Abstract
Amersfoort, The Netherlands Yokogawa Europe/TM/PR/002/2017
13 April 2017
NEW PRODUCT
Yokogawa is adding an entry-level model, the AQ1000, to its range of optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) test instruments.
The new instrument joins the existing mid-range AQ1200 series and the high-end AQ7280 series and is specifically designed to increase the productivity of field personnel working on the installation and deployment of optical access networks such as fibre to the home (FTTH): the so-called ‘last mile’ to consumers’ premises.
‘The worldwide use of these optical access networks is increasing dramatically as telecom operators lay new FTTH network structure is to cope with increase in consumer demand for “super-fast” broadband and high definition TYV services’, says Terry Marrinan, Vice-President, T&M Business Unit, Yokogawa T&M Europe and Asia Pacific: ‘This means that, as optical fibres replace the copper cables to each household, more and more installers will be working on fibre-optic deployment over the last mile’.
‘FTTH installers do not need high-end OTDRs capable of measuring over hundreds of kilometres in the core network’, adds Marrinan: ‘Instead, they will need affordable OTDRs equipped with all the features that can make their job easier and faster: instruments like the Yokogawa AQ1000’.
Although the AQ1000 is positioned and priced as an entry-level model, there is no compromise on Yokogawa’s established standards of quality, accuracy and reliability. It benefits from a number of characteristics that are usually present in higher-level models, such as a high-quality capacitive multi-touch touchscreen and wireless connectivity.
Like all Yokogawa field test instruments, the AQ1000 has been designed to enhance the productivity of the personnel who work with it. Key features include a full auto test mode – which means that no time is wasted on set-up procedures or special skills required to operate it – an icon-based map view of the measured network is provided for easy interpretation of test results.
Built-in post-processing software generates OTDR reports directly in PDF format with the ability to configure the report template to suit customer requirements. As a result, reports can be sent directly from the field as soon as the tests are completed with no need for additional PC software.
The proven stability and prompt response of the AQ1000’s proprietary operating system make it very responsive to user inputs. It is also very reliable, very rapid to start up (being ready-to-measure in less than 10 s from switching on) and very energy efficient operating a full shift on a single charge (10 h of battery life under the Telcordia standard conditions).
The AQ1000 is also a complete field test tool, with a built-in power checker to establish whether the fibre is in use or not and a stabilised light source to measure network end-to-end attenuation in the network. Further test capabilities are available with the addition of an optional visible light source for visually identifying fibre breaks or macro-bends.
The new OTDR carries a Yokogawa 3-year warranty: a further reflection of Yokogawa’s confidence in the quality and reliability of its products, particularly those like the AQ1000 that are designed for field use in harsh outdoor conditions.
For further information about the AQ1000 OTDR, visit the following link: http://tmi.yokogawa.com/ea/products/optical-measuring-instruments/optical-time-domain-reflectometer/aq1000-otdr-optical-time-domain-reflectometer/
About Yokogawa Test & Measurement
Yokogawa has been developing measurement solutions for over 100 years, consistently finding new ways to give R&D teams the tools they need to gain the best insights from their measurement strategies. The company has pioneered accurate power measurement throughout its history. In 2002, it became a leading supplier of optical Test & Measurement instruments following the acquisition of Ando Electric. Today, with more than 30 years of experience in optical testing, Yokogawa offers a broad range of optical instruments and is the market leader for Optical Spectrum Analysers in research and test laboratory environments.
Yokogawa instruments are renowned for maintaining high levels of precision and for continuing to deliver value for far longer than the typical shelf-life of such equipment. Yokogawa believes that precise and effective measurement lies at the heart of successful innovation – and has focused its own R&D on providing the tools that researchers and engineers need to address challenges great and small.
Yokogawa takes pride in its reputation for quality, both in the products it delivers – often adding new features in response to specific client requests – and the level of service and advice provided to clients, helping to devise measurement strategies for even the most challenging environments.
The guaranteed accuracy and precision of Yokogawa’s instruments result from the fact that Yokogawa has its own European standards laboratory at its European headquarters in the Netherlands. This facility is the only industrial (i.e. non-government or national) organisation to offer ISO 17025 accredited power calibration, at frequencies up to 100 kHz: a requirement for higher harmonic measurements specified in quality standards such as ISO 9000.
Meet the Precision Makers at tmi.yokogawa.com
About Yokogawa
Yokogawa’s global network of 114 companies spans 59 countries. Founded in 1915, the US$3.7-billion company engages in cutting-edge research and innovation. Yokogawa is active in the industrial automation and control (IA), test and measurement, and aviation and other businesses segments. The IA segment plays a vital role in a wide range of industries including oil, chemicals, natural gas, power, iron and steel, pulp and paper, pharmaceuticals and food. For more information about Yokogawa, please visit the following link: http://www.yokogawa.com
For further information, please contact:
Noora Kulmala
Advisor Marketing & Communication
European Test & Measurement Centre
Yokogawa Europe B.V.
Euroweg 2
3825 HD Amersfoort
The Netherlands
Dave Ingle
Peter Bush Communications
The Old Forge
Audley End Business Centre
London Road
Wendens Ambo
Saffron Walden
Essex
CB11 4JL
Part of the Napier Group: www.napier.co.uk