Versiv™ Release 6.12 Saves Time, Increases Accuracy, and Reduces Retesting

Setting the Correct Reference Is Easier

If the operator sets the reference incorrectly, then every subsequent measurement is wrong. That’s why we focus our efforts on making sure it’s set correctly.

Two things can interfere with the process: contaminated fiber end faces and improperly verifying the Test Reference Cords (TRCs).

Professionals know that making sure the fiber end faces are clean while setting the reference is especially important. But it’s tempting to skip this step, because it involves pausing the reference-setting process multiple times to perform the inspection. It might also be tempting to clean end faces without inspecting them, but that’s no guarantee that the end faces are clean.

CCTT graduates and dedicated readers of the user manual are aware of the Versiv feature that allows the user to inspect during the process by using the button on the FI-1000 camera, but it’s not obvious. So we’re adding a button on the screen to make that feature more readily apparent to all users. The button both makes it easier and acts as a subtle reminder, which will result in a better reference setting.

^{Touch “FIBER INSPECTOR” on the bottom center of the Set Reference Wizard screen (left) to visualize the end face. When it’s clean, touch the X in the upper left corner of the inspection screen (right) to resume the Wizard.}

Final Check: Test Reference Cords

A final check in the reference setting process is connecting and verifying the second set of test reference cords that will be used in the measurement. Not doing so can lead to erroneous measurements — unfortunately, our Technical Assistance Center sees this more often than they should.

The Versiv update has a simple check for this: It checks the length of the two cords and compares them against the first cord. If they’re the same, it means the second was never connected and verified. A warning message informs the operator, who can then make sure to complete this step correctly.

New Reminder: Plan for Calibration

A new, separate feature also ensures accuracy and prevents downtime. This one came directly from a customer suggestion. Occasionally, he would send a tester out to a job site for a few days, only to find that calibration came due in the middle of the job. His suggestion: Provide a warning screen upon power up, starting 30 days before calibration is due, so that the owner can plan for calibration at an appropriate time.

Other features in the Versiv 6.12 release include implementation of the new IEC 61300-3-35-ED3 (third edition) fiber inspection standard, five new limits, and new cable types from nine vendors.

Download the Versiv 6.12 Build 2 firmware here for Versiv 2 and here for Versiv TFS. If you’re a LinkWare™ PC user, your latest version is here.

Keep Learning

• • Versiv Training Resources (downloadable PDF)
• • Certified Cabling Test Technician Training Program