What is required for testing the installation of fiber optic cables?

For testing the installation of fiber optic cables, the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) is essential. This device is specifically designed to evaluate the performance and integrity of fiber optic cables. It works by sending a pulse of light into the fiber and measuring the light that is reflected back. This capability allows technicians to locate faults, measure splice losses, and assess the overall quality of the cable installation. The OTDR provides crucial information about the distance to any issues along the fiber, making it a key tool for troubleshooting and ensuring optimal performance.

Other options, while valuable in different contexts, do not serve the specific purpose of evaluating fiber optic cables. A Network Analyzer is typically used for characterizing RF networks rather than optical fiber installations. A Multimeter is mainly used for measuring electrical parameters such as voltage, current, and resistance, which are not applicable in assessing fiber optic performance. A Signal Generator is utilized to generate signals for testing electronic circuits, but it does not have the capability to analyze the state of fiber optic infrastructure directly. Thus, the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer stands out as the correct and appropriate choice for this task.