What is the main function of an OLTS?

An Optical Loss Test Set (OLTS) is primarily used to test optical link performance by measuring the overall loss of the optical signal as it travels through the fiber optic link. This capability is essential for ensuring that the link meets specified performance standards and can adequately transmit data without significant signal degradation.

The main function of an OLTS involves performing a two-way loss measurement, allowing technicians to assess both the light that is transmitted and the light that is received, thereby providing a complete picture of how the fiber optic system is functioning. This measurement takes into account all contributions to signal loss, including connectors, splices, and the inherent loss of the fiber itself, ensuring that the installed system will meet the necessary requirements for reliability and performance.

Other options focus on different aspects of fiber optic systems. Measuring the length of fiber is a specific function that an OLTS might not be primarily designed for, as this task typically involves other test equipment such as an OTDR (Optical Time Domain Reflectometer). Determining fiber quality may relate to factors such as signal-to-noise ratio or specific wavelength testing, which may also be assessed by different instruments. Splicing fiber connections is a physical process that involves joining two fibers and does not relate to the measurement capabilities of