What equipment is used to measure cable plant insertion loss prior to system turn-up?

The correct choice involves the use of a light source and power meter (LSPM or OLTS) for measuring cable plant insertion loss before the system is activated. This method is specifically designed to assess the amount of optical power that is lost as light travels through the fiber optic cable.

In this setup, the light source generates a stable test signal at specific wavelengths and sends it through the fiber optic link. The power meter measures the optical power received on the other end of the cable. By comparing the transmitted power from the light source to the received power at the meter, the technician can calculate the insertion loss in decibels (dB). This measurement is crucial for ensuring that the system will operate effectively before it is turned up, as excessive insertion loss can lead to signal degradation.

In contrast, while an optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) can provide information about faults and discontinuities within the fiber, it is not primarily used to measure insertion loss directly. Similarly, a power amplifier is used to boost signal strength, but it does not measure insertion loss. An optical loss tester, while it may seem similar, typically refers to a device designed for similar purposes but is not as commonly referenced in the context of a light source and power