Tunable laser source boosts test efficiency in spectral loss measurements
Tunable lasers, in combination with optical power meters and a polarization controller, are used to measure the filter slope, isolation, polarization dependence, insertion loss and reflectivity of multiplexers/demultiplexers, channel interleavers and wavelength-selective switches used in reconfigurable optical fiber networks. The cascading of filter shapes from ROADMs (reconfigurable optical add-drop multiplexers) along the path of today’s fast modulation-broadened signals makes it critical for component manufacturers to comply with nearly ideal channel specifications, leaving little to no room for measurement uncertainty.
The 81606A tunable laser source addresses the needs of optical component makers for more efficient testing and better test margins with significantly enhanced functionality over the current 81600B laser, the industry standard for more than a decade. The tunable laser offers 15 dB more dynamic range through higher signal power with lower spontaneous emission, enabled by the new cavity and laser module design. It provides a 4-fold improvement in absolute accuracy with increased real-time tracking speed and resolution, enabled by the novel wavelength reference unit. Further, the tunable laser source features 40 times faster sweeps without impacting the specified dynamic accuracy, enabled by enhanced feedback controls and drive mechanics.
The 81606A is engineered for the highest reliability and long-term stability. Compatibility with the current 81600B laser commands and N7700A photonic application suite eases transition to the new laser source.
The 81606A is available now in two versions, offering tuning ranges from 1450 nm to 1650 nm (Option 216) and from 1490 nm to 1640 nm (Option 116).
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