Coherent’s WaveMaker 4000A Optical Spectral Synthesizer has a fully programable spectral output with high output power (40 mW), high contrast (>60 dB), and high accuracy and repeatability. It is programable down to 0.1-GHz resolution with an ~ 4-dB/GHz response sharpness and a 10-Hz update speed. The ability to mix in multiple other spectral sources, such as transmitters, into the supplied spectrum enables the unit to be the sole light input for complex network simulations. Network testing and simulations are major applications for this unit. The light from up to four transmitters can be mixed into the supplied spectrum allowing the effect of modulated nearest neighbors to be assessed in addition to the overall spectral load. Each channel shape and width can be individually defined.

Judge’s Comment: “This is a unique instrument, enabling the generation of arbitrary ASE spectra. It is useful for testing devices like amplifiers.”