Return loss (RL) is also called reflection loss. When high-speed signals enter or exit a part of an optical fiber, such as an optical fiber connector, discontinuity and impedance mismatch may cause reflection, which is the return loss of an optical fiber. Reflectance (which has also been called "back reflection" or optical return loss) of a connection is the amount of light that is reflected back up the fiber toward the source by light reflections off the interface of the polished end surface of the mated connectors and air. 8, OptiFiber is able to measure optical return loss. An air gap can be due to dirt, de-bris, enface geometry or other causes, and will impact the strength of that reflection. This is important. It is the % of power reflected back in relation to forward power at a particular point in a light path.
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