Q8384 Optical Spectrum Analyzer
Optical spectrum analyzer for DWDM applications (NOT distributed in North America & Asia.)
Measurement, Characterization and Compliance Testing in the Design and Manufacturing of:
DWDM Transmission Systems DWDM Components Erbium Doped Fiber Amplifiers Narrow-Band Optical Filters like FBG and AWG Laser Diodes
- Optical Spectrum Analysis of WDM Signals
- WDM Channel Analysis
- Amplifier Measurements
- Efficient Transmission/Loss Measurements
- Pulse Measurements
The Q8384 is a high-end optical spectrum analyzer (OSA), performance optimized for the DWDM test market. Equipped with a new multi-pass monochromator, the instrument achieves a resolution bandwidth of 10 pm, a wavelength accuracy of ±20 pm and a dynamic range of 50 dB (±0.1 nm) and 60 dB (±0.2 nm), which enable it to discriminate DWDM channels with 50 GHz spacing or closer in the optical spectrum. The superior resolution of 10 pm enables measurements of modulated light signals with highest fidelity.
The Q8384 can detect peak wavelengths, power levels and signal-to-noise ratios of up to 256 WDM channels. The display shows wavelength and power level measurements as absolute values or as deviations from reference signals. The wavelength display of the Q8384 can also be switched to show optical frequencies.
The instrument enables convenient measurements of gain and noise figure of optical amplifiers. When performing these measurements, the optical input signal of the amplifier is measured and stored as a reference. After connecting the amplifier output to the OSA a single button push displays gain and a high-accuracy noise figure measurement with an uncertainty of ±0.23 dB. Since the Q8384 can adequately separate the ASE level of DWDM channels spaced 50 GHz (0.4 nm), it cannot only perform accurate noise factor measurements but also show multiple measurement results at the same time. The curve fitting method for the noise figure measurement is user selectable.
In conventional transmission/loss measurements for optical filters, it was necessary to measure an external reference signal in advance and then carry out the intended measurements on the real signal under the same conditions. With the Q8384, the user can use the optionally built-in EE-LED as a reference signal. Once the reference signal is measured in a wide wavelength range, a built-in zoom feature allows the user to make transmission and loss measurements while varying the center wavelength and measurement span freely within the wavelength range of the reference signal.
Performing a long-distance transmission experiment using loop tests requires an optical spectrum analyzer with a sweep function triggered by an external gate signal. The Q8384 supports loop tests with its externally synchronized sweep function, enabling it also to measure pulsed light. The instrument can measure very weak signals with a sensitivity of up to -65 dBm.
