Abstract: Bi-directional attenuation of an optical fiber is measured using a half duplex Manchester type fiber optic transceiver having receiving circuitry that combines optical power and wavelength meter. A communication protocol insures sequential timings of digital transmission/reception sequences and measures from two transceivers, one at each side of the fiber under test. Measured wavelengths are used to digitally compensate the power level wavelength dependency of the transceivers optical receiving paths. Attenuations from both directions are determined using the compensated measured power levels and digitally transmitted power levels. Fiber optic jumper cables connecting the transceivers to the fiber under test are independently referenced at each side from the single connector of the transceiver.

Abstract: An apparatus to convert optical power into a voltage includes a wavelength selector switch and can plug itself into any multi-meter. The converter apparatus comprises an annular connector which adapts onto any type of optical fiber connectors which may be of various diameters. A photo-diode at the receiving end is large enough so as not to require that the optical fiber be at a 90.degree. angle to the photo-diode surface at any time, so the surface gets the best possible reading. A switch on the converter housing allows to calibrate instantly the converter at the right wavelength used for the test. The optical power is then converted and sent as a voltage value through a pair of banana plugs that can be affixed to any multi-meter. A battery within the housing provides the power to the converter so no external power source is needed. The converter allows the use of a low price multi-meter rather than needing a converter particularly built for this application.