Characterisation of single-mode optical fibres by measurement of equalisation wavelength

A new technique for characterising single-mode optical fibres is described. Having performed a single numerical computation for a specific fibre type, and having obtained empirically the length dependence of the effective cutoff wavelength for that fibre type, coating type and cable structure, then a measurement of equalisation wavelength on any fibre of the same type will enable the V-value to be related to wavelength. It will also allow prediction of the effective cutoff wavelength for that fibre type, coating type and cable structure.