Optical spectrum analyser - 8 October 2014 - Protea Electronics-Comms & Measurement Div

The new AQ6370D benchtop optical spectrum analyser, the successor to Yokogawa’s best-selling AQ6370C, incorporates a number of new functions designed to enhance its accuracy and analysis capabilities in the 600 – 1700 nm wavelength range.

Newly added functions include data-logging, gate sampling, resolution calibration, an advanced marker function and an enhanced auto-sweep mode.

The data-logging function records results from WDM analysis (OSNR, optical signal/noise ratio), distributed feedback laser diode (DFB-LD) analysis, and multi-peak measurements at up to 10 000 points per channel with time stamps. Recorded data can be displayed in table and graphical forms. This function is useful for the long-term stability testing and temperature cycle testing of systems and devices. The optical spectrum of each measurement can also be stored for review and troubleshooting.

The advanced marker function adds markers to obtain the power density and the integrated power of a designated spectrum. This new feature makes it easy to get an OSNR value of the signal – whether modulated or not – directly from its spectrum.

The gate sampling function facilitates the recirculating loop testing of optical transmission systems. Using an external gate signal, the AQ6370D obtains the optical spectrum of the signal which is passing through a certain loop. The advantage of this approach is its speed compared with the conventional external trigger or sweep enable function.

The resolution calibration function is used to calibrate the noise equivalent bandwidth with an external light source. With this feature, the measurements of power density of a broad-spectrum light source will be more accurate. The scanning range of the auto sweep mode has been extended in order to support multimode applications.

The instrument is available in standard or high-performance versions. It has a wavelength resolution setting from 0,02 nm to 2 nm, a wavelength accuracy of ±0,02 nm (C+L band), and a maximum level sensitivity of -90 dBm.

The close-in dynamic range is from 70 dB (peak ±1 nm, resolution 0,05 nm) to 50 dB for the high-performance model (peak ±0,1 nm, resolution 0,02 nm). Stray-light suppression ratio is 70 dB or more, and sweep time is within 0,2 seconds for 100 nm wavelength span.

For more information contact Trevor Grundlingh, Protea Electronics, +27 (0)11 719 5700, trevorg@protea.co.za, www.protea.co.za