Hollow Core Fiber (HCF) Testing

Hollow Core Fiber Testing Solutions  

As hyperscale operators and data center owners push the boundaries of network performance, hollow core fiber (HCF) is emerging as the ultimate enabler, delivering ultra-low latency and low loss links for high-speed and data center interconnects. But with innovation comes complexity, and deploying this breakthrough technology brings new unique challenges: complex fiber structures, specialized testing, and the need for flawless performance from day one.  

Meeting the Challenge of Hollow Core Fiber Deployment 

Unlike conventional solid-core fiber, hollow core design introduces unique characteristics.  Its air-guided design reduces latency and signal distortion but introduces new variables in splice integrity, bend sensitivity, optical losses, transmission bands, and testing tools. 

• Mechanical and physical constraints: HCF manufacturing is intricate and the new structures can make fibers more mechanically sensitive to macrobends than standard single mode fibers.
• Higher Costs: Advanced production techniques, splicing, handling, and routing requirements increase deployment costs.
• Limited Bandwidth in Some Designs: Certain HCF types may have restricted spectral ranges.
• Testing Complexity: Traditional OTDR and OTDR based dispersion analyzers often fail to deliver accurate results or only cover short distances for HCF due to its unique optical properties.
• Need for Specialized Tools: Accurate characterization requires advanced OTDR, non-OTDR based CD/PMD/AP measurement, and connector inspection solutions. 

Why Testing Matters More Than Ever  

Existing test solutions and methods aren’t obsolete but need to be enhanced and tools with the right performance selected. Accurate certification of HCF links requires specialized OTDR configuration and performance, with different bidirectional analysis than single mode fiber to ensure precise splice and fiber loss measurements, and overall link integrity. Accurate link characterization from day one is essential to guarantee performance, minimize rework, protect ROI, and meet the demanding requirements of 400G, 800G, and beyond. Without this, operators risk performance gaps that can impact mission-critical applications. Click here to learn more about Hollow Core Fiber testing   

The VIAVI Advantage 

With decades of optical test leadership, VIAVI delivers the industry’s most comprehensive suite of hollow core fiber testing solutions. Our portfolio combines precision measurement, intuitive workflows, and automation to simplify every phase of the HCF lifecycle—from install certification to troubleshooting and long-term monitoring. Key capabilities include: 

• High Performance OTDR optimized for hollow core fiber characterization
• Advanced Dispersion Analysis (CD, PMD, AP) (non-OTDR based) for short, medium, and long-distance links
• Automated Fiber Inspection to eliminate contamination risks and ensure connector integrity.
• Service Activation Testing and Monitoring to validate performance under live traffic conditions.
• Cloud-Enabled Reporting and Process Automation for real-time project tracking and compliance. From installation to long-term monitoring, VIAVI helps manufacturers, data center interconnect operators, and contractors to deploy hollow core fiber with confidence, reducing rework, and safeguarding investments.