What is the role of the continuity test in a fiber optics system?

The continuity test plays a crucial role in a fiber optics system by verifying the ability to transmit optical signals. This test essentially checks whether light can travel through the fiber optic cable without interruption. By sending a light signal through the fiber and measuring whether it reaches the other end, technicians can confirm that the fiber is intact and capable of carrying data.

This test does not determine fiber loss and distance, which are typically assessed through more complex methods like an optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) or insertion loss testing. Additionally, while ensuring proper termination of fibers is an essential task in fiber optic installations, this is not the primary purpose of a continuity test. The check of power output from couplers also involves different testing methodologies, focusing on the efficiency and effectiveness of couplers rather than simply confirming signal transmission through a fiber optic cable. Thus, the focus of the continuity test is fundamentally about the transmission capability of the optical signals.