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Description

The Digital Variable Attenuator from OZ Optics is a state-of-the-art solution designed for precise optical power control in fiber optic systems. Engineered for versatility and reliability, this attenuator is suitable for a wide range of applications, including bit error rate testing, troubleshooting of receivers and active fiber optic components, simulating long-distance fiber transmission, and power meter linearity checks. Its compact and rugged construction ensures dependable performance in both laboratory and field environments, making it an ideal choice for research, development, and production settings.

This digital attenuator stands out with its high power handling capability—up to 2 watts—making it suitable for demanding applications where robust performance is essential. It offers a broad attenuation range, supporting wavelengths from 350 nm to 2050 nm, and can be calibrated for dual wavelengths (such as 1300/1550 nm) or for C and L bands. For specialized requirements, calibration for up to four individual wavelengths is also available, ensuring accurate attenuation across a continuous, wide spectral range. The device employs a blocking technique for singlemode fibers and a neutral density filter technique for multimode fiber applications, providing flexibility for various fiber types.

Precision and consistency are at the core of this attenuator’s design, featuring low insertion loss, minimal backreflection, and low polarization dependent loss (PDL). Its high resolution and fast response enable fine-tuned control over optical signals, which is critical for advanced testing and simulation tasks. The attenuator is equipped with a standard USB computer interface, allowing for seamless integration with automated test setups and remote operation. For field use, an optional built-in rechargeable battery ensures uninterrupted operation where AC power is unavailable.

OZ Optics offers versions compatible with singlemode, multimode, and polarization maintaining (PM) fibers, including options based on the PANDA fiber structure. The device is available with a variety of connector receptacles to suit different system requirements. Its robust, compact design and comprehensive calibration options make the Digital Variable Attenuator a reliable and flexible tool for professionals seeking precise optical attenuation in modern fiber optic networks.

Digital Variable Attenuator

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Specifications

Number Of Channels: Single Channel
Operating Wavelength Range: 350 – 2050 nm
Dynamic Attenuation Range (max): 60 dB
Insertion Loss (max): 2 dB
Return Loss (min): 40 dB
Speed: 100 ms
Repeatability Of Attenuation Setting: 10 dB
Accuracy: 40 dB
Power Supply: Universal 110/220V AC to 12V DC adapter, Optional built-in rechargeable battery
Battery Lifetime: 8 hours
Maximum Optical Power: 2 W
Computer Interface: USB
Polarization Extinction Ratio (for PM Fiber): 30 dB
Dimensions: 150 x 81 x 46 mm
Operating Temperature: -10 to +55 °C
Storage Temperature: -30 to +70 °C
Certifications: CSA-C22.2 NO. 61010-1-12, UL

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Features

  • High Power Handling: Supports optical power levels up to 2 watts, ideal for demanding fiber optic applications.
  • Wide Attenuation Range: Operates across a broad wavelength spectrum from 350 nm to 2050 nm, suitable for diverse testing and operational needs.
  • High Speed & High Resolution: Enables rapid and precise attenuation adjustments for accurate and repeatable measurements.
  • Low Insertion Loss & Backreflection: Minimizes signal loss and reflection, ensuring optimal performance in sensitive optical systems.
  • Low Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL) & Wavelength Dependency: Delivers consistent attenuation performance across different wavelengths and polarization states.
  • Flexible Calibration Options: Calibrated for dual wavelengths (1300-1550 nm), C and L bands, or up to four individual wavelengths for tailored accuracy.
  • Multiple Fiber Compatibility: Available for singlemode, multimode, and polarization maintaining (PM) fiber types, including custom fiber options.
  • Versatile Attenuation Techniques: Utilizes blocking technique for singlemode and neutral density filter technique for multimode fiber applications.
  • Wide Range of Receptacles: Compatible with various connector types for seamless integration into existing setups.
  • Rugged & Compact Design: Engineered for durability and portability, suitable for both laboratory and field environments.
  • USB Computer Interface: Standard USB connectivity allows for easy remote control and automation via PC.
  • Optional Built-in Rechargeable Battery: Provides portable operation for field use where AC power is unavailable.
  • Ideal for Multiple Applications: Perfect for bit error rate testing, troubleshooting receivers, simulating long-distance fiber transmission, power meter linearity checks, and power setting.
  • Customizable Solutions: Can be constructed using customer-supplied fibers or alternative PM fiber structures upon request.

Applications

  • Bit Error Rate (BER) Testing: Precisely control optical signal levels for accurate BER measurements in fiber optic communication systems.
  • Receiver and Transceiver Troubleshooting: Simulate varying signal strengths to diagnose and troubleshoot active fiber optic components such as receivers, transceivers, and amplifiers.
  • Simulating Long-Distance Fiber Transmission: Emulate signal attenuation over long fiber runs to test system performance and reliability without the need for actual long fiber spools.
  • Design and Development of Fiber Optic Transmitter/Receiver Circuits: Provide controlled attenuation for R&D and prototyping of optical circuits and modules.
  • Power Meter Linearity Checks: Verify and calibrate the linearity and accuracy of optical power meters by providing known attenuation steps.
  • Optical Power Setting: Precisely adjust and set optical power levels for system integration, testing, and calibration.
  • Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) System Testing: Attenuate specific channels or wavelengths to evaluate WDM system performance and crosstalk.
  • Optical Network Equipment Testing: Test switches, multiplexers, demultiplexers, and other network components under controlled attenuation conditions.
  • Field Testing and Maintenance: Use the battery-powered option for on-site testing and troubleshooting where AC power is unavailable.
  • Research and Laboratory Experiments: Enable precise optical power control for academic and industrial research in photonics and optical communications.
  • Polarization Maintaining (PM) System Testing: Evaluate and optimize PM fiber systems using PM-compatible attenuator versions.
  • Optical Sensor Calibration: Calibrate and test fiber optic sensors by simulating different signal strengths and loss scenarios.
  • Automated Test Systems: Integrate with computer-controlled setups via USB interface for automated and remote attenuation control.
  • Optical Component Characterization: Characterize the performance of lasers, detectors, modulators, and other optical components under varying input powers.
  • Quality Assurance and Production Testing: Implement in manufacturing lines for repeatable and reliable attenuation during QA and production tests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a digital variable attenuator and what are its main applications?
A digital variable attenuator is an optical device that precisely controls the amount of light passing through a fiber optic system. It is commonly used for bit error rate testing, troubleshooting receivers and other active fiber optic components, simulating long distance fiber transmission, power meter linearity checks, and power setting in fiber optic networks.
What wavelength range does the OZ Optics digital variable attenuator support?
The OZ Optics digital variable attenuator supports a wide attenuation range from 350 nm to 2050 nm. It can be calibrated for dual wavelengths (1300-1550 nm), C and L bands, or up to four individual wavelengths, making it suitable for a variety of fiber optic applications.
How does the digital variable attenuator achieve high power handling and low insertion loss?
The attenuator uses a blocking technique for singlemode fibers and a neutral density filter technique for multimode fibers, allowing it to handle high optical power levels (up to 2 watts) while maintaining low insertion loss and low backreflection. This ensures minimal signal degradation during attenuation.
What types of fibers and connectors are compatible with the OZ Optics digital variable attenuator?
The device is compatible with singlemode, multimode, and polarization maintaining (PM) fibers. It supports a wide range of fiber receptacles, including SC/Super PC connectors, and can be customized to use customer-supplied fibers or alternative PM fiber structures upon request.
Can the digital variable attenuator be controlled remotely or integrated with a computer?
Yes, the OZ Optics digital variable attenuator features a standard USB computer interface, allowing users to access and control the device remotely via a PC. This makes it easy to integrate into automated test setups or laboratory environments.
Is the digital variable attenuator suitable for field use without AC power?
Yes, an optional built-in rechargeable battery is available, making the attenuator suitable for field applications where AC power may not be readily accessible. This enhances its portability and versatility for on-site testing and troubleshooting.
What makes the OZ Optics digital variable attenuator stand out compared to similar products?
The OZ Optics digital variable attenuator offers high power handling (up to 2 watts), high speed, wide attenuation and wavelength range, low polarization dependent loss (PDL), low insertion loss, and high resolution. Its rugged and compact design, along with flexible calibration options and computer interface, make it a robust choice for both laboratory and field applications.

Got more questions? Use the inquiry form to ask the supplier directly.

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