FVA-3150 | Signal Attenuation | Variable Attenuator

FVA-3150 - variable attenuator

The fully programmable FVA-3150 variable attenuator, ideal for singlemode and multimode applications, enables highly accurate automated BER testing and comes with standard GPIB and RS-232 interfaces.

Discontinued date: 2/28/2017

End-of-service and support date: 2/28/2022

Key features

Outstanding spectral uniformity (±0.03 dB)

Ideal for BER testing and characterization of EDFAs

Monitor output option

Fast settling time for optimized efficiency

Programmable—using the front-panel buttons, or the built-in RS-232 or GPIB interfaces

Description

First-class building block for assessing signal attenuation

High-quality components and meticulous calibration procedures make the FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator the instrument of choice for repeatable and accurate attenuation settings (up to 65 dB). The FVA-3150 meets system and component manufacturers’ need for component and system loss simulation, instrument calibration, power meter linearity measurement and spectral tuning. Its ultra-low insertion loss enables you to optimize the loss budget.

The FVA-3150 is configured for singlemode or multimode fibers. Use it as a stand-alone instrument or mounted on a 19-inch rack (optional).

Rugged and reliable

Flexible, fully programmable and built for both singlemode and multimode applications, the FVA-3150 features a truly rugged design that uses only two moving parts—a rotating motor for the shutter and a linear motor for the filter—and state-of-the-art electronics.

The attenuator’s optomechanical assembly was tested at its highest operating temperature, at a very high relative humidity level, and with a continuous incident optical power of 23 dBm at 1550 nm—the equivalent of eight years of operation in typical bit-error-rate (BER) testing conditions. Results showed that an FVA-3150 can withstand 24/7 operation for years without requiring maintenance.

Applications

BER testing
EDFA characterization
System/component loss simulation
Accurate power-level monitoring
Instrument calibration
Linearity measurement
Precision variable optical source output
Spectral tuning
Optical margin analysis

Key features

Attenuation modes

Choose from three attenuation modes: absolute (including insertion loss), relative (in reference to the 0.00 dB level) or X+B (relative display to any selected reference value).

Monitor port

The monitor output port enables accurate power-level monitoring at the receiver end of your system

Programmable and remotely controllable

Using the front-panel buttons, cycle through a repeatable sequence of up to 100 attenuation steps with a dwell time of up to 1000 hours per step. The Program mode is ideal for automated BER testing and linearity measurements.

Standard GPIB and RS-232 interface and control codes enable remote operation from a PC or test station. Program your own software solutions for complex test procedures and benefit form added computer capabilities. LabVIEW® drivers are available.

FVA-3150 - variable attenuator

Key features

Description