1. Introduction
The UNI-T UT693A series is a versatile 4-in-1 fiber optic tester designed for comprehensive network and fiber optic cable analysis. It integrates an optical power meter, a visual fault locator (VFL) with a red light source, a network cable detector, and an LED flashlight. This compact and portable device is ideal for technicians and engineers requiring accurate measurements and efficient troubleshooting in various fiber optic and network environments.
Key features include:
- Optical Power Measurement with 10 wavelengths and two measurement ranges.
- Visual Fault Locator (VFL) with 1mW or 30mW red light source for identifying fiber breaks, bends, and dirty connectors.
- Network Cable Testing for wire order and signal checks.
- Built-in LED Flashlight for working in dark environments.
- Auto Calibration (Self-Adjust) for accurate loss/gain measurements.
- Data Logging capability to store up to 500 power readings.
- USB Type-C charging for convenience.
2. Package Contents
Please check the package for the following items:
- Main Unit (UT693A series Optical Multimeter)
- Color Box
- Type-C Charging Cable
- User Manual (this document)
- Certificate & Warranty Card
3. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components of your UT693A device:
- Optical Power Meter Interface: For connecting fiber optic cables to measure optical power.
- LED Flashlight: Provides illumination for working in dark areas.
- Type-C Charging Port: Used for charging the internal battery.
- Network Cable Test Port: For connecting network cables (RJ45) to test wire order and signal.
- Cable Test Module: A detachable module used in conjunction with the Network Cable Test Port.
- Red Light Source Port: Output for the Visual Fault Locator (VFL).
- Display: LCD screen showing measurement readings, wavelength, battery status, and other information.
- Keypad: Buttons for ON/OFF, VFL activation, wavelength selection, saving data, and reference setting.
4. Specifications
The following table details the technical specifications for the UT693A series models:
| Feature | UT693A-C01 / UT693A-C30 | UT693A-T01 / UT693A-T30 |
|---|---|---|
| Meter/Laser Port | C-type (-50~+30dBm) | T-type (-70~+10dBm) |
| Accuracy* | ±0.4dB (1310nm/1490nm/1550nm/1625nm) ±1dB (850nm/1300nm/980nm/1270nm/1577nm/1650nm) | ±0.2dB (1550nm) ±0.3dB (1310nm/1490nm/1625nm) ±1dB (850nm/1300nm/980nm/1270nm/1577nm/1650nm) |
| Calibration Wavelength | 850nm/980nm/1270nm/1300nm/1310nm/1490nm/1550nm/1577nm/1625nm/1650nm | |
| Meter/Laser Port | 2.5mm universal interface | |
| Detector Type | InGaAs | |
| Resolution | 0.01dBm | |
| Fiber frequency | 270Hz/330Hz/1KHz/2KHz | |
| Wave Memory | ✓ | |
| Auto Cal | ✓ | |
| LED Flashlight | ✓ | |
| Backlight | ✓ | |
| Laser Power | 1mW (C01), 30mW (C30) | 1mW (T01), 30mW (T30) |
| Red light wavelength | 650nm ± 20nm | |
| Red light mode | CW/2 ± 1Hz flicker | |
| Network cable sequence detection interface | RJ45 interface | |
| Charging interface | Type-C interface | |
| Data storage | 500 sets | |
| Power supply | 3.7V 450mAh lithium battery | |
| Working environment | -10 ~ 50°C, <90%RH | |
| Storage environment | -20 ~ 45°C, 65 ± 20%RH | |
| Product weight | ~95g | |
| Product size | 100mm x 59mm x 28mm | |
*Test Conditions: 23°C ± 2°C, 40 ~ 60% RH, FC/PC connector.
Type T Accuracy Range: -60 dBm to +3 dBm, otherwise refer to: ±0.8 dB; +3 dBm to +6 dBm, -65 dBm to -60 dBm @1550 nm test wavelength ±3.0 dB; +6 dBm to +10 dBm, -70 dBm to -65 dBm @1550 nm test wavelength.
Type C Accuracy Range: -40 dBm to +23 dBm, otherwise refer to: ±0.8 dB; +23 dBm to +26 dBm, -45 dBm to -40 dBm @1550 nm test wavelength ±3.0 dB; +26 dBm to +30 dBm, -50 dBm to -45 dBm @1550 nm test wavelength.
5. Setup
5.1 Charging the Device
The UT693A series devices are equipped with a built-in 3.7V 450mAh lithium battery. Before initial use, or when the battery indicator on the display shows low power, charge the device using the provided Type-C charging cable.
- Connect one end of the Type-C charging cable to the Type-C Charging Port on the device.
- Connect the other end of the cable to a USB power source, such as a power bank, computer USB port, or car USB charger.
- The device display will indicate charging status. Ensure the device is fully charged for optimal performance.
5.2 Powering On/Off
Press and hold the ON/OFF button located on the keypad to power the device on or off.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Optical Power Measurement
This function measures the optical power of fiber optic signals.
- Power on the device.
- Connect the fiber optic cable to the Optical Power Meter Interface (2.5mm universal interface).
- Press the Wavelength button to cycle through the available calibration wavelengths (850nm, 980nm, 1270nm, 1300nm, 1310nm, 1490nm, 1550nm, 1577nm, 1625nm, 1650nm) until the desired wavelength is selected.
- The display will show the measured optical power in dBm and mW.
- To set a reference value, press and hold the REF button. The current reading will be set as the 0dB reference.
- To save a reading, press and hold the >2s Save button. The device can store up to 500 sets of data.
6.2 Visual Fault Locator (VFL) / Red Light Source
The VFL function uses a strong red light to quickly identify fiber breaks, bends, and dirty connectors.
- Power on the device.
- Connect the fiber optic cable to the Red Light Source Port.
- Press the VFL button to activate the red light source.
- Observe the fiber for any visible red light leakage, which indicates a fault.
- Press the VFL button again to cycle between Continuous Wave (CW) mode and 2 ± 1Hz flicker mode, or to turn off the VFL.
6.3 Network Cable Testing
The device can test the wire order and signal of RJ45 network cables.
- Power on the device.
- Connect one end of the RJ45 network cable to the Network Cable Test Port on the main unit.
- Connect the other end of the network cable to the detachable Cable Test Module.
- The device will automatically begin testing the wire order and signal. The display will show the test results.
6.4 LED Flashlight
To activate the built-in LED flashlight, press the Flashlight icon button on the keypad. Press it again to turn off the flashlight. This feature is useful for illuminating dark work areas.
6.5 Auto Calibration (Self-Adjust)
The auto-calibration feature helps in setting loss/gain and showing true values for faster testing. The offset range is [-5,5]dB.
- Ensure the device is powered on.
- Connect a known stable optical signal to the Optical Power Meter Interface.
- Press and hold the Auto Cal button (if available, or follow specific instructions in the full manual for calibration mode) to initiate self-adjustment. The device will automatically set the loss/gain.
6.6 Data Logging
The UT693A can store up to 500 sets of power readings for later review.
- During an optical power measurement, once a stable reading is obtained, press and hold the >2s Save button.
- The device will save the current reading. Refer to the full user manual for instructions on how to access and review stored data.
7. Maintenance
7.1 Cleaning
- Wipe the device's exterior with a soft, dry cloth.
- For stubborn dirt, use a slightly damp cloth with mild detergent, then wipe dry.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Keep the optical ports clean. Use specialized fiber optic cleaning tools (e.g., lint-free wipes and isopropyl alcohol) to clean the optical interfaces before and after use to ensure accurate measurements.
7.2 Battery Care
- Recharge the device when the battery indicator is low to prolong battery life.
- If storing the device for an extended period, charge it to approximately 50% every few months.
- Do not expose the device to extreme temperatures.
7.3 Storage
- Store the device in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Use the original packaging or a protective case to prevent damage.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device does not power on. | Low battery or depleted battery. | Charge the device using the Type-C cable. |
| Inaccurate optical power readings. | Dirty optical connector/port; incorrect wavelength selected; fiber damage. | Clean optical connectors. Ensure correct wavelength is selected. Check fiber for damage using VFL. Perform auto-calibration. |
| VFL red light is dim or not visible. | Dirty VFL port; fiber not properly connected; VFL not activated. | Clean the VFL port. Ensure fiber is securely connected. Press the VFL button to activate. |
| Network cable test fails or shows incorrect wiring. | Faulty cable; improper connection to test module; damaged RJ45 port. | Ensure both ends of the cable are securely connected to the main unit and the remote module. Test with a known good cable. Replace faulty cable if necessary. |
| Display is blank or unresponsive. | Device frozen; low battery. | Try powering off and on again. If unresponsive, charge the device. If problem persists, contact support. |
9. User Tips
- Keep Connectors Clean: Fiber optic connectors are highly sensitive to dust and dirt. Always use appropriate cleaning tools and caps to protect the ports when not in use.
- Verify Wavelength: When performing optical power measurements, ensure the selected wavelength on the device matches the wavelength of the signal being tested for accurate results.
- Utilize Data Logging: For projects requiring multiple measurements or historical data, make use of the 500-set data logging feature to track performance over time.
- Portable Power: The USB Type-C charging allows for convenient charging on the go. Consider carrying a small power bank for extended field work.
- Flashlight for Efficiency: Don't underestimate the built-in LED flashlight. It can significantly improve efficiency and safety when working in dimly lit network cabinets or server rooms.
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the Certificate & Warranty Card included in your product package or contact UNI-T customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
