Today, fiber-optic networks form the foundation of modern communications infrastructure and their operators face the ongoing challenge of detecting and locating faults in the optical fibers as quickly as possible. Continuous, spatially resolved monitoring of the fibers is essential for this. Conventional optical reflectometry methods can achieve this, but they involve significant equipment complexity and associated costs. We are therefore pursuing a novel approach based solely on a single, low-cost laser diode. A concept with the potential to make spatially resolved fiber monitoring significantly more affordable and easier to integrate into existing optical infrastructure.
Tasks
Depending on your interests and focus, the scope of this work may include the following aspects:
- Design and commissioning of an IOFDR measurement system based on an existing laser diode
- Systematic measurement series to characterize spatial resolution, dynamic range, and detection limits
- Investigation of typical fiber faults such as loose connectors, fiber breaks, or points of increased attenuation
- Development and implementation of suitable evaluation algorithms in Python
- Optional focus: Design of a control board for a commercially available SFP module to demonstrate the concept’s transferability to even more compact and cost-effective standard components
- Documentation and scientific interpretation of results
Profile
- Currently pursuing a master’s degree in electrical engineering, physics, mechatronics, or a related field
- Interest in experimental, lab-based research
- Knowledge in at least one of the following areas is desirable:
- Optics / photonics / fiber optics
- High-frequency technology or analog circuit design
- PCB design (schematic and layout)
- Measurement technology and signal processing
- Python or MATLAB programming
- Independent, structured, and reliable work ethic
- Enthusiasm for familiarizing yourself with a new, largely unexplored field
Application If you are interested, please send a brief application with your resume and a short description of your current knowledge and interests to: