Optical Time Domain Reflectometers (OTDRs) - 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 verify quality before the sale. Expert engineers in our in-house labs calibrate and check the equipment to ensure it is ready for use upon arrival. This means that you can access quality OTDRs from brands like VIAVI, EXFO, and Fluke at a fraction of their usual price. 

For the most flexibility and savings, OTDR rental might be the best option. Renting test equipment means you can access a wide selection of the latest instruments at affordable rates and flexible terms to suit your needs. Quick delivery and technical support from our experts mean you can get set up and started quickly. Renting equipment is often the most cost-effective approach, freeing up capital and reducing budget pressure. 

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 from these pulses). The devices create a graph on the screen showing the strength of the return signal against the distance along the fiber, known as a trace. 

OTDRs can be used to measure optical distance to the end of the fiber, to faults, and to elements like splices or connectors. They can also be used to identify 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 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 compared to 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 fiber toward the device. By analyzing 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 allows the user 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 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 quality OTDRs at low prices by buying certified pre-owned instruments. All are fully tested and calibrated by our experts, and 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 that is right for your application. First, the type of networks under test and the fiber types should be considered. Whether you opt for a single mode or multimode OTDR will depend on the type of fibers you are testing and the type of measurements you will be making. The dimensions and weight of the tester are also important to consider so you have the right balance of function and portability. Other factors to consider are battery life, display size, 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.