What does the term "launch cable" refer to?

The term "launch cable" refers specifically to a short section of fiber used to initiate a test signal in an Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer (OTDR). This is crucial for accurate testing and measurement of the optical fiber system. A launch cable allows the OTDR to establish a stable signal that can be analyzed for loss measurements over longer segments of fiber. The significance of using a launch cable lies in its ability to minimize error in the measurements by compensating for the initial loss that occurs as the signal travels from the instrument to the start of the fiber under test.

Considering the context of fiber installations, the launch cable is essential for ensuring that assessments of the optical performance of the installed fiber are reliable. Accurate readings help determine the quality and integrity of the fiber, which is vital for maintaining optimal network performance.