Optical Time Domain Reflectometers (OTDR) - Rent and Buy Certified Used

We offer a wide range of OTDRs for rent, as well as flexible financial solutions to suit your individual needs. Our certified pre-owned OTDRs undergo a rigorous 23-step certification process in our labs to ensure their quality before the sale. Expert engineers in our in-house labs calibrate and check the equipment to ensure that it is ready for use. We also provide a one-year warranty and a 14-day money-back guarantee to give you peace of mind every time you purchase. This means that you can access premium quality OTDRs from brands like VIAVI, EXFO, and Fluke at a fraction of their usual price. 

For the greatest flexibility and cost savings, OTDR rental might be the best option for you. Renting your test equipment means you can access a wide selection of the latest measurement equipment at affordable rates and adaptable terms to suit your needs. Quick delivery and technical support from our experts mean that your rental will run smoothly. Renting equipment is often the most cost-effective approach, freeing up capital and reducing pressure on budgets. 

About OTDRs 

Optical time domain reflectometers are optical test devices designed to troubleshoot fiber optic cables. They work by sending pulses of laser light down fibers and then measuring the backscattering (the light that reflects back from these pulses). The devices create a graph on the screen showing the strength of the return signal against the distance along the fibre, known as a trace. 

OTDRs can be used to measure the optical distance to the end of the fibre, to faults, and to elements such as splices or connectors. They can also be used to identify the loss of splices and connectors, the reflectance of connectors, and total fiber attenuation.  

Because they show the user exactly where problems are in the optical cables, OTDRs are essential tools for maintaining telecommunication networks.   

Types of OTDR 

Benchtop OTDRs 

Benchtop OTDRs are full-featured test instruments often used in labs and production facilities. These tend to have a direct AC power source and are not portable.  

Handheld OTDRs 

Designed for easy use in the field, these handheld devices are smaller and more lightweight than their benchtop counterparts. They are battery-powered and balance portability with powerful features. Sometimes, handheld OTDRs are referred to as mini OTDRs. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do OTDRs work?  

OTDR testers contain a laser source that sends out a pulse of light at a specific wavelength. As the pulse moves through the optical fiber under test, the OTDR detects the light that reflects or refracts back down the fibre toward the device. By analysing the returning light from the pulse the instrument can determine the type, location, and loss value of events in the cable. Displaying this on the screen of the tester allows users to diagnose issues from the optical return loss and reflectance.  

Why rent an OTDR? 

Giving you the flexibility you need, renting an OTDR allows you to access the right equipment at a fraction of the cost of buying, with no delays or downtime. With our rental solutions, you can use top-of-the-range OTDRs without any of the upfront costs. Plus, if your testing and measurement needs change it’s easy to change your rental, too.

Why buy used OTDRs? 

You can access top-quality OTDRs at stunningly low prices by buying certified pre-owned instruments. All fully tested and calibrated by our experts, our pre-owned OTDRs are on sale for a fraction of the price of new devices. Buying pre-owned is one of the most cost-effective solutions for all your optical fiber testing needs.  

How do I choose the right OTDR? 

Many factors impact the type of OTDR which is right for your application. Firstly, the type of networks under test and the fiber types should be considered. Whether you opt for a singlemode or multimode OTDR will depend on the type of fibers you will be testing and the type of measurements you will be making are also important when choosing a device. The dimensions and weight of the tester are also important to consider so that you have the right balance of function and portability. Other factors that may make a difference are the battery life, size of the display, and storage capacity for results. Whether the device is compatible with intelligent optical link mapping is another thing to consider. 

What's the difference between an OTDR and IOLM?  

IOLM or intelligent optical link mapping is a way of enhancing your OTDR testing through automation. An IOLM application simplifies complex trace analysis by automatically defining the testing parameters and interpreting the multiple traces for you. Many of the OTDRs we stock are compatible with intelligent optical link mapping.