Reflectance measurement in Lightwave Systems: A comparison of various techniques.

A comparative study of reflectance measurement using splitters and OTDRs has been carried out to verify the accuracy of measurement procedures and the repeatability of test data. Reflectance of sample ST connections were measured via five different techniques at three AT&T Bell Laboratories: Whippany, Crawford Hill and Atlanta. Close agreement has been obtained between these measurements based on which relevant issues concerning reflectance measurements are raised and recommendations offered.