Performing an OTDR Trace

The OTDR Trace tool traces all fibers and connections within a user-defined distance along an end-to-end path.

TIP:

If an OTDR trace ends at a spot along a fiber, a red X is shown where it ends.
If the trace enters and stops in a building, the regular symbol for OTDR endpoints is shown instead of a red X.
If the trace goes through a splitter, multiple red X symbols are shown where appropriate for the path.

To set a marker symbol for the current session's OTDR tracing, do the following:
1. Click the Fiber User Settings button.
2. On the Fiber User Settings window, click the Current Session OTDR End Point Symbol button.
3. On the Symbol Selector window, choose a new symbol, color, size, etc.
After making changes, traces are set to utilize the symbol you chose.
Click the OTDR Trace button on the Fiber Manager Toolbar.
Use the flag cursor to select the feature (e.g., patch panel or splice point) that you want to define as the trace origin. If you are unable to select a feature with the flag cursor, zoom into the area first.
The Trace Selector window opens. Enter the trace distance by typing the number into the form's field.
If you want to change the color of the highlighted results, click the Trace Color button to bring up a color palette and select the color of your choice.
Select the Display Trace Path Report checkbox to create a report of the trace results.
Choose a port from the selection tree that represents the origin of the OTDR trace.

IMPORTANT: The OTDR trace behaves like a directional trace when performed on objects containing implied connections, such as front and back ports. This tool traces in the direction of the implied connection. That means that if you start the trace on the front port it traces in the direction of the back port. Likewise, if you start the trace on the back port it traces in the direction of the front port.
Click the Trace Selected Item button to execute the trace. If you checked the Display Trace Path Report, a trace report is displayed in your web browser upon trace completion.

IMPORTANT: If the distance you entered is longer than the traceable fiber, the application displays a message. The trace is still performed, ending at the termination of the traceable fiber path.
Click the Clear Graphics button on the Fiber Manager toolbar to clear the OTDR trace results from the map.