging Control	Foot pedal

 

Physical and Environmental Specifications

Specification	Details
Dimensions	26 cm wide x 11 cm high x 26 cm deep
Weight	Approximately 4 kg
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

 

Electrical and Safety Specifications

Specification	Details
AC Input Voltage	100 V to 240 V AC
Line Frequency	50 Hz to 60 Hz
Maximum Power Consumption	30 VA
Laser Classification	Class 1 under IEC 60825-1:2002 for the documented RM3 configuration
Documented Safety Compliance	CE requirements, UL 3101-1, and CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 1010.1

 

Measurement Setup and Connector Care

The RM3750B, reference jumper, and connected optical equipment should be allowed to stabilize before precision measurements are performed. All connector end faces should be inspected and cleaned before mating.

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

The instrument should be referenced according to the selected backreflection, insertion loss, or power measurement procedure. During backreflection testing, the far end of the device under test must be terminated effectively so the end reflection does not distort the measurement.

For low-level optical power measurements, a dark measurement should be completed immediately before recording the result. Reference jumpers and the device under test should remain mechanically stable throughout the measurement.

Comprehensive Functional and Performance Testing

The JDS Uniphase RM3750B receives comprehensive functional and performance testing before shipment. Evaluation may include AC operation, rechargeable battery operation, startup, LCD condition, front-panel controls, measurement-mode selection, source output, detector response, user-calibration functions, and RS-232 communication.

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

The FC/APC output port, detector interface, internal battery, communication interface, power inlet, enclosure, model label, and calibration label may be inspected for damage, contamination, or excessive wear.

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

Calibration Before Shipment

When technically applicable and selected, the JDS Uniphase RM3750B 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.

A complete calibration should identify the meter model and serial number, source wavelength, fiber type, jumper configuration, connector interfaces, optical power levels, backreflection standards, insertion-loss standards, recorded measurements, and applicable uncertainty.

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

Why Buy from AssetRelay?

AssetRelay supplies professional equipment and product solutions for fiber optic, telecom, laboratory, production, optical test, inspection, cleaning, electronic test, RF/microwave, and photonics applications. The JDS Uniphase RM3750B provides integrated backreflection, insertion loss, and optical power measurement for jumper manufacturers, connector producers, telecommunications laboratories, production facilities, installers, service organizations, and quality-assurance teams.

Buyers should review the product photographs, source wavelength, fiber configuration, FC/APC output condition, reference jumper requirements, battery condition, remote interface, calibration status, test results, and included accessories before purchase.