As data centers scale and broadband networks evolve toward higher split ratios and denser fiber architectures, the demand for faster, more accurate fiber testing has never been greater. Addressing this need head-on, AFL, a global leader in fiber optic cables, connectivity, and test equipment, has announced significant advancements to its Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) product portfolio—delivering substantial gains in performance, speed, and usability.
These next-generation OTDR solutions are purpose-built to support modern data center infrastructure, broadband network testing, and Passive Optical Network (PON) certification, reinforcing AFL’s position at the forefront of fiber test and measurement innovation.
Raising the Bar for OTDR Performance
Already recognized for offering some of the most compact, fastest, and user-friendly OTDRs in the industry, AFL’s latest product introductions further enhance value for network operators, contractors, and service providers. The updates focus on reducing test times, increasing dynamic range, and simplifying testing across ultra-high fiber-count environments.
The new lineup includes enhancements to the FlexScan® FS300-HDR series and upgrades to the widely adopted FS200 Series OTDRs—each addressing distinct yet critical testing challenges.
FlexScan® FS300-HDR Series: Built for Tomorrow’s Networks
The FS300-HDR series represents a major step forward in fiber optic testing for data centers and broadband networks. Engineered for both current and future network architectures, the platform delivers higher dynamic ranges, faster acquisition times, and advanced certification capabilities—while remaining accessible to technicians of all experience levels.
Key FS300-HDR Models
FlexScan FS300-323 (1310/1550/1625)
Designed for comprehensive PON validation, this model supports testing up to 1:128 split ratios with exceptionally low PON dead zones of just 10 meters, making it ideal for long-haul and high-split broadband applications.
FlexScan FS300-320 (1310/1550)
Purpose-built for ultra-high fiber-count networks, the FS300-320 addresses one of the most time-intensive challenges in data center testing. It dramatically reduces Tier II testing times—from hours to minutes—when validating cables containing thousands of fibers.
According to Arun Jain, Director of Product and Marketing at AFL, the impact is tangible: in a real-world test of a 5,000-foot, 1,728-fiber cable, the FS300-HDR completed testing in under 30 minutes, compared to nearly 20 hours using traditional OTDRs. Multifiber test times can be reduced to under one second per fiber, making it a leading solution for data center and data center interconnect (DCI) environments.
FS200 Series OTDRs: Proven Reliability, Now Even More Powerful
Building on the success of AFL’s most popular OTDR platform, the FS200-100 now features an increased dynamic range of 39/37 dB, enabling reliable testing of PON networks with split ratios up to 1:64.
Already approved by major service providers worldwide, the enhanced FS200-100 offers an economical and dependable solution for broadband operators who require consistent, standards-compliant testing without added complexity.
Together, the FS200 and FS300-HDR product families provide scalable OTDR solutions tailored to a wide range of fiber network testing scenarios—from cost-efficient PON validation to high-performance data center deployments.
Designed for Flexibility and Real-World Deployment
Both OTDR series are available in multiple configurations to accommodate diverse network requirements, ensuring operators can select the right tool for their specific environment. Whether validating next-generation broadband rollouts or accelerating data center commissioning, AFL’s OTDR solutions are designed to deliver speed, accuracy, and long-term value.
About AFL
Founded in 1984, AFL is a global manufacturer providing end-to-end solutions to the broadband, energy, data center, AI and industrial markets. With products in over 130 countries, AFL specializes in fiber optic cable and hardware, transmission/compression and substation accessories, connectivity solutions, fusion splicers, and test and inspection equipment. Guided by customer-focused and community-centered values and a strong commitment to safety, the company operates manufacturing facilities worldwide and provides a comprehensive portfolio of services and solutions supporting network infrastructure, data centers, service providers, wireless and power grid modernization.
