Softing CableMaster VFL
Compact visual fault location for singlemode and multimode fibre links.
Compact Class 2 red-light visual fault locator for fibre continuity, polarity checks and visible fault location over distances of more than 5 km in suitable conditions.
What is Softing CableMaster VFL and when should you use it?
Softing CableMaster VFL is a visual fault locator that injects visible red light into optical fibre to help identify continuity, breaks, severe bends and fibre routing. A VFL is a quick diagnostic aid and does not replace optical loss testing or OTDR analysis where measured performance or event detail is required.
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Key Features
Applications
Standards
Technical Specifications
Variants / Configurations
Training Available
Fibre Optics Training UK can provide practical training around Softing CableMaster VFL, including safe VFL use, fibre identification, continuity checks, bend/break location and how VFL results fit with other fibre test methods. 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 VFL.
FAQs
What is Softing CableMaster VFL used for?
Softing CableMaster VFL is a visual fault locator that injects visible red light into optical fibre to help identify continuity, breaks, severe bends and fibre routing. A VFL is a quick diagnostic aid and does not replace optical loss testing or OTDR analysis where measured performance or event detail is required.
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.
Softing CableMaster VFL
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