CrimpShop's fiber category covers test, inspection, and field termination for single-mode and multimode fiber. The Wireless Fiber Inspection Scope (PT-SCOPE-200) connects to a phone for IEC 61300-3-35 end-face inspection. The ECO Fiber Termination Kit (ECO-TERMK-01) has the cleaver, strippers, and 650nm visual fault locator for mechanical field termination; connectors are not included. Fault finding depends on the reading you need: the Visual Fault Locator (TVFL100) reveals breaks and performance-reducing bends in most types of fiber optic cable, and the PT-OTDR-100 Mini OTDR (PT-OTDR-100) returns distance to fault and an event map. Match the tool to the phase of the job you are on.
Fiber optic tool specifications on CrimpShop come from manufacturer documentation. Check our Connector Compatibility Guide for copper termination needs.
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Fiber Optic Tools by Job Phase
Fiber optic work requires a different tool set than copper termination. CrimpShop's fiber category is organized around the three job phases: test and locate faults, inspect end-faces, and terminate.
For testing and fault location, the right tool depends on the reading you need. On short runs, the Visual Fault Locator (TVFL100, $140.94) is a 10mW visible red laser that reveals breaks and performance-reducing bends in most types of fiber optic cable. The PT-OTDR-100 Mini OTDR ($931.78) provides distance-to-fault measurements and event maps on single-mode and multimode fiber.
For end-face inspection, IEC 61300-3-35 requires that all fiber connectors be inspected before connection. The Wireless Fiber Inspection Scope (PT-SCOPE-200, $1,886.70) pairs with a smartphone and provides pass/fail imaging for LC, SC, and other common connector types without a separate monitor.
Accurate OTDR testing on short fiber spans requires launch cables to move the dead zone past the connector under test. CrimpShop carries both launch rings (LCR-SA1SU1-SM3-150M, $226.67) and launch boxes (SLB-SA1SU1-SM3-150M, $425.00) for single-mode applications.
For field termination, the ECO Fiber Termination Kit (ECO-TERMK-01, $625.29) has a cleaver rated up to 36,000 cleaves, tri-hole fiber strippers, Kevlar scissors, a 650nm visual fault locator, and a carrying bag. Mechanical connectors are not included. Fiber optic cleaners (FC125, $109.43) cover connector maintenance and pre-connection cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an OTDR used for in fiber optic testing?
An OTDR (Optical Time Domain Reflectometer) sends a laser pulse down a fiber and measures the reflections to produce an event map showing connector losses, splice losses, and fiber breaks with distance. It is used to commission new fiber runs and to diagnose faults on existing links.
Why do I need a launch cable with an OTDR?
When an OTDR fires its laser pulse, the strong reflection from the first connector creates a dead zone where the instrument cannot measure accurately. A launch cable (also called a launch lead or launch ring) puts 50 to 300 meters of fiber between the OTDR port and the span under test, moving the dead zone past the first connector so you can see it on the trace.
What is the IEC 61300-3-35 inspection standard?
IEC 61300-3-35 is the international standard for fiber connector end-face cleanliness and defects. It defines four zones on a connector end-face (A, B, C, D) and specifies the maximum size and number of defects permitted in each zone for a pass result. Major carriers and network operators require 61300-3-35 pass results before accepting fiber terminations.
Can I do fiber termination without a fusion splicer?
Yes. Mechanical connectors and pre-polished field connectors (also called no-epoxy or hot-melt connectors) allow field termination without a fusion splicer. The ECO Fiber Termination Kit is built for this application. Mechanical termination produces slightly higher and less consistent splice loss than fusion splicing, so it is better suited for short runs and access-layer work than backbone or long-haul fiber.