ECOC 2002 showcase
SYSTEMS
FSO transceiverAbout the size of a "slightly deflated basketball," the Elliptica free-space-optic transceiver sends and receives an invisible, eye-safe beam of light-the same wavelength of a fiber-optic cable-to connect businesses and buildings to fiber. Calling it "fiber optics without the fiber," the company uses its Fiberless Optics technology to extend internal corporate networks to other locations and extend the reach of existing fiber infrastructures. The transceiver can be mounted inside an office next to a window, outdoors, or on a rooftop. Full installation, management, and monitoring services are available.Terabeam, Kirkland, WA FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 300 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
EPON access systemThe Salira 2000 Platform intelligent Ethernet passive-optical-network access system, designed for the rigorous requirements service providers face in providing network services to businesses, delivers traditional TDM and future-oriented IP-based broadband services over a point-to-multipoint network. It consists of the Salira 2500 high-density optical line terminal and Salira 2300 multicustomer optical-network unit. The platform is driven by the company's Access Operating System, which enables value-added services like native-mode TDM, real time dynamic bandwidth allocation, and customized service-level agreements at the port level. It is provisioned and managed by the company's Access Management System.Salira Optical Network Systems Inc., Santa Clara, CA FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 301 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Photonic-network solution The AgileCore core photonic-networking solution set easily adapts to unforecasted demand resulting from either a wavelength service or underlying infrastructure, reduces time-to-service, and allows carriers to scale network bandwidth. With base technology such as tunable filters, tunable ULR lasers, and photonic switching, the solution set includes a transparent photonic switch, dynamic line system, tunable photonic gateway, network operating system, management system, and planning and engineering center to "automate" the core. According to the company, AgileCore eliminates wavelength engineering and replaces lengthy engineering cycles with point-and-click provisioning. It delivers dynamic wavelength assignment, A-Z, without the need for intermediate optical-electrical-optical conversions.Innovance Networks, Piscataway, NJ FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 302 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Add/drop switchThe 7200 OADX integrates optical switching and transmission within a single unit, delivering carriers immediate reductions in space and network complexity. The optical add/drop switch is a wavelength-transparent solution (bit-rate- and protocol-independent), with excellent performance monitoring and network management. It allows existing services to grow while enabling transparent wavelength services.Meriton Networks, Ottawa, Ontario FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 303 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Multifunction systemCityStream 5000 combines the functions of an ATM service access multiplexer, an ATM switch, a wideband TDM crossconnect, and an add/drop multiplexer. The latest version of CityStream supports ATM services-CBR, UBR, and VBRrt (constant, unspecified, and real time variable bit rates, respectively)-and can support any combination of clear-channel DS-3, channelized DS-3, and ATM DS-3 in the same multiport DS-3 module. CityStream's VT or wideband crossconnect functionality allows carriers to push switching and grooming closer to the edge, while reducing floor space and power requirements.Metro Optix Inc., Allen, TX FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 304 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Digital technology
Digital Light Processing (DLP) technology is a display solution that uses an optical semiconductor to manipulate light digitally. Comprising digital micromirror devices, control ASICs, and component sets and software, DLP technology is used wherever visual excellence is required. It enables movie projectors, televisions, home-theater systems, and business projectors to create an entirely digital connection between a graphic or video source and the screen, resulting in excellent picture clarity, brilliance, and color.
Texas Instruments, Freising, Germany FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 305 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Dynamic gain equalizerThe SLM 2200 state-of-the-art dynamic gain equalizer for DWDM systems provides high resolution and accurate attenuation, enabling systems providers to flatten the spectrum with extremely low residual ripple. Equalization is done in a spectrally continuous fashion, so the SLM 2200 is completely independent of channel spacing. The system is based on the company's Grating Light Valve optical micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) technology.Silicon Light Machines, Sunnyvale, CA FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 306 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Mux/demux modulesPolarModule variable mux/demux modules (VMux) are intelligent optical subsystems for integrated signal power control and multiplexing/ demultiplexing. Developed through integration of the company's proprietary free-space diffraction grating and high-density liquid-crystal arrays, the modules provide individual-channel optical power control, while multiplexing or demultiplexing optical channels. Designed for channel equalization and pre-emphasis, they are available at 50-, 100- and 200-GHz channel spacings with 16-64 channels per module, providing a flexible growth platform for futureproofing systems. Interface with overall system control algorithms is done via a memory-mapped 16-bit dual-port RAM.Chorum Technologies, Richardson, TX FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 307 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Gain equalization monitor
The GEM gain equalization monitor accurately measures optical power and wavelength for DWDM networks requiring remote monitoring. It is a small optical monitor at about 120x82x17.3 mm, and its RS-232 and DPRAM electrical interface ease integration with systems. Response time is <150 msec and relative power accuracy is 0.5 dB for such applications as gain equalization at amplification nodes, signal power, wavelength identification and equalization after add/drop nodes, and fault localization. GEM covers the entire C- or L-band at 100- and 50-GHz wavelength spacing.
JDS Uniphase Corp., San Jose, CA FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 308 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Tunable transmitterMetroFlex G2 Series Tunable Optical Transmitter is designed for remote configuration and sparing applications in the metro, delivering wide tuning (C- or L-bands) in a small, reliable 2x3-inch (5x7.5-cm) package. The transmitter incorporates the company's directly modulated VCSEL-based tunable-laser, wavelength-locking technology, and optional gain within a single integrated package. It offers fast, continuous tuning over 20 100-GHz (or 40 50-GHz) ITU channels, direct modulation from OC-3 through OC-48, and >1-mW (0-dBm) modulated output power.Bandwidth9 Inc., Fremont, CA FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 309 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Multichannel compensatorMultichannel Tunable Dispersion Compensator is a complex chirped fiber Bragg grating (FBG) that allows the compensation of many channels. The compensator can be inserted in a tunable device to dynamically tune the multichannel dispersion while adjusting the dispersion slope of any type of fiber. The low insertion loss of the FBG technology, combined with a compact tuning device (137x17x12 mm), makes this technology especially suited for sub-band management.TeraXion, Sainte-Foy (P.Q.), Canada FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 310 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Channel monitorA small, highly sensitive monitor for 16-channel 100-GHz systems, the optical-channel monitor is especially suited for variable optical attenuator and amplifier power feedback requirements. The unit incorporates electronics and photonics in the same package. It has 16 voltage outputs corresponding to each monitored channel and can be easily customized for other channel configurations.Lumenon Innovative Lightwave Technology Inc., Montreal FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 311 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Conversion receptaclesThe LGC-A600 Series conversion receptacle is capable of interfacing between MU-type plugs and SC-type receptacles. The split sleeve for conversion consists of phosphor bronze. Stable optical characteristics are obtained.Honda Tsushin Kogyo Co. Ltd., Tokyo FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 312 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
PM connectors, patch cordsThe singlemode (SM) and polarization maintaining (PM) connectors and patch cords have ultra, super-angled FC/PC and SC terminations for 80-micron cladding fibers. The connectors offer high polarization extinction ratios (23 dB), low backreflection (-60 to -50 dB), and low insertion losses (0.6-0.4 dB), using 1550-nm SM fiber. The PM ferrules have tight machine tolerances between the ferrule notch and notch key to minimize backlash and rotational errors during the PM axis alignment. The patch cords are available unaligned and rotatable or prealigned and referenced against the connector key for optimum coupling efficiency and extinction ratios.OZ Optics Ltd., Ottawa, Ontario FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 313 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Fiber-optic patch cords
The fiber-optic patch cords, featuring low insertion loss and high return loss, are suitable for all fiber-optic interconnect applications, including cable TV and broadband. The small-form connectors' 900-micron Hytrel patch cords are specifically designed for active-component pigtails. Connector types available are LC, MU, MT-RJ, SC, FC, and ST in singlemode and multimode.
Pacific Interconnection Co., Renton, WA FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 314 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
SFP transceiversThe small-form-factor pluggable (SFP) optical transceivers include various models for distances ranging from 2 to 80 km, with a choice of both single-channel and CWDM transceivers, allowing multi-different channels to be aggregated into one fiber. The 2.5-Gbit/sec, 1.25-Gbit/sec, and 155-Mbit/sec transceivers are hot-pluggable, allowing systems to be maintained and upgraded and ensuring low EMI emissions.RiteKom Photonics Corp., ChuDung Hsinchu, Taiwan FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 316 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Fiber-amplifier gain blockScorpion Gainlet MMP-7010 is an erbium-doped micro-fiber-amplifier gain block, incorporating the company's Erbium Micro Fiber. The telecom-grade Spectra-Physics TE-cooled multimode laser pumps the erbium-doped micro fiber, providing 10-dB gain across the C-band. Gain block features include a highly integrated, customizable gain element; variable fiber length connecting the pump/coupler module and gain element; and Telcordia GR-1312 compliance.NP Photonics Inc., Tucson, AZ FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 317 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Electrically tunable VOAThe MagLight electrically tunable variable optical attenuator (EVOA) is all-solid-state, has no moving parts, and caters to the requirements of erbium-doped fiber-amplifier, VMUX, and smart optical add/drop multiplexing applications. Featuring compact size, fast speed (<300 microsec), and wide dynamic range (0-35 dB), the EVOA can be conveniently packaged into an array with any channel number of choice. It is especially suited for all-optical power control functions in metro networks. Primanex Corp., Fremont, CA FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 318 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Optical-channel performance monitorThe IntelliGuard 160-channel, 50-GHz optical-channel performance monitor (OCPM) offers a wide window for monitoring network health at the optical layer, covering the C- and L-bands simultaneously, and provides rapid channel identification and noninvasive wavelength, power, and optical signal-to-noise-ratio (OSNR) measurements within 25 msec. The OCPM features wide dynamic range (60 dB), excellent OSNR (30 ±1.5 dB), wavelength accuracy of ±15 pm, spectral resolution of 50 pm, and channel power accuracy of ±0.5 dB for both bands. It is athermal, without the need for active temperature control, and designed to comply with Telcordia GR-1209/1221 requirements.BaySpec Inc., Fremont, CA FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 319 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Photonic switchThe 32x32 photonic switch is used in optical crossconnects, reconfigurable optical add/drops, and wavelength-selective crossconnects. The switch's small-form-factor, single 5-V supply and ribbon fiber make it easy to integrate. Featuring low power consumption (500 mW), it is built with two-dimensional micro-electromechanical (MEMS) technology and surpasses Telcordia requirements.OMM Inc., San Diego FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 320 at ww.onlinecenter.to/lw
Dispersion management device The Hi-Mode dispersion management device (DMD) precisely manages chromatic dispersion and dispersion slope for typical transmission fibers in the C- or L-band. Engineered with high-order mode technology, the DMD manages dispersion across the entire operating band, yields low insertion loss, and handles high optical power. The device removes the effects of chromatic dispersion to enable optical networking at 10 and 40 Gbits/sec, with hundreds of channels, over all-optical links extending thousands of kilometers.LaserComm, Plano, TX FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 321 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
10-Gbit/sec transponderThe VIT5000 DWDM transponder with 100-km reach for metro and long-haul markets can be configured for SONET/ SDH at data rates from 9.953 to 10.664 Gbits/sec or 10-Gigabit Ethernet at 10.3 Gbits/sec. For SONET/ SDH applications, it can be used with or without forward error correction systems. It uses a high-power continuous-wave laser with a lithium niobate modulator for extended-reach applications. Output power is adjustable between 0 and 6 dBm. The standards-compliant transponder has an integrated electrical multiplexer/demultiplexer to enable the conversion from parallel electrical signals to serial optical signals and serial optical signals to parallel electrical signals.Vitesse, Camarillo, CA FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 322 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
DWDM mux/demuxThe passive athermal low-insertion-loss diffraction grating-based DWDM multiplexer/demultiplexer does not require active temperature control, with corresponding power, alarms, and monitoring, to maintain performance over temperature ranges as defined within Telcordia requirements. Patented bulk diffraction grating technology provides high channel counts, narrow channel spacing, and low insertion loss in a passive athermal architecture to help optical-network equipment designers reduce power consumption while increasing bandwidth.APA Optics, Blaine, MN FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 323 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
SFF optical transponder The OD-J8666 small-form-factor (SFF) 10-Gbit/sec optical transponder is designed for SONET/SDH intermediate-reach systems up to 40 km. It includes a 1550-nm EML transmitter and high-sensitivity pin-PD receiver and is fully compliant to 300-pin 10-Gbit MSA. The transponder features low power consumption (4 W), compact size (MSA-SFF; 75x55x12 mm), and wide operating case temperature (-5° to +70°C), all of which are useful for downsizing equipment. Standard characteristics include transmitter power up to 2 dBm, receiver sensitivity of -14 dBm, +3.3-, +1.8-, and -5.2-V power supply, and various alarm and monitor functions.NEC Corp., Kanagawa, Japan FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 324 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Butterfly/coaxial pump moduleThe 980-nmLD butterfly/coaxial (coolerless) pump module is based on a weakly index-guided buried stripe structure and surface-coating technology. Accordingly, 98BT (butterfly) and 98CX (coaxial, coolerless) series modules have high kink-free output power and the right amount of pump power stability and reliability. Current pump power is 120-180 mW for butterfly and 90 mW for coolerless. Ultra-high-power butterfly module (320 mW) and coolerless module (130 mW) will be available soon.Mitsubishi Chemical Corp., Tokyo FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 325 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Integrated VOAsThe integrated variable optical attenuators (VOAs) use PLC Mach-Zehnder interferometers with thermo-optic phase-shifters. The VOAs have no mechanical parts, are lightweight and compact, and offer high stability and reliability. Integration is available (up to eight), application to 2x2 switch, and design is customized.Showa Electric Wire & Cable Co. Ltd., Tokyo FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 326 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Variable optical attenuatorThe YS-5000 variable optical attenuator (VOA) features magneto-optical technology, (without moving parts) submillisecond response, analog operations, and high dynamic range. It offers significant packaging improvements, including a 40% reduction in device size (14x37x6 mm), the relocation of all fiber pigtails to one side of the device, and the positioning of electrical pins at the bottom of the housing. The VOA allows for improvements in fiber management and board mounting for better and more compact printed-circuit-board designs.FDK Corp., Tokyo FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 327 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
ReceptaclesWith precise processing technique and press fitting structure, the receptacles can achieve strictly controlled ID tolerance and the high environmental durability required for standard receptacles. High performance of the anti-reflection receptacle is assured with the use of high-quality ferrule and sleeve. The receptacles offer high reliability, reproduction of connection, and availability of very short shape types. For those assembling receptacles, severely controlled ID rigid sleeve and "fiber in ferrule" are available. TOTO Ltd., Tokyo FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 328 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Metal-encased plastic ferruleThe metal-encased plastic ferrule used in fiber-optic connectors ensures stability during the polishing operation. Precise dimensions are assured by using a metal tube, retaining the same outside diameter (2.499 ±0.0005 mm) and concentricity (>0.7 micron) as a traditional zirconia ferrule. Softer materials used in the ferrule reduce the polishing time and will not require expensive diamond-coated polishing materials. Developed in cooperation with Ohashi Technica Inc.Hirose Electric Co. Ltd., Tokyo FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 329 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Dynamic spectral equalizerThe AgileWave dynamic spectral equalizer (DSE) is designed to be a programmable optical filter that can operate with spectral resolutions suitable for tilt, profile, banded, or channel-by-channel gain/power-level balancing. Based on Digital Light Processing technology from Texas Instruments, the device provides fast, dynamic reconfiguration as well as reliability. The DSE offers true, continuous spectral attenuation control with very high spectral resolution and excellent attenuation granularity. Applications include erbium-doped fiber-amplifier and Raman-amplifier gain/shape control and power balancing of added/dropped channels in dynamically routed networks.CiDRA Corp., Wallingford, CT FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 330 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Custom fibersSpecialty fibers can be custom-designed according to customer specifications. The company has collaborated with numerous organizations to provide fibers with specific refractive index profiles, cladding material, dimensions, shapes, and rare-earth dopants. Some features that can be implemented in a custom fiber include Holey fiber design, double-clad structure, and aluminum coatings.INO, Sainte-Foy, Quebec FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 331 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Clock-signal amplifierFiber Optic Clock Driver Amplifier for 10- and 40-Gbit/sec applications uses interchangeable thin-film gallium arsenide FET modules and can be customized to customer needs with short lead times. It amplifies clock signals at any phase and gain to drive a lithium niobate or other optical modulator. Optional internal analog phase-shifters can be used to phase-lock clock signals to data for synchronous transmitters or receiver clock recovery. Optional gain control and power detectors allow for use in closed-loop AGC systems. Standard features include 5-, 10-, 20- and 40-GHz versions, output power to 30 dBm, an output filter, and a single power supply.L3 Communications, Narda Microwave-East, Hauppauge, NY FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 333 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
DPSK demodulatorBased on All-Fiber technology, the differential phase-shift keying (DPSK) demodulator provides excellent optical performance, with delay of 25 or 100 psec, low excess loss, near-zero PDL, and high isolation.ITF Optical Technologies, Montreal FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 332 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
SFP transceiverThe NetLight(r) NLP25 small-form-factor pluggable (SFP) 2.5-Gbit/sec 1310-nm laser transceiver is a high-speed solution for SONET/SDH applications. It does not require soldering to a line card, allowing systems makers the option to "plug in" transceivers based on the speed or distance required as well as upgrade or reconfigure systems over time. The transceiver is packaged in a narrow-width metal housing with an LC duplex receptacle.Agere Systems, Allentown, PA FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 334 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
VCSEL arrays
At 2.5 Gbits/sec per channel, the 850-nm vertical-cavity surface-emitting-laser (VCSEL) arrays support an aggregate data rate of 30 Gbits/sec for easy integration into parallel optical transceivers in very-short-reach, Gigabit Ethernet, and InfiniBand applications. The arrays provide high reliability (well over 3,000 hours 85/85), low threshold current, low-divergence beam, and high power output. Proprietary device design and refined manufacturing process offer "oxide VCSEL-like" performance and "implant VCSEL-like" reliability and yield.
LuxNet Corp., Fremont, CA FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 335 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
DWDM transport processorThe BCM8512 chip is a multiprotocol DWDM transport processor supporting both 10-Gigabit Ethernet (10-GbE) LAN and WAN standards as well as SONET/ SDH protocols. It integrates a G.709 digital wrapper, G.975 forward error correction, an OC-192/STM-64 SONET/SDH performance monitor, a 10-GbE performance monitor, and a 10-Gbit transceiver into a single chip. The highly integrated chip enables manufacturers to develop a single line card supporting multiple network protocols. Target equipment applications are DWDM transport systems, digital crossconnects, and next-generation SONET/ SDH add/drop multiplexers. Broadcom Corp., Irvine, CA FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 336 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
LC connectors
The LC PANDA connector features a cord diameter of 0.4, 0.9, and 2 mm, an insertion loss of 0.5/0.25/0.22 dB, a return loss of 40/50/55 dB, and an extinction ratio of 25/28 dB. Also available are an LC four-port adapter for SC duplex adapter (F) footprint (PB/Zr sleeve); LC duplex adapter for SC simplex adapter footprint (PB/Zr sleeve); LC APC connector for cable TV, etc.; and LC connector kit for a cord diameter of 3 mm.
NTT-ME Corp., Tokyo FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 338 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
40-Gbit/sec LiNbO3 modulator driver
The model 5885 40-Gbit/sec lithium niobate (LiNbO3) modulator driver delivers high-quality, clean, 43-Gbit/sec nonreturn-to-zero eye-diagrams with low jitter. It provides LiNbO3 drive capability with as little as 300 mVpp of input and includes crossing-point control, output-level control, radio-frequency power detection, and temperature-stabilized output. The extremely broadband driver is targeted for the OC-768/STM-256 (40-Gbit/sec) telecommunications market.
Picosecond Pulse Labs, Boulder, CO FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 339 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
1300-nm SOA
The OPB10-1300, a 1300-nm semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA), will be housed in an industry-standard 14-pin butterfly package with integral thermo-electric cooler, thermistor, and input and output isolators. Pinout will be MSA-compliant. The SOA provides a high-gain, high-output-power, low-noise solution to amplification requirements in the 1300-nm window. Applications are likely to include SONET/SDH reach extension (plus emerging standards such as very-short-reach and coarse WDM), passive optical networks, and 10-Gigabit Ethernet.
Kamelian Ltd., Oxford, UK FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 341 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Tunable 10-Gbit/sec transceiverFor metro DWDM systems, the TXN13500 eight-channel (50-GHz spacing) tunable 10-Gbit/sec transceiver incorporates a lithium niobate modulator, a micro controller, a multiplexer/demultiplexer, a CDR, a jitter filter, an APD, and a temperature-tuned distributed-feedback laser into a 4x3.5x0.53-inch form factor. Features include SBS suppression "dithering," multirate capability (SONET/SDH, Ethernet, and forward error corrrection), 80-km reach (1,600-psec/nm dispersion), and output power of -2, 0, or +4.5 dBm (factory-settable). The TXN13500 covers 80 C-band wavelengths with just 10 transceivers, reducing the carrier's need for spares for each and every wavelength. Intel Corp., Santa Clara, CA FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 343 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Instructional video/CD-ROM
A training tool for new staff development, "Introduction to Fiber Optics Video/CD-ROM" provides an understanding of the basics of optical theory and its relationship to optical fibers, teaches fiber-optic terminology, and shows how fiber is being used. It features high-quality graphics, onsite location shots, and close-up filming. Areas covered include optical fiber's evolution, fiber manufacturing, optical theory, and fiber types and structures: 50/125, 62.5/125 multimode fiber (MMF), MMF for Gigabit Ethernet and Fibre Channel, and singlemode fiber (dispersion-shifted, nonzero dispersion-shifted, and DWDM). Issues covered include modal, chromatic, and polarization-mode dispersion; graded and step index fiber structures; and specialty fibers.
The Light Brigade, Kent, WA FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 344 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Interferometer for connectorsThe ZX-1 Array PLUS Zoom interferometer measures the surface topography of both single-fiber and multifiber connectors in either straight or angled configurations. Three-dimensional measurements having subnanometer resolution can be performed in just a few seconds. The fully automated system incorporates computer-controlled auto-focus, auto-nulling, and XYZ motion control of the fiber-optic connector under test. The operator simply inserts the connector and initiates the measurement, usually having no further interaction with the equipment until the measurement is completed. Patented calibration technique permits absolute measurement of the connector endface angle on multifiber ferrules.Direct Optical Research Co. (DORC), Phoenix FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 346 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Multiline OSAThe Hyperfine WDM-enabled multiline optical spectrum analyzer (OSA) enables systems manufacturers and carriers to continuously test and monitor narrow channels with subpicometer resolution. The OSA offers up to 0.4-pm true optical resolution (i.e., no interpolation), continuous and simultaneous measurement of hundreds of frequencies, and no scanning using moving parts. In an example configuration, a two-dimensional 80x80 array (i.e., 6,400 output samples) can be produced using two cross-paired Hyperfine WDM devices. One dimension of the array is a coarse frequency measurement, and the other dimension is a fine frequency measurement. The OSA continuously monitors the wavelengths.Essex Corp., Columbia, MD FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 347 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Swept-wavelength systemOTS9600 Series, a new set of optical test modules in the OTS product family, is a swept-wavelength measurement system that specifically addresses physical layer testing for passive optical components. The series provides excellent wavelength resolution and accuracy (>1 pm) and a very responsive measurement time offering combined performance levels. It uses patent-pending wavelength reference technology, delivers a new set of tunable lasers, and includes an eight-channel power meter. Its swept-wavelength system automatically calibrates before each measurement, eliminating the need for manual calibration and reducing time per test. Tektronix Inc., Beaverton, OR FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 348 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Multilayer test platformThe CMA5000 multilayer-network test platform accelerates the deployment of new services. The modular platform's open architecture design enables networks to be efficiently installed, commissioned, and documented. Its flexibility and scalability allows the platform to evolve with user testing needs and technology for addressing changing telecommunications infrastructures.NetTest, Utica, NY FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 349 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
BER test setsThe AP9950 pulse pattern generator and AP9951 error detector are bit-error-rate test sets for research, development, and manufacturing of up to 44.5-Gbit/sec high-speed devices, optical transmission modules, and transmission systems. These small standalone test systems (approximately 425 mm wide x 221 mm high x 500 mm deep) provide high-quality waveforms and low power consumption and are lightweight (about 25 kg).Ando Electric Co. Ltd., Kanagawa, Japan FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 350 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Optical/electrical plug-in moduleThe 86105B 15-GHz optical and 20-GHz electrical plug-in module for the company's Infiniium digital communications analyzer allows designers and manufactures to perform transmitter compliance testing of multiple technologies and line rates with a single module. The module comes with three multiple filter options: #101 (9.953, 10.3125, 10.51875, 10.664, and 10.709 Gbits/sec), #102 (155, 622, 2,488, 2,500, and 2,666 Mbits/sec; 9.953, 10.3125, 10.51875, 10.664, and 10.709 Gbits/sec), and #103 (1,063, 1,250, 2,125, 2,488, and 2,500 Mbits/sec; 9.953, 10.3125, 10.51875, 10.664, and 10.709 Gbits/sec).Agilent Technologies Inc. Lightwave Div., Santa Rosa, CA FOR FREE DATa, en ter NO. 351 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Cable assembly test systemThe IQS-12001B interconnect assembly loss test system performs fast automated insertion loss and reflectance measurements on patch-cord, multifiber, and other interconnect assemblies in the manufacturing environment. The mandrel-free system is especially suited for hard-to-test fanout and hybrid assemblies. Remote-monitoring configuration saves time by providing access to the test setup. One software application enables system configuration to test multimode and singlemode fibers, all connector types, without an additional PC. The high-throughput configuration for insertion loss and reflectance measurements doubles the number of switch ports and adds a loss meter to the configuration to allow hybrid-patch-cord testing in one batch.EXFO, Vanier, Quebec FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 352 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Tunable-laser sourcesThe TLS-8800 Series precision tunable-laser sources-TLS-8801 C-band and TLS-8802 L-band-provide high-output power, absolute wavelength accuracy, and power flatness over the tuning range-all in a one compact instrument. An integrated wavelength monitor achieves absolute wavelength accuracy of ±1 pm with 13 dBm of output power. An integrated power monitor maintains ±0.05 dB over the full tuning range. Power stability is ±0.01 dB over one hour and ±0.03dB over 24 hours.ILX Lightwave Corp., Bozeman, MT FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 353 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
BER tester
The OPX-192 bit-error-rate (BER) tester, part of the AX/4000 product family, is specifically designed for the stringent testing requirements associated with core and metro-area networks. It verifies that network devices meet BER requirements and conform to the SONET/SDH standard, including reporting alarms/errors and protection switching, before deployment. The tester also enables the mapping of payloads from STS-192/AU-4-64 down to STS-1, in any valid combination, and can test up to 192 channels simultaneously and independently. The OPX-192 helps accelerate time-to-market and ensure network and equipment performance, allowing better use of engineering resources and reduced testing time and space requirements.
Spirent Communications, Rockville, MD FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 354 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Mass connector polisherThe MCP 48 mass connector polisher can polish four to 48 fiber-optic connectors at the same time and meets TIA, IEC/Bellcore, and GR-326 industry standards. Patented figure 8 polishing pattern lets users tightly control the radius, Apex offset, and fiber height for a high-quality finish. The MCP 48 can polish a range of styles, including PC, UPC, 8-10-degree APC, flat, spherical, radius, and domed. A training CD is included to help start technicians polishing immediately.Nanometer Technologies Inc., Atascadero, CA FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 355 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Manufacturing, testing systemFiberMax performs high-volume manufacturing and testing of fiber-optic components by using patent-pending direct-drive technology to achieve a high level of positioning performance and high throughput. It offers up to six axes of precise motion, 10-nm resolution X-Z axis, 2-nm resolution Y axis, 300-pm resolution with Automation 3200 soft controller, 0.027-0.058 arc-sec resolution on all rotary axes, a 32-axis turnkey drive, and control electronics.Aerotech Inc., Pittsburgh FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 356 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Hybrid alignment engineF-130 NanoAlignment Engine is designed to provide very-high-precision alignments for companies that do not want to invest in a fully automated packaging solution. It features 3-6 degrees of freedom and combines compact motorized stages (50-nm resolution) for intelligent pre-alignment with ultra-precise piezo technology (1-nm resolution). This hybrid ultra-low-inertia approach means that during the alignment process only the small mass of the PZT scanner moves, allowing for short alignment times.PI (Physik Instrumente) GmbH, Karlsruhe/Palmbach, Germany FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 357 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Dispensing pen system
The Mikros dispensing pen system improves fluid control and minimizes waste in fiber-optic assembly processes where precise amounts of two-part epoxies, UV-cure adhesives, and other expensive fluids are required. Used with air-powered dispensers, the dispensing system produces consistent micro-deposits as small as 0.007 inch in diameter. Disposable reservoir tips with 0.25-cc capacity reduce waste by allowing expensive adhesives to be mixed in small batches and consumed before working time expires. Silicone-free reservoir tips have 30-, 32-, or 33-gauge needles and block UV wavelengths between 280 and 390 nm.
EFD, Bedfordshire, UK FOR FREE DATA, enter NO. 358 at www.onlinecenter.to/lw
Lightwave is a monthly international publication focusing on fiber optics and optoelectronics, the technologies driving the growth, convergence, and improved performance of telephony, computer communications, and video. Lightwave provides technology news as well as applications and product information for corporate and technical managers and staff engineers. Lightwave's editors emphasize analysis and interpretation in their reports on the technological impact of fiber-optic components, systems, and networks in these markets.