ONMSi Remote Fiber Test System (RFTS)

The RFTS from VIAVI, Optical Network Management System (ONMSi), increases workforce productivity and facilitates the management of fiber optic networks with fewer technicians through remote fiber testing and accurate fiber plant documentation. The system accurately detects and locates fiber degradation, alerting operators and managers with the details of faults. Measurement schedules allow network operators to assess long-term fiber performance to form the basis of efficient asset management. ONMSi is also part of the NITRO Fiber Sensing solution.

What is the definition of RFTS?

RFTS stands for "Remote Fiber Test System" which is a centralized system that combines strategically placed fiber optic test heads in key network locations to constantly sweep the fiber with an OTDR test signal to identify and locate fiber faults and degradations. The RFTS can switch across the fiber plant and/or test on demand. On-demand test use cases include construction verification and post-repair verification after a fiber break.

What issues can be tracked with an RFTS like ONMSi?

Fiber degradation where fibers are becoming crushed or bent and signal impairment is a result. No outage will be present yet, but performance issues can arise. Because connectors are the number one issue affecting fiber plants, a dirty, damaged, or disconnected connector can be seen using the RFTS OTDR. Other on-demand use cases include switching the OTDR to a specific DWDM wavelength and conducting a troubleshooting test to see if there is a fiber problem vs. an active element problem where the OLT or ONT/ONU might not be performing to standard.