EXFO FTB Series Optical Testing Platforms

2 models with full specifications from EXFO.

The EXFO FTB family offers specialized solutions for characterization and troubleshooting in fiber-optic networks. This series includes versatile platforms designed to accommodate multiple test applications in the field. This page outlines the differences and typical use cases for two distinct members of this family: the EXFO FTB-200 and the EXFO FTB-150-ACCESS.

Operating Temperature Range
0 °C to 50 °C
LAN Interface Speed
10/100Base-T (RJ-45)
FTB-150-ACCESS Battery Life
Up to 8 hours
FTB-200 Module Slots
2 slots

Models in this series

ModelTypeDimensions (W×H×D)DisplayDisplay Resolution
FTB-200*misc322 mm × 197 mm × 109 mm6.4 in (163 mm) outdoor-enhanced color TFT touchscreen, 640 x 480 VGA640 x 480 VGA
FTB-150-ACCESSOTDR322 mm × 250 mm × 121 mm8.4-inch (213 mm) TFT outdoor-readable color touchscreen, 800 x 600 SVGA resolution800 x 600 pixels (SVGA)

Modular Platform vs. Dedicated OTDR

The main distinction between these two systems lies in their architecture and application focus.

  • EXFO FTB-200: A modular host platform with two slots designed to accept swap-in EXFO FTB series modules. This platform supports diverse configurations including OTDR, Optical Loss Test Set (OLTS), Polarization Mode Dispersion (PMD) analysis, Chromatic Dispersion (CD) analysis, and Ethernet or transport testing. It runs on Windows CE and serves as a multi-technology testing hub.
  • EXFO FTB-150-ACCESS: A dedicated optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) pre-configured for singlemode fiber testing in short-range access and FTTH applications. It features built-in stable light source options, an optional Visual Fault Locator (VFL), and can test through high-port-count splitters up to 1x32.

Display and Interface Capabilities

Both instruments are optimized for outdoor use but offer different screen sizes and port configurations:

  • EXFO FTB-200: Equipped with a 6.4-inch (163 mm) outdoor-enhanced color TFT touchscreen (640 x 480 VGA). Physical connections include two USB 2.0 ports and a dedicated USB port for an EXFO FIP-400 series fiber inspection probe.
  • EXFO FTB-150-ACCESS: Provides a larger 8.4-inch (213 mm) outdoor-readable color TFT touchscreen (800 x 600 SVGA resolution). It includes three USB 2.0 ports (two host, one device) and a dedicated fiber inspection probe port.

Physical Dimensions and Power Specifications

For field portability, the physical profiles and power options of the two models differ:

  • EXFO FTB-200: Weighs 2.5 kg with dimensions of 322 mm × 197 mm × 109 mm. Power is provided via AC Input (100-240 V, 50-60 Hz) and DC Output (24 V, 3.75 A).
  • EXFO FTB-150-ACCESS: Weighs 3.2 kg with dimensions of 322 mm × 250 mm × 121 mm. It operates via an AC adapter/charger or its integrated rechargeable Li-Ion battery, which provides up to 8 hours of operation under standard testing conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What wavelengths does the EXFO FTB-150-ACCESS use?
The FTB-150-ACCESS is available in triple-wavelength configurations, offering a choice of either 1310/1490/1550 nm or 1310/1550/1625 nm.
What is the event dead zone of the EXFO FTB-150-ACCESS?
It features a 1-meter event dead zone, which is optimized for identifying closely spaced events in short-range access and FTTH networks.
Can the EXFO FTB-200 test Ethernet networks?
Yes, when configured with compatible EXFO Ethernet and transport test modules, the FTB-200 modular platform supports Ethernet transport testing.