Dry Cell A-M70 VFL Visual Fault Locator & OPM Portable Fiber Tester

Our review of the Dry Cell A-M70 finds a compact, multifunctional tester aimed at field technicians who need a single handheld unit for fiber inspection and basic network checks. The bottom line: this device combines a visible fault locator and an optical power meter with RJ45 network testing in one rugged package, offering stable measurements and fast readings without warm up, which makes it a useful day-to-day tool for installers and maintenance techs.

Key Features

• VFL plus OPM: The integrated visual fault locator and optical power meter allow technicians to both locate breaks visually and measure power with the same handheld instrument.
• Wide wavelength support: The power meter supports a range of standard wavelengths including 850, 980, 1270, 1300, 1310, 1490, 1550, 1577, 1625 and 1650nm for compatibility with common fiber systems.
• Good stability: Built with a sensitive chip and sturdy internal structure, the unit delivers reliable operation and stable readings in everyday field use.
• Broad measurement range: The meter covers a working power range from 70 to +10dBm so it can handle both low-power and stronger signals encountered in fiber links.
• Fast, accurate readings: The instrument supports fast measurement without warm up, plus relative power calculation and self calibration for practical, repeatable results.
• Multi-connector support: Comes with FC/SC/ST compatibility and an FC to LC adapter for use across common connector types in the field.

Who It's For

The A-M70 is best for field technicians, network installers, and maintenance staff who need a compact, all-in-one tester that covers visual fault location, optical power measurement and basic RJ45 checks. Its rugged design and quick-read capability suit day-to-day troubleshooting on fiber links and short installation jobs.

It is less aimed at lab engineers who require precision laboratory instruments or advanced OTDR features; users needing in-depth link characterization or long-range fault location should look to dedicated OTDR units instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Combines VFL and OPM functions in one handheld tool for convenient field use.
• Supports a wide set of wavelengths and standard connector types for broad compatibility.
• Stable and fast measurements without warm up, with relative power and self calibration features.

Cons

• Not a replacement for an OTDR when detailed loss traces or long distance fault location are required.

Specifications

Product Type	VFL Visual Fault Locator with Optical Power Meter
Power Measurement Range	70 to +10dBm
Supported Wavelengths	850, 980, 1270, 1300, 1310, 1490, 1550, 1577, 1625, 1650nm
Connector Compatibility	FC, SC, ST plus FC to LC adapter included
Key Features	VFL, RJ45 network testing, relative power calculation, self calibration
Measurement Accuracy	High accuracy, error less than 0.2dB

Our Verdict

The Dry Cell A-M70 is a practical, good-value handheld tester for technicians who need stable, quick fiber measurements and basic network testing in the field. It is especially useful where portability and multi-function capability reduce the need to carry separate tools, though users needing advanced fiber characterization should consider a dedicated OTDR.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this unit support multiple connector types?
Yes. It works with FC, SC and ST connectors and includes an FC to LC adapter for broader compatibility.

Is the power meter ready to use immediately?
The meter supports fast measurement without a warm up period and includes self calibration for quick, reliable readings.

Can this replace an OTDR for long-distance faults?
No. The A-M70 is designed for visual fault location and power measurements; it does not provide the detailed distance and trace information of an OTDR.