Fiber Launch Box
The iFiber Optix Fiber Launch Box is an essential tool for achieving accurate measurements during fiber optic testing with an Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR). Designed to eliminate the OTDR's dead zone, our launch boxes ensure precise, reliable results for installation, calibration, and training — giving technicians a clear, unobstructed view of splice quality, connector performance, and fault locations across the entire fiber span.
Available in 20 km, 60 km, 80 km, and 100 km lengths with versatile low-loss connector options, iFiber Optix Fiber Launch Boxes are built for both field testing and laboratory environments — delivering consistent performance wherever accurate OTDR measurements matter most.
Fiber Launch Box — Product Overview
What Is an OTDR Launch Box?
An OTDR Launch Box creates a fiber extension that allows the OTDR instrument to stabilize before measuring the fiber under test — resulting in more accurate readings of splices, connectors, and breaks throughout the network. Without a launch box, the OTDR's initial pulse creates a dead zone that can obscure critical details at the near end of the fiber span.
- Installation & Testing Ensures accurate, repeatable results during fiber optic network installations and commissioning — allowing technicians to verify splice and connector quality from the very first meter of fiber under test.
- Training & Calibration Provides a clear, unobstructed view of network performance for technician training and recalibration of OTDR testing equipment — establishing a reliable baseline for ongoing network maintenance programs.
- Minimizing Dead Zones Reduces the impact of the OTDR's initial launch pulse — known as the dead zone — which can mask splice losses, connector reflections, and fiber breaks located near the instrument end of the cable plant.
Available Configurations
iFiber Optix Fiber Launch Boxes are available in four standard lengths with singlemode fiber, terminated with low-loss connectors to match your OTDR and network equipment.
| Model | Fiber Length | Fiber Type | Connector Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Launch Box 20 km | 20 km | Singlemode | Configurable | Short-haul & metro networks |
| Launch Box 60 km | 60 km | Singlemode | Configurable | Regional fiber plant testing |
| Launch Box 80 km | 80 km | Singlemode | Configurable | Long-haul OTDR dead zone elimination |
| Launch Box 100 km | 100 km | Singlemode | Configurable | Extended long-haul & subsea testing |
Features of iFiber Optix Fiber Launch Boxes
- Low-Loss Connectors All launch boxes are terminated with high-quality, low-loss connectors to ensure precise test results and minimal signal attenuation — maintaining measurement integrity across the full length of the launch fiber.
- Variety of Lengths Available in 20 km, 60 km, 80 km, and 100 km configurations to accommodate the full range of testing scenarios — from short metro spans to extended long-haul fiber plant measurements.
- Versatile Connector Options Choose from multiple connector configurations to ensure full compatibility with your existing OTDR and network equipment — including SC, LC, FC, and ST terminations in both UPC and APC polish options.
- Durable Construction Built for rugged field environments as well as controlled laboratory conditions — our launch boxes are housed in protective enclosures that resist physical damage, moisture, and temperature extremes encountered during field testing operations.
Benefits of Using a Fiber Launch Box
Enhanced OTDR Accuracy
By creating a stable fiber extension before the fiber under test, the launch box eliminates measurement uncertainty caused by the OTDR's dead zone — allowing accurate characterization of every splice, connector, and fault from the very start of the fiber span.
Simplified Installation & Maintenance
Clear, consistent OTDR traces make the installation, troubleshooting, and ongoing maintenance of fiber optic networks significantly easier — reducing the time required to locate and diagnose faults in the field.
Cost-Effective Testing
Reduce costly retesting caused by inaccurate or inconclusive OTDR results. A high-quality launch box pays for itself quickly by delivering reliable, actionable test data on the first pass — minimizing truck rolls and field labor hours.
Ordering Information
Use the part number key below to configure your Fiber Launch Box order. Each segment of the part number corresponds to a specific product attribute.
| IFO | LB | SM | Connector Code | Length Code | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iFiber Optix | Launch Box | Single-Mode | SCLC = SC/UPC – LC/UPC SCALC = SC/APC – LC/UPC SCASCA = SC/APC – SC/APC SCSC = SC/UPC – SC/UPC SCFC = SC/UPC – FC/UPC SCASC = SC/APC – SC/UPC | 100 = 100 Meters 150 = 150 Meters 300 = 300 Meters 500 = 500 Meters 1000 = 1000 Meters | M = Meters |
Order Your Fiber Launch Box
Ready to achieve more accurate OTDR testing? Contact our team to discuss your specific length and connector requirements, or request a quote for your fiber optic testing needs.