Stabilized Optical Light Source for Single-Mode and Multimode Loss Testing
Stabilized optical light source provides a controlled output at selected fibre wavelengths so an optical power meter can measure end-to-end insertion loss. The JW3109 series can be configured with one to four outputs for single-mode or multimode work, including 1310/1550 nm and model-dependent 850/1300 nm or 650 nm functions.
An OLS is one half of a loss-test set. A defensible result requires a compatible calibrated power meter, matching wavelength, correct fibre type, stable warm-up, approved reference cords and a documented reference method. Buyers should select the JW3109A/B/C/D variant from the actual network rather than order by the phrase multi-wavelength alone.
Selecting Wavelength and Source Configuration
Network/task | Source selection | Buyer check |
Single-mode installed cabling | 1310 and/or 1550 nm FP-LD output | Match the project acceptance wavelengths and connector polish. |
Multimode cabling | 850 and/or 1300 nm source designed for the required launch | Confirm source type and encircled-flux/modal-launch requirement where applicable. |
Tone identification | 270 Hz, 1 kHz or 2 kHz modulation | Verify compatibility with the OPM or fibre identifier. |
Visible continuity | 650 nm function where ordered | Treat as VFL-style qualitative indication, not loss source. |
Formal insertion-loss test | Stable CW source plus calibrated OPM | Define reference method, cords, adapters and pass/fail budget. |
Reference Method and Source Stability Matter More Than One Reading
Before testing, allow the source to stabilise according to the approved method, clean and inspect all interfaces, connect the reference cord(s), then set the OPM reference. Do not disconnect the launch reference connector after the reference is established unless the method requires a new reference. Report wavelength, reference method, test-cord grade and direction with the measured dB loss.
IEC 61280-4-2 applies to attenuation and optical-return-loss measurement principles for installed single-mode cabling. IEC 61315 addresses calibration of fibre-optic power meters. The complete loss-test system—not the source alone—determines measurement uncertainty.
Technical Specifications
Parameter | Specification |
Product Model | JW3109 Series (JW3109A/JW3109B/JW3109C/JW3109D) |
Tool Type | Professional Handheld Stable Light Source |
Applicable Fiber Type | Single Mode (SM) / Multi Mode (MM) Fiber |
Operating Wavelengths | Optional 1-4 Wavelengths: 650nm, 850nm/1300nm, 1310nm/1550nm, 850/1300/1310/1550nm |
Light-Emitting Device | FP-LD (for 850/1300/1310/1550nm), LED (for 650nm) |
Typical Output Power | 0dBm (650nm, LED); -7dBm (1310/1550nm, FP-LD); -20dBm (850/1300nm, FP-LD) |
Spectral Width | ≤10nm |
Output Stability | ±0.05dB/15mins; ±0.1dB/8hours |
Modulation Frequencies | 650nm: CW, 2Hz; 850/1300/1310/1550nm: CW, 270Hz, 1kHz, 2kHz |
Optical Interface | FC/UPC (Interchangeable with SC/ST/LC Connectors via Adapter) |
Display Mode | Large Backlight LCD Display, Shows Wavelength, Modulation Status and Power Information |
Power Supply | 3×AA 1.5V Alkaline Batteries (or Rechargeable Batteries); Low Battery Prompt Function |
Battery Life | ≥45 Hours (Continuous Operation with Alkaline Batteries); Optional 10-Minute Auto-Off |
Operating Temperature | -10°C to +60°C |
Storage Temperature | -25°C to +70°C |
Relative Humidity | 5%~95% (No Condensation) |
Body Material | High-Strength Engineering Plastic, Anti-Drop & Wear-Resistant |
Overall Dimensions | 175mm × 82mm × 33mm (Ergonomic Handheld Design) |
Net Weight | ≈295g (Excluding Batteries) |
Certifications | CE, RoHS (Meets International Quality and Safety Standards) |
Warranty Period | 1 Year (Device Body); Consumables Excluded |
Standard Package | 1×JW3109 Stable Light Source Host, 1×FC/UPC Connector, 3×AA Alkaline Batteries, 1×User Manual, 1×Warranty Card, 1×Portable Storage Bag, 1×Cleaning Kit (Cleaning Swabs + Cleaning Cloth), 1×Desiccant |
Configuration control: The original JW3109 Technical Specifications table is retained. Confirm exact sub-model, wavelengths, emitter type, output power, stability, modulation, connector, battery and package. Connector adapters change physical compatibility but do not automatically correct UPC/APC geometry or fibre launch conditions.
Source and Loss-Test Limits
- Wavelength pairing: the OLS and OPM must use the same calibrated wavelength.
- Single-mode versus multimode: source launch conditions are different; do not assume one generic output gives standards-aligned results for both.
- Stability: output specification depends on warm-up, time and environment; define the acceptance check.
- Modulated tones: useful for identification but formal loss testing normally uses the required stable measurement mode.
- 650 nm output: visible light is for tracing/continuity and should not be confused with 1310/1550 nm loss acceptance.
Common Field-Failure Risks and Prevention
Risk | Result in the field | Prevention |
Wrong source wavelength | Loss result is not comparable to the project limit | Lock wavelength in SOP and report. |
Reference connector disturbed | All subsequent results shift | Protect the launch reference connection and re-reference after any change. |
Dirty source port/test cord | Unstable or excessive measured loss | Inspect, clean and re-inspect before reference and final test. |
UPC/APC mismatch | High loss/reflection and possible end-face damage | Match polish through the whole test path. |
SM/MM source confusion | Incorrect modal launch and unreliable multimode result | Specify fibre type, source technology and acceptance method. |
Battery falls during testing | Output/readings become inconsistent or job stops | Check low-battery indication and include spare/rechargeable power plan. |
Pre-shipment Quality and Acceptance Plan
- Verify JW3109 sub-model, wavelengths, output power, modulation frequencies, port and adapters.
- Measure short-term and agreed long-term output stability after specified warm-up.
- Check compatibility with the intended OPM and tone-recognition/fibre-identifier workflow.
- Inspect source port, display, wavelength switching, modulation, auto-off, battery and case.
- Confirm manual language, connector polish, reference cords, serial label, inspection/calibration request and packing.
B2B Buyer Guide: Information Required for an Accurate Quote
- Single-mode or multimode fibre and required test wavelengths.
- Required CW/modulated modes, output power and stability acceptance.
- Connector interface and polish, adapters, reference-cord grade and reference method.
- Matching OPM range/wavelengths, calibration evidence and project report format.
- Battery, language, carrying case, cleaning kit, OEM label, warranty, quantity and packing.
When to Add an OTDR or VFL
Use this source with the handheld OPM or G10 OPM for insertion-loss testing. Add a VFL for visible local continuity and an OTDR when distance/event analysis is required.
MOQ, Samples, Lead Time and Packing
Commercial item | Standard arrangement |
MOQ | Project-based quantity for test instruments; all configuration details can be customized to customer requirements. |
Samples | Available according to customer requirements for functional and workflow approval. |
Lead time | Normally 5–10 days after technical configuration and order confirmation for standard availability. |
Packing | Protective bag or case plus export carton; project-specified packing available. |
Customization | Function set, adapters, accessories, label, language, inspection documents and packing. |
Related Fiber Testing Tools
LinkFiber can supply the OLS and OPM as a matched field set with reference cords, adapters, cleaning tools, case, labels and inspection records so multiple contractor teams follow the same method.