Softing CableMaster FO
Compact optical power and attenuation testing with integrated VFL for everyday fibre work.
Pocket-sized optical power meter for power and attenuation measurements with integrated VFL, torch and RJ45 patch lead test.
What is Softing CableMaster FO and when should you use it?
Softing CableMaster FO is a compact optical power and attenuation tester with visual fault location capability. It is useful for power checks, continuity and basic fibre-loss work. For formal Tier 1 certification or Tier 2 event analysis, installers may need an OLTS or OTDR platform instead.
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Key Features
Optical power measurement; Attenuation measurement; Seven supported wavelengths; Integrated visual fault locator; dBm, dB and mW display; RJ45 patch lead test; Torch function; Up to 50 hours battery operation; Universal 2.5 mm / 1.25 mm adaptor.
Applications
Fibre installation; Optical power checks; Attenuation measurement; Polarity and continuity checks; Fault finding; FTTx support; Patch lead testing.
Standards
Suitable for optical power and attenuation measurement workflows across common multimode and singlemode fibre applications.
Technical Specifications
Seven supported wavelengths; Display units: dBm, dB and mW; Integrated VFL; Dimensions: 105 x 65 x 25 mm; Weight with battery: 140 g; Rechargeable 3.7 V Li-ion battery.
Variants / Configurations
Supplied with main unit, rechargeable battery, USB charging cable and universal 2.5 mm to 1.25 mm adaptor.
Training Available
Fibre Optics Training UK can provide practical training around Softing CableMaster FO, including optical power measurement, attenuation/loss checks, reference methods, VFL use and deciding when formal Tier 1 or OTDR testing is required. Training is designed to help engineers understand not only which buttons to press, but what the result means, when the test method is appropriate and when a different verification, qualification or certification tool is required.
Manufacturer-neutral training using leading industry equipment
Fibre Optics Training UK uses equipment from multiple leading manufacturers, including Fluke Networks, Softing, EXFO, VIAVI, Fujikura and INNO. Our training is manufacturer-neutral and standards-led: learners are taught the underlying test method, correct setup, result interpretation and practical workflow so they can work confidently across different platforms rather than being trained around one brand.
Downloads & Resources
Download official Softing datasheets and manuals for the CableMaster FO.
FAQs
What is Softing CableMaster FO used for?
Softing CableMaster FO is a compact optical power and attenuation tester with visual fault location capability. It is useful for power checks, continuity and basic fibre-loss work. For formal Tier 1 certification or Tier 2 event analysis, installers may need an OLTS or OTDR platform instead.
What is the difference between verification, qualification and certification?
Verification checks basic wiring and continuity. Qualification proves whether a link can support a target network application or data rate. Certification measures the parameters required by cabling standards and produces a formal PASS/FAIL result.
How do I know whether this is the right tester for my job?
Choose the instrument based on the evidence the project requires: basic wiremap or continuity, live-network troubleshooting, Ethernet performance qualification, standards-based copper certification, Tier 1 optical loss testing or Tier 2 OTDR analysis.
How does Softing compare with Fluke Networks, TREND Networks and NetAlly?
The brands overlap in several categories but organise their portfolios differently. The right choice depends on whether you need verification, qualification, certification, fibre loss testing, OTDR analysis, PoE diagnostics or live-network troubleshooting. Compare required test standards, speeds, media, reporting workflow and support rather than brand name alone.
Can Fibre Optics Training UK help compare test equipment before purchase?
Yes. We can help identify the test method and equipment category that matches the installation standard, client requirement, network speed and reporting obligation.
Is practical training available?
Yes. Practical training is available on relevant test methods and equipment workflows, including setup, test selection, result interpretation, fault finding and reporting.
Do I need a certifier if I already have a network tester?
Not always. A network tester may be ideal for commissioning and troubleshooting, but if the contract requires standards-based cable certification you need an appropriate certifier capable of producing the required PASS/FAIL evidence.
What should I compare besides the purchase price?
Compare test scope, supported standards and speeds, copper/fibre capability, PoE support, accessories, calibration requirements, reporting software, workflow, warranty/support and the training needed to use the instrument correctly.
What is the difference between Tier 1 and Tier 2 fibre testing?
Tier 1 verifies end-to-end optical loss, length and polarity as required by the test method. Tier 2 uses an OTDR to locate and characterise individual events along the fibre. Inspection should be carried out before connection and test work.
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