What is the primary use of mainframe optical time-domain reflectometers (OTDR)?

The primary use of mainframe optical time-domain reflectometers (OTDR) is to assist with telecommunication fault isolation. OTDRs are vital tools in telecommunications as they provide real-time analysis of fiber optic cables. By sending a series of light pulses through the fiber and measuring the reflections, an OTDR can identify the exact location of faults, breaks, or bends in the fiber, helping technicians isolate and rectify issues efficiently.

While it's true that OTDRs can play roles in related areas, such as installation verification and field deployment of fiber optics, their most significant application lies in fault isolation for existing telecommunication networks. This makes them indispensable in maintaining the integrity and performance of fiber optic networks, ensuring minimal downtime and improved service reliability.

In contrast, their use in the fiber manufacturing industry is less common, as the manufacturing process focuses more on quality control and production techniques, which may not require the specific capabilities of an OTDR.