CiDRA Corporation ("CiDRA") unveiled its AgileWave Tunable Bandpass Filter (TBF), which the company claims to be the first 50GHz tunable filter to scan or set along the entire C-band wavelength range. The TBF is a digitally programmable filter module that enables precise routing and monitoring of individual DWDM channels in optical telecommunication networks.
Based on CiDRA's proprietary optical waveguide technology and tunable Bragg grating technology, the first product release accurately scans or sets a narrow 50GHz filter to any wavelength within the C-band with a simple digital command. "This unique device provides a new optical monitoring and transmission diagnostic tool to network operators for verifying system performance for installation and maintenance applications," said Kevin Didden, CiDRA's president and CEO. "The ability to remotely select out channels and perform complete optical performance tests at various line locations greatly enhances network performance monitoring and fault identification."
CiDRA's TBF features an electronic control circuit that eliminates the need for wavelength referencing. "Using this technique, the filter can be commanded to repeatedly set or scan wavelengths with picometer accuracy," said Alan Kersey, CiDRA's Chief Technology Officer. The TBF also features filter isolation of greater than 50dB.
Immediate applications for CiDRA's TBF module include remote signal routing, high-resolution optical performance monitoring, channel selectors for local bit error rate testing and high-end photonics test and measurement equipment. CiDRA offers a standard 50GHz module covering the C-band as well as original equipment manufactured modules based on specific customer applications and functional requirements. The AgileWave TBF comes in a stand-alone package or can be made in card form for ready installation into customer equipment.
About CiDRA:
Founded in 1996, CiDRA Corporation designs, manufactures and markets component, module and subsystem products for dynamic routing, monitoring and conditioning of optical signals. For more information, visit www.cidra.com.