COMPTYCO A-C710B/A-C510B Optical Power Meter & VFL User Manual

1. Introduction

The COMPTYCO A-C710B/A-C510B is a portable, all-in-one testing instrument that integrates optical power measurement and red light fault location (Visual Fault Locator - VFL) functions. It is widely used in scenarios such as fiber optic communication, FTTX network construction, and maintenance, providing a comprehensive solution for fiber optic testing needs.

COMPTYCO A-C710B Optical Power Meter VFL all-in-one device with charging port and USB cable — Figure 1: COMPTYCO A-C710B/A-C510B Optical Power Meter and VFL

2. Key Features

All-in-one Design: Combines Optical Power Meter (OPM) and Visual Fault Locator (VFL) functionalities.
Powerful Red Light Source (VFL): Stable and strong penetration for easy line inspection.
Wide Wavelength Support: Supports 10 standard wavelengths for optical power measurement.
LED Lighting: Integrated LED light for working in dark environments.
Replaceable Connectors: Supports 2.5mm universal connectors for SC/FC/ST/LC (optional).
Self-Replaceable Ceramic Core: Allows for easy maintenance and replacement of the VFL ceramic core.
User Self-Calibration: Enables users to calibrate the device for accurate measurements.
Data Storage: Stores up to 500 sets of data with cyclic overlay.
Convenient Charging: Equipped with a large-capacity rechargeable lithium battery and USB charging port.
Automatic Power-off: Features automatic switch-off after 10 minutes of standby to conserve battery.
Automatic Wavelength Recognition and Memory: Simplifies operation by automatically detecting and remembering wavelengths.

Diagram showing key features: Automatic wavelength recognition, 10 wavelengths, Automatic wavelength memory, Powerful red light, LED lighting, Common interface — Figure 2: Overview of device features

3. Package Contents

Upon opening the package, please verify that all items listed below are present and in good condition:

Optical Power Meter & VFL Host Unit
SC/FC Adapter (additional adapters like ST/LC may be optional)
USB Charging Cable
Certificate of Conformity
User Manual (this document)
Retail Box

Product List showing the device, box, USB cable, manual, and certificate of conformity — Figure 3: Items included in the package

4. Technical Specifications

Parameter	Specification
Model Number	A-C710B / A-C510B
Power Measurement Range	-70~+10dBm / -50~+26dBm (optional)
Probe Type	InGaAs
Wavelength Range	800~1700nm
Standard Wavelengths	850, 980, 1270, 1300, 1310, 1490, 1550, 1577, 1625, 1650nm
Display Resolution (Linear)	0.1%
Display Resolution (Logarithmic)	0.01dBm
Working Temperature	-10~+60°C
Storage Temperature	-25~+70°C
VFL Output Optical Power	>1mW / 10mW / 15mW / 20mW / 30mW / 50mW (depending on model)
VFL Output Wavelength	650nm
Power Supply	Rechargeable Lithium Battery
Weight	210g
Overall Size	18 x 8.9 x 4.2 cm
Power Source	Powered
Wireless Function	No
Fiber Type	Single Mode
Connector Type	Hybrid

Product parameters diagram showing dimensions and detailed technical specifications — Figure 4: Detailed Product Parameters

5. Setup and Initial Use

5.1 Charging the Device

The device is powered by a rechargeable lithium battery. Before first use, or when the battery indicator is low, connect the device to a power source using the provided USB charging cable.

Locate the USB charging port on the side of the device (refer to Figure 1).
Connect the USB cable to the device and a compatible USB power adapter (not included) or a computer USB port.
The indicator light will blink while charging. It will remain steadily on when fully charged.

Image showing the charging port and indicator light behavior during charging — Figure 5: Charging the Optical Power Meter

5.2 Attaching Connectors

The device supports various fiber optic connectors. The standard package includes an SC/FC adapter. Optional ST/LC adapters may be available.

Identify the appropriate adapter for your fiber optic cable.
Carefully screw the adapter into the optical power meter port until secure.
Ensure the connector is clean before attaching any fiber optic cable.

Diagram illustrating replaceable connectors for SC, FC, ST, and LC fiber types — Figure 6: Replaceable Connector Types

6. Operation

6.1 Device Overview and Button Functions

Familiarize yourself with the device's buttons and display:

Diagram of the device's buttons and display, indicating Power switch/backlight, VFL/LED, dB/W switch, Working wavelength switching, REF, SAVE, dB, and lambda buttons — Figure 7: Device Button Layout and Functions

Power Switch/Backlight Button: Press to turn on/off the device. Short press to toggle backlight.
VFL/LED Button: Activates the Visual Fault Locator (red light source) or the LED illumination light.
dB/W Switch Button: Toggles between dBm and mW units for power measurement.
Working Wavelength Switching Button (λ): Cycles through the available standard wavelengths (850nm, 980nm, 1270nm, 1300nm, 1310nm, 1490nm, 1550nm, 1577nm, 1625nm, 1650nm).
REF Button: Sets the current power reading as a reference value (0dB). Also used for calibration (see 6.3).
SAVE Button: Saves the current measurement data.
dB Button: Adjusts the dB parameter value, typically for relative measurements or calibration.

6.2 Optical Power Measurement

Turn on the device using the Power Switch button.
Connect the fiber optic cable to the optical power meter port.
Press the λ (Wavelength) button to select the desired working wavelength that matches your optical signal. The device supports automatic wavelength recognition.
The display will show the measured optical power in dBm or mW. Use the dB/W button to switch units if needed.
To set a reference value, press the REF button. The display will show 'REF' and the current reading will be set as 0dB for relative measurements.
To save data, press the SAVE button. The device can store up to 500 sets of data.

6.3 Visual Fault Locator (VFL) Function

The VFL function emits a red laser light to locate breaks, bends, or poor connections in fiber optic cables.

Ensure the fiber optic cable is connected to the VFL port.
Press the VFL/LED button to activate the red light source.
Observe the fiber for any visible red light leakage, which indicates a fault.
Press the VFL/LED button again to turn off the VFL.

Caution: Do not look directly into the VFL output port or into a fiber connected to the VFL, as the laser light can cause eye damage.

6.4 LED Illumination

To use the integrated LED light for illuminating dark work areas:

Press the VFL/LED button briefly to toggle the LED light on/off.

6.5 User Self-Calibration

To ensure accuracy, the device supports user self-calibration:

When the device is OFF, press and hold down the Power button and the λ (Wavelength) button simultaneously for 2 seconds.
After powering on, the device will enter the calibration function interface.
Use the REF button to increase the calibration value by 0.1dB.
Use the dB button to reduce the calibration value by 0.1dB.
Follow the on-screen prompts or refer to the detailed calibration procedure in the PDF manual for specific steps.

7. Maintenance

7.1 Cleaning

Keep the device clean and free from dust and debris.
Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior.
For optical ports, use specialized fiber optic cleaning tools (e.g., lint-free wipes and isopropyl alcohol) to ensure accurate measurements and prevent damage.

7.2 Ceramic Core Replacement (VFL)

The VFL's ceramic core is self-replaceable, allowing for extended device lifespan and easy maintenance.

Ensure the device is turned off.
Carefully remove the metal pen head from the VFL port.
Extract the old ceramic core.
Insert a new ceramic core, ensuring it is properly seated.
Reattach the metal pen head.

Close-up of the VFL port showing the LED, red light source, and the process of replacing the ceramic core — Figure 8: Self-replaceable ceramic core for VFL

7.3 Battery Care

Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently.
Charge the device regularly, even if not in use, to maintain battery health.
Store the device in a cool, dry place when not in use for extended periods.

8. Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Device does not turn on	Low battery; Device malfunction	Charge the device fully. If problem persists, contact support.
Inaccurate power readings	Dirty optical port/connector; Incorrect wavelength selected; Device needs calibration	Clean optical ports and connectors. Ensure correct wavelength is selected. Perform user self-calibration (Section 6.5).
VFL red light is dim or not working	Dirty VFL port; Damaged ceramic core; Low battery	Clean the VFL port. Replace the ceramic core (Section 7.2). Charge the device.
Cannot save data	Memory full; Device error	Check if memory is full and clear old data if necessary (refer to PDF manual for data management). Restart the device.

9. User Tips

Always clean fiber optic connectors and ports before making any measurements to ensure accuracy and prevent damage.
Utilize the LED light feature when working in dimly lit environments to improve visibility.
Regularly check the battery level and recharge the device to avoid interruptions during critical tasks.
Take advantage of the data storage function to record measurements for later analysis or reporting.

10. Warranty and Support

COMPTYCO products are designed for reliability and performance. For detailed warranty information, please refer to the official product documentation or contact your vendor.

This product is covered by a fast delivery guarantee. In case of delayed delivery, a coupon code may be provided. Refunds are available if the package is lost or items are damaged during transit, or if no delivery occurs within 30 days.

For further assistance, technical support, or to view the comprehensive item guides and documents, please refer to the official PDF user manual available at: User manual (PDF).