Optical power meters, attenuators, light sources

Acterna optical handheld testers

Maximizing return on investment and Keeping operating costs down

Acterna has been a pioneer in optical handheld instrumentation for more than 20 years with products which are recognized worldwide for their quality, reliability, ease of use and low cost of ownership. Acterna's range of handheld field test kits and instruments is designed for accuracy where it counts out in the field. All the Acterna fiber optic handheld testers are calibrated to traceable national standards, with a re-calibration interval of three years, for long-term, cost-effective reliability. The rugged, shock resistant and splash proof design protects the instruments against damage in the field and is designed to withstand even the harshest treatment. Operating costs are reduced through the use of universally available standard AA mignon batteries (dry cells or re-chargeable) for up to 130 hours operating time. Battery replacement in the field is quick and easy. The intuitive graphical user interface ensures that all the instruments are easy to use without the need for lengthy training.

Speeding-up the test process

The Acterna TWINtest feature doubles the measuring speed for dual-wavelength tests. Light source and optical power meter synchronize automatically and loss test results for both wavelengths are displayed on the power meter. The Auto-lambda mode sets and detects the wavelength automatically, preventing the possibility of measurement errors caused by incorrect settings.

Meeting test needs today and tomorrow

Acterna's comprehensive range of handheld instruments and accessories offers a complete solution for optical field test. The range includes light sources, power meters, attenuators and complete test kits for every application from laboratory testing to commissioning and service. A range of accessories including adapters, cleaning tools and inspection microscopes is also available.

OMK-9 three wavelengths loss test kit provides a complete solution for installers and service providers who need to test single-mode fibers at wavelengths 1310, 1550 and 1625 nm.

From physical layer test to system commissioning

Productivity is increasingly an issue in installation and maintenance of fiber optic networks. Speed and efficiency in the field is key to maintaining quality of service. That is why, for installers and operators worldwide, Acterna handhelds are the instruments of choice. The range includes instruments and accessories for testing single mode and multi-mode fibers in datacom and telecom networks. High power meters are ideal for dense wave division multiplexing (DWDM) systems and for CATV applications. Sensitive versions of the instruments detect extremely low power and long distance loss test. Handy pocket-sized versions are ideal for everyday tasks. High performance models offer additional features for more demanding applications. Universal battery supply Acterna handheld instruments use standard AA mignon batteries dry cells or re-chargeable for up to 130 hours operating time. Battery replacement in the field is quick and easy. Windows-based software allows Acterna's high performance handheld instruments to be controlled remotely, via the RS232 interface. Test results can be transferred for analysis and reporting. Data logging parameters, including interval settings, thresholds and start/stop can be set remotely.

Acterna's high performance series

Acterna's high performance handheld instruments combine high functionality with straightforward operation and compact design. The series offers a wide dynamic range, coupled with laboratory accuracy for reliable measurement time after time. Automated test procedures, data logging, and PC-analysis software ensure high productivity for field test and office-based analysis of results.

OMK-19c high performance test kit offers high power testing up-to 30 dBm for installation and servicing of DWDM, CATV/multimedia and telecom systems.

Acterna's pocket-sized series

Acterna's pocket-sized handhelds provide high accuracy measurement in a simple, entry-level unit at an attractive price. Just 3.9 inches long, these handy instruments provide all the basic functionality needed for fiber optic power and loss testing. Straight-forward three-button operation and rugged design make them ideal for a wide range of installation and maintenance applications.

Innovation by design
Performing tests in the field can be tricky. Technicians may need to work in inclement weather or other difficult conditions while being pressured for time especially in repair work or where schedules are tight. Innovative measurement features, designed to help preserve the integrity of the field test procedures and speed the process, differentiate the Acterna range. Rugged design, built-in shock absorbers, and a lengthy battery life ensure long-term reliability.

Acterna's universal push pull adapter system matches all common connector types

OMK-6 is an optical test kit including handy pocket sized instruments for use anywhere as an everyday tool. It is easy to use and is ideal for a wide range of single mode universal telecom applications

OLC-65 the new premium class of optical handhelds

The Optical Level controller OLC-65 is part of a new generation of fiber optic testers. As industries first instrument it combines an optical power meter and a motor driven optical attenuator in one compact handheld housing. Together with a powerful controller and its remote capabilities the OLC-65 offers a whole range of applications for maintenance and system verification tests. Standard power meter 80 dB dynamic In-line power meter in service power control Level Actenuator set output power level instead of set attenuation Standard Attenuator simulate link loss margin tests Level Controller active stabilization of drifting input power
Showing different operation modes of OLC-65

Optical Tx Test Pattern

Rx Under Test

ONT-50 OTN Module 2.5/2.7G FEC

OLC-65

Electrical Rx

General test setup for receiver sensitivity testing

Optical power meters Requirements for standard, all-haul and high power applications
Measurement sensitivity Secondary to wavelength range, measuring range is often a deciding factor when purchasing an optical power meter. Sensitivity is an important criterion for measurements at the end of the fiber link, where very low levels need to be recorded. However, measurement sensitivity should always be seen in connection with the uncertainties allowed for the power meter at these points. This is often impossible if only the `good' calibration error is specified. For measurements at the start of the fiber link or directly downstream of an optical amplifier, it is essential for the photodiode to be designed to withstand the high optical power levels. Since the ambient conditions normally vary during operation, temperature sensitivity plays an important role. The internal resistance of the photodiode is reduced as the ambient temperature rises. This leads to parasitic currents (dark current), which mutilate the actual signal. At the same time, no benefit can be gained from a high internal resistance in the photodiode if, parallel to this diode resistance, the surface resistance of the printed circuit board drops to a critical value as a result of moisture. The area around the input amplifier thus needs special protection. This is the only way to ensure that very low levels down to approximately 80 dBm can be recorded reliably in the long term. Acterna's experience is a guarantee for mature and reliable designs. An alignment procedure (zeroing) can be carried out if required, in order to reduce the dark current to a minimum. This is particularly advisable if low levels have to be measured at widely fluctuating temperatures. Reference measurement and measurement accuracy The power meters must be calibrated at the standard wavelengths, in order to ensure that the measurements are comparable and repeatable. This is handled by the manufacturer with the aid of a reference standard. A very accurately specified optical level can be derived from the national standard thanks to the traceability of the measurements. Accuracies of +3% (+0.13 dB) can be achieved for optical power meters in this way. This value only applies under reference conditions such as level and temperature, and is often cited on the manufacturer's specification sheet. The user, however, measures under a wide range of operating conditions. Characteristic data that covers this complete range is essential.

0.2 dP/dB 0

Sl (A/W) 1.0

= Values stored in the EPROM of the power meter InGaAs Si GE (23C) GE (0C)

0.2

0.5

0.4

60 23C

40 45C

20

0 Power/dBm

20

850

1300

1550

l (nm)

Figure 2: Spectral characteristic of detectors Photodiodes are used for conversion. They have different spectral characteristics, depending on the type of semiconductor. Silicon (Si) can only be used in the first optical window. Germanium (Ge) and indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) diodes, on the other hand, are also suitable for broadband signaling in the second and third optical window, where their sensitivity is greatest. Ge diodes, which are used as a low-cost variant in all three windows, are the most sensitive to temperature. Choosing the correct wavelength and a sufficiently large dynamic range for the optical laser source and receiver are crucial to the precision of the measurement results.

Figure 1: Optical power meter linearity alignment Acterna specifies the non-linearities of all optical power meters for the complete measurement range. All the instruments are aligned individually prior to delivery. They also incorporate a ZEROING function (dark current alignment), which ensures that their measurement accuracy remains constant even under extreme temperature conditions.

Spectral characteristics of detectors Power meters for datacom and telecom applications all use photodiodes for light to current conversion. They have different spectral characteristics, depending on the type of semiconductor. Silicon (Si) can only be used in the first optical window up to 1000 nm, whereas Germanium (Ge) and Indium Gallium Arsenide (InGaAs) diodes are suitable for broadband detection in the second and third optical windows up to 1700 nm, where their sensitivity is greatest. Ge diodes are the best compromise for standard applications as they cover a broad spectral range, are quite sensitive, and competitively priced. InGaAs photodiodes are more expensive but offer superior performance particularly at higher wavelengths (41500 nm).

All photodiodes are wavelength dependant so it is essential to verify the meter is set to the correct system wavelength according to factory calibration. With an Acterna test source, wavelength setting is simple. The source sends out an identification signal which is received by the meter and processed to set the right wavelength correction (Auto-Lambda mode). One frequently overlooked aspect of optical power measurements is the fact that the device under test (DUT) may deviate from its nominal wavelength. Consequently, measurement errors are relevant not only at the standard wavelengths, but also within windows of +20 nm, for example.

High power measurement on systems with optical amplifiers (DWDM, CATV) Power meters used for measurements on these systems must be capable of processing high input levels. Power meters for high levels must be designed for reliable long term operation. It is important to note that +30 dBm represents a power of one Watt which also creates a challenge with respect to heat sinking. As a result, over sensitive instruments can be damaged beyond repair. Launching without multiple reflections The test adapters of Acterna's optical power meters are based on the common `fiber-air-sensor interface' principle. A reflection trap in the adapter of the power meter prevents possible multiple reflections between the reflective plug end surface and the photodiode from falsifying measurement results. Constant measurement accuracy is thus guaranteed, regardless of the reflectivity of the plug end surface (material, surface quality).

Without a reflection trap, reflected light components are measured repeatedly

If a reflection trap is used, the diode measures the exact light component

Figure 3a: Launching without multiple reflections

Figure 3b: Launching with multiple reflections

The test adapters of optical power meters from Acterna are based on the common fiber-air-sensor interface principle. A reflection trap in the adapter of the Acterna power meter prevents possible multiple reflections between the reflective plug end surface and the photodiode from falsifying measurement results. Constant measurement accuracy is thus guaranteed, regardless of the reflectivity of the plug end surface (material, surface quality).

Optical light sources Requirements for measurement applications

Light emitting diodes (LEDs) and laser diodes (LDs) are used as optical sources. Due to their different physical parameters, they also have different coupling methods and applications. LED sources The light of the LED, with its wide, large-area radiation characteristic, is adjusted to the fiber diameter and aligned by means of a microlens bonded inside the casing. The coupling to the measuring or system cable is contactless via an air gap in the connector. The main advantages of LED sources, which are only used in local area network (LAN) installations, are their low production cost, easy alignment to multi-mode fibers and low sensitivity to temperature. Laser sources Compared with LED sources, laser diodes (LDs) have a smaller, lobeshaped radiation profile and a higher output power. They are, however, more sensitive to temperature variations and are particularly suited for single mode fibers, which have a much smaller core than multi-mode fibers. The light is launched by fastening a fiber section directly in front of the laser chip. This process is complex, but guarantees close tolerances. The pigtailed LD-module is connected to the output connector. Thus, easy cleaning of the connector end surfaces is vital. Laser sources offer a sufficiently high output level for the dynamic ranges required in long-haul networks.
Light cone spills over connected fiber Air

N.A.

Fiber

Figure 4a: Indirect coupling to the fiber Indirect coupling via a lens (OLS-5) Usual with LEDs Injected power dependent on numerical aperture (N.A.) of fiber

LD

Figure 4b: Direct coupling to the fiber Direct coupling fiber to fiber, e.g. (OLS-6) Usual with LDs Coupling by physical contact Extremely precise adapter required (tolerance 50.5 mm)

S' 15 to 25 dBm 0 to 10 dBm +5 to 10 dBm

FWHM 100 nm

FWHM 3 nm

5 51 nm

1300 LED

1300 FP Laser Diode (MLM Laser)

1300 DFB Laser Diode (SLM Laser)

l (nm)

Figure 5: Power spectrum of LED and laser sources

Stabilised output level The stability of the source and the deviation of its output level are more important for precise loss tests than the actual power. Since a certain time elapses between the reference measurement and the measurement of the link, the source signal must remain constant. The temperature sensitivity of semiconductor light sources influences both the output power and the nominal wavelength. Lasers are much more sensitive to temperature than LEDs. LED sources are able to manage with a fixed compensation factor for the temperature characteristic, while lasers require optical feedback. Optical sources therefore need an optimized correction principle that also eliminates these influences and ensures a stabilized light over a wide temperature range.

Reproducible fiber coupling Measurement accuracy also depends to a large extent on the reproducibility of the fiber coupling at the source output connector. A rugged mechanical design and casing avoids the possibility of attenuation damage. Acterna's universal adapter system allows the use of different connector types and enables easy access to the internal fiber end for easy cleaning. Dual wavelength operation All Acterna sources incorporate two LED or laser sources, with either two outputs (OLS-6), or one combined output (OLS-5, OLS-15). The single output instruments feature the TWINtest function which allows simultaneous measurements at 1310/1550 nm or 850/1300 nm without having to disconnect and reconnect.

TWINtest TWINtest feature doubles measuring speed for dual-wavelength tests by synchronizing light source and power meter.

OLP detects wavelength transmited from OLS by detecting the modulation frequency which is related to the wavelength used and switches measurement range automatically. Modulation is also used for fiber identification.

OLS

OLP

Figure 6: Laser source with one optical port for dual-wavelength loss test with TWINtest

Loss test
Loss test according to IEC 874-1, method 6

Adapters and Cables

Acterna's universal interchangeable adapter system gives the instruments access to all common fiber optic connectors in the field. Various adapter cables help to connect all the different devices under test.
OLP

OLS

Reference measurement: This reference measurement need only be performed once a day, as the long-term stability of the source and receiver is excellent.

2060 universal test adapters

2014 universal test adapters

OLS

OLP

Insertion loss measurement: The additional losses can be read off on the power meter when the device under test (optical fiber cable) is inserted. Loss test according to IEC 874-1, method 7

2150 universal test adapters

OLS

OLP

Reference measurement (setting the absolute level to 0 dB) similar to method 6 but only one measurement jumper cable used.

OLS

OLP

Loss measurement of connectors: Method 7 is used to measure patch cables from both ends

Fixed Attenuators/Mating sleeves, Single Mode Fixed Attenuators, K30XX, K31XX test and adapter cables

10

Related products

Acterna ONT-30

Acterna OFI-2000

Acterna ACO FBP-S1 Video Inspection Probe System

Acterna MTS-8000

Acterna OVF-1 Pen Sized Visual Fault Locator

Acterna ACO FI-11 Optical Fiber Identifier

11

Acterna handheld fiber optic test instruments

Power meters Wavelengths Pocket-sized OLP-5 820, 850, 1300, 1550 nm OLP-6 780, 850, 1300, 1310, 1550 nm OLP-8 980, 1310, 1480, 1550 nm High performance OLP-15c 780, 850, 1300, 1310, 1550 OLP-16c 850, 1300, 1310, 1480, 1510, 1550, 1625 nm OLP-18c 850, 980, 1310, 1480, 1510, 1550, 1625 nm OLP-30c 850, 980, 1310, 1480, 1510, 1550, 1625 nm Light sources Wavelengths Pocket-sized OLS-5 LED, 850, 1300 nm single port OLS-6 FP-LD, 1310, 1550 nm dual port OLS-6 FP-LD, 1550, 1625 nm dual port High performance OLS-15 FP-LD, 1310, 1550 nm single port Attenuator Wavelength High performance OLA-15b 1310 and 1550 Test kits OMK-5 OMK-6 OMK-7 OMK-9 OMK-14c OMK-15c OMK-18c OMK-19c Instruments OLP-5, OLS-5 OLP-6, OLS-6 OLP-8, OLS-6 OLP-16c, OLS-6 (1310/1550 nm), OLS-6 (1550/1625 nm) OLP-15c, OLS-15 OLP-15c, OLS-15, OLA-15b OLP-18c, OLS-15 OLP-30c, OLS-15, OLA-15b Dynamic range -60 to +5 dBm -65 to +10 dBm -50 to +23 dBm -70 to +20 dBm -80 to +15 dBm -60 to +26 dBm -55 to +30 dBm Application datacom multi and single mode universal Telecom multimedia/CATV and DWDM universal Telecom ultra sensitive power measurement multimedia/CATV and DWDM ultra high power measurement in multimedia/CATV and DWDM Application datacom mult-imode loss test universal single mode loss test 1625 nm loss test, DWDM C+L universal single mode loss test Application system test for dynamics and margin Application Datacom multi-mode Telecom multimedia/CATV and DWDM universal loss test (three wavelengths) universal Telecom universal Telecom including system test multimedia/CATV and DWDM multimedia/CATV and DWDM including ultra high power measurement and system test universal Telecom including system test

Output power -17dBm (62.5/125) -7 dBm (9/125) -7 dBm (9/125) -7 dBm (9/125) Range 3 to 60 dB Range for loss test 43 dB (62.5/125) 58 dB (9/125) 43 dB (9/125) 73 dB (9/125) 63 dB 63 dB 53 dB 48 dB

Acterna AdvantageSM adding value with global services and solutions From basic instrument support for your field technicians to management of complex, company-wide initiatives, Acterna's service professionals are committed to helping you maximize your return on investment. Whatever your needs product support, system management, education solutions, tailored test & measurement solutions or refurbished equipment we offer programs that will give you the competitive edge. To learn more about how Acterna can help your business be more successful, visit the services section on your local web page at www.acterna.com. Acterna is the world's largest provider of communications test solutions for telecommunications and cable network operators. A trusted communications test partner for more than eight decades, Acterna offers an unmatched portfolio of awardwinning instruments, systems, software and services that help its customers reduce network costs while improving performance and reliability. Headquartered in Germantown, Maryland, USA with European and Asia-Pacific operations based in Eningen, Germany and Hong Kong Acterna serves nearly every major communications service provider and equipment manufacturer around the world through a skilled sales and support organization in 31 countries.

OMK-30

OLC-65, OLS-15

53 dB

Worldwide Headquarters One Milestone Center Court Germantown, Maryland 20876-7100 USA Acterna is present in more than 80 countries. To find your local sales office go to: www.acterna.com

Regional Sales Headquarters North America One Milestone Center Court Germantown, Maryland 20876-7100 USA Toll Free: 1 866 ACTERNA Toll Free: 1 866 228 3762 Tel: +1 301 353 1560 x 2850 Fax: +1 301 353 9216 Latin America Acterna do Brasil Ltda. Av. Eng. Luis Carlos Berrini 936 9th Floor 04571-000 So Paulo SP-Brazil Tel: +55 11 5503 3800 Fax: +55 11 5505 1598 Asia Pacific Acterna Hong Kong Ltd. Room 4010, 40th Floor China Resources Building 26 Harbour Road Wanchai Hong Kong Tel: +852 2892 0990 Fax: +852 2892 0770 Western Europe Acterna Germany GmbH Mhleweg 5 72800 Eningen u.A. Germany Tel: +49 7121 86 2222 Fax: +49 7121 86 1222 Eastern Europe, Middle East & Africa Acterna Austria GmbH Aredstrasse 16-18 A-2544 Leobersdorf Tel: +43 2256 65610 Fax: +43 2256 65610-22 Acterna Moscow Prospect Mira, 26, stroenie 5 RF-129090 Moscow Tel: +7 095 937 88 04 Fax: +7 095 775 26 05 Copyright 2004 Acterna, LLC. All rights reserved. Acterna, Communications Test and Management Solutions, and its logo are trademarks of Acterna, LLC. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Major Acterna operations sites are IS0 9001 registered. Note: Specifications, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice.

OMK/BR/FOP/04-04/AE