This is your "QuickStart" guide to testing fiber optic cable plants, patchcords and communications equipment with a fiber optic light source and power meter. Fiber optic testing of a newly installed system not only verifies that the system meets its design requirements, but also creates a performance baseline for all future testing and troubleshooting of t at system. Corning recommends that all fiber optic systems be tested to a minimum set. We'll explain why it's vital to test fiber optic cables, the three most popular methods, and when you should use them. This is why. this document is the property of JDSU. No part of this book may be reproduced or utilized in any form or means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without pe n optical fiber to a distant receiver. As the components like fiber, connectors, splices, LED or laser sources, detectors and receivers are being developed, testing confirms their performance specifications and helps. FOA "Quickstart Guides" are short, simple guides to basic fiber optic tests. All are written in the same straightforward format: what equipment do you need, what are the procedures for testing, options in implementing the test, measurement errors and documenting the results.