Information provided by EXFO is believed to be accurate and reliable. However, no
responsibility is assumed by EXFO for its use nor for any infringements of patents or
other rights of third parties that may result from its use. No license is granted by
implication or otherwise under any patent rights of EXFO.
EXFO’s Commerce And Government Entities (CAGE) code under the North Atlantic
Treaty Organization (NATO) is 0L8C3.
The information contained in this publication is subject to change without notice.
Trademarks
EXFO’s trademarks have been identified as such. However, the presence or
absence of such identification does not affect the legal status of any trademark.
Units of Measurement
Units of measurement in this publication conform to SI standards and practices.
Patents
EXFO’s Universal Interface is protected by US patent 6,612,750.
Version number: 1.0.0
ii
Contents
Certification Information .................................................................................. v
1 Introducing the FVA-600 Variable Attenuator ......................... 1
Main Features ................................................................................................... 1
Power Sources .................................................................................................. 2
Electronic test equipment is exempt from Part 15 compliance (FCC) in the United
States. However, compliance verification tests are systematically performed on
most EXFO equipment.
Information
Electronic test equipment is subject to the EMC Directive in the European Union.
The EN61326 standard prescribes both emission and immunity requirements for
laboratory, measurement, and control equipment. This unit has undergone
extensive testing according to the European Union Directive and Standards.
FVA-600v
Certification Informationvi
Y
Application of Council Directives: 2006/95/EC - The Low Voltage Directive
2004/108/EC - The EMC Directive
2006/66/EC - The Battery Directive
and their amendments
Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO Inc.
Manufacturer’s Address: 400 Godin Avenue
Quebec, Quebec
Canada, G1M 2K2
Equipment Type/Environment: Test & Measurement / Industrial
EN 61010-1:2001 Edition 2.0 Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement,
EN 61326-1:2006 Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory
EN 55022: 2006 + A1: 2007 Information technology equipment — Radio disturbance
I, the undersigned, hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the above Directives and Standards.
Manufacturer
Signature:
Full Name: Stephen Bull, E. Eng
Position:Vice-President Research and
Address:400 Godin Avenue, Quebec (Quebec),
Date:February 18, 2010
Development
Canada, G1M 2K2
DECLARATION OF CONFORMIT
93/68/EEC - CE Marking
Control, and Laboratory Use – Part 1: General Requirements.
Use - EMC Requirements
characteristics — Limits and methods of measurement
1Introducing the FVA-600
Variable Attenuator
The FVA-600 is a variable optical attenuator used for bit error rate and system
testing, optical margin analysis, calibration verification and component testing. It is
configured for singlemode fibers. Calibrated wavelengths are 1310 nm and 1550 nm.
Main Features
The FVA-600 includes the following:
³ Large attenuation range
³ High accuracy
³ Fast settling time
³ Auto-off feature to lenghten battery life
³ Backlight to help you work regardless of external conditions
³ Unit status and operation mode stored upon shutdown
³ Remote operation using a USB link
LCD display
Shoulder
strap eyelet
DC connector
Keypad
USB connector
FVA-6001
Safety label
and serial number
(under the stand)
Quick reference label
Battery compartment
Introducing the FVA-600 Variable Attenuator2
Out
In
Power Sources
The unit operates with the following power sources:
³ AC adapter (connected to standard power outlet - indoor use only)
Compatible car outlet adapter available upon request.
³ Li-Ion rechargeable battery (automatically takes over if you unplug the
AC adapter)
IMPORTANT
If the battery level becomes too low, the unit turns itself off.
Typical Applications
You can use the FVA-600 Variable Attenuator for several applications, such as:
³ High power suiting any application, including CATV and Telco
³ BER testing ready with high optical resolution
³ FTTx ready with standard 1310,1490,1550 and 1625 nm wavelengths
³ Remote control ready via USB for integration in automated test setups
Conventions
Before using the product described in this manual, you should understand the
following conventions:
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury. Do not proceed unless you
understand and meet the required conditions.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
may result in minor or moderate injury. Do not proceed unless you
understand and meet the required conditions.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
may result in component damage. Do not proceed unless you
understand and meet the required conditions.
IMPORTANT
Refers to information about this product you should not overlook.
FVA-6003
Safety Information4
2Safety Information
General Information
WARNING
Do not install or terminate fibers while a laser source is active. Never
look directly into a live fiber and ensure that your eyes are protected
at all times.
WARNING
Use of controls, adjustments and procedures for operation and
maintenance other than those specified herein may result in
hazardous radiation exposure.
Electrical Safety Information
WARNING
Use the AC adapter provided with this product indoors
only.
3Getting Started with Your
FVA-600 Variable
Attenuator
Turning the Unit On and Off
When you turn off the FVA-600, it saves the current attenuation, wavelength,
operation mode, and step size.
IMPORTANT
If you remove batteries (and the AC adapter is unplugged), the unit
will turn off without saving the above values.
If the battery level is low (and the AC adapter is unplugged), the unit
will save the above values and turn off.
To turn on the unit:
Press . The unit displays EXFO for a few seconds.
You may use it immediately under normal conditions unless the unit was not shut
down properly. In this case, the unit will mechanically recalibrate itself.
To turn off the unit:
Hold down a few seconds. The unit saves current settings automatically.
Display Description
Total attenuation in relative or power mode
Step size
Selected wavelength
Edition value for wavelength, power
Indicates a calibrated
wavelength in
wavelength edition
mode
AC adapter
plugged in
Batteries in use
(with level)
Auto-off activated
FVA-6005
Total attenuation in absolute mode (dB)
Relative attenuation in relative mode (dB)
or power in power mode (dBm)
Getting Started with Your FVA-600 Variable Attenuator6
G
d
Keypad Description
The functions below are obtained by pressing on the corresponding buttons.
Tur n s o n u nit
Auto-off mode
Esc key
oes to next preselecte
wavelength
Confirms wavelength edition
Switches between
measurement modes
Goes to next step size in list
Abs/
Rel/
Pwr
Step
Size
λ
Select
Increases value
(attenuation, power,
edition)
Decreases value
(attenuation, power,
edition)
Confirms selection
Secondary Functions Keypad
The functions below are obtained by pressing and holding the button for a few
seconds.
Turns off unit
Switches backlight
reference positioning
attenuation in use
on or off
Searches for
and reset to
Esc
Backlight
Zero
Edit λ
Edit Pwr/Ref
Edits selected
wavelength
Increases value rapidly
Decreases value rapidly
Edits power for power
operation mode and takes
reference for relative
operation mode
Activating Automatic Shutdown (Auto-Off)
When auto-off is activated, the unit will turn off after
10 minutes of idle time.
To deactivate/reactivate auto-off:
When unit is on, press rapidly.
Activating the Backlight
When operating the unit in the dark, use the backlight to make data on the display
more visible. The keypad buttons will also light for about 10 seconds.
Note:When the backlight is activated, you must always press a button once to
light the keypad, then press the actual button you want.
To activate/deactivate the backlight:
From the normal operating mode, hold down for a few seconds.
Abs/
Rel/
Pwr
Installing the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI)
The EUIfixed baseplate is available for connectors with angled (APC) or non-angled
(UPC) polishing. A green border around the baseplate indicates that it is for
APC-type connectors.
Green border
indicates APC
option
indicates UPC option
Bare metal
(or blue border)
To install an EUI connector adapter onto the EUI baseplate:
1. Hold the EUI connector adapter so the dust cap opens downwards.
234
2. Close the dust cap in order to hold the connector adapter more firmly.
3. Insert the connector adapter into the baseplate.
4. While pushing firmly, turn the connector adapter clockwise on the baseplate to
lock it in place.
FVA-6007
Getting Started with Your FVA-600 Variable Attenuator8
Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers
IMPORTANT
To ensure maximum power and to avoid erroneous readings:
³ Always clean fiber ends as explained below before inserting
them into the port. EXFO is not responsible for damage or errors
caused by bad fiber cleaning or handling.
³ Ensure that your patchcord has appropriate connectors. Joining
mismatched connectors will damage the ferrules.
To connect the fiber-optic cable to the port:
1. Inspect the fiber using a fiber inspection microscope. If the fiber is clean,
proceed to connecting it to the port. If the fiber is dirty, clean it as explained
below.
2. Clean the fiber ends as follows:
2a. Gently wipe the fiber end with a lint-free swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol.
2b. Use compressed air to dry completely.
2c. Visually inspect the fiber end to ensure its cleanliness.
3. Carefully align the connector and port to prevent the fiber end from touching the
outside of the port or rubbing against other surfaces.
If your connector features a key, ensure that it is fully fitted into the port’s
corresponding notch.
4. Push the connector in so that the fiber-optic cable is firmly in place, thus
ensuring adequate contact.
If your connector features a screwsleeve, tighten the connector enough to firmly
maintain the fiber in place. Do not overtighten, as this will damage the fiber and
the port.
Note:If your fiber-optic cable is not properly aligned and/or connected, you
will notice heavy loss and reflection.
4Operating the FVA-600
Variable Attenuator
Selecting Wavelengths
Six wavelengths are already preselected in your unit. The wavelength in use is
displayed in the upper left corner of the screen.
To select a wavelength:
λ
Press to switch between the available values.
You can edit the six preselected wavelengths. See Editing Wavelength on page 12.
You can also return to the default factory wavelengths. See Reverting to the Default Settings on page 17.
Setting the Attenuation
You can change the attenuation value while you are performing your tests.
To set the attenuation:
Press and hold or to set the attenuation rapidly and according to the
selected step size. See Setting Attenuation Step Size on page 12.
OR
Press and hold and to go to the maximum attenuation, or press and hold
Select
and to go to the minimum attenuation.
Selecting an Operation Mode
Select
The FVA-600 is used in three different operating modes:
³ Absolute mode
³ Relative mode, which allows you to work with a reference attenuation
³ Power mode, which can be used to display the FVA-600 output power after
power edition settings.
To select an operation mode:
Abs/
Rel/
Press to switch between the available modes.
Pwr
FVA-6009
Operating the FVA-600 Variable Attenuator10
Using the Absolute Mode
The absolute mode displays the current wavelength and attenuation settings.
Note:The attenuation value is the actual insertion loss between the input and
output ports, including connectors.
Using the Relative Mode
The relative mode displays the current wavelength, the total attenuation, and the
relative attenuation. You need to set a reference before using the relative mode.
Note:The reference used is the one that was stored for the current
If you vary the attenuation, the total attenuation introduced by the FVA-600 is
displayed in the top right corner, while the relative loss (or gain) with respect to the
selected reference is displayed in dB.
wavelength.
Current
wavelength
Attenuation
Relative
attenuation
loss/gain
To take a reference:
Press and hold .
Select
While taking and storing the reference, the unit will
display REF for a short time. The unit returns to relative
mode using the new reference taken.
Using the Power Mode (Output
Power)
The power mode allows you to use the FVA-600 as if it was a power meter. This
operation mode uses the power value for the wavelength in use. It is a good practice
to edit this power.
To modify the power value:
1. Using the proper adapter, connect a power meter at the output of the FVA-600
and match the power meter value and the FVA-600 power value.
2. Press and hold to enter the power edition mode.
3. Press the arrow buttons to go to the previous or
next power value. Hold them down to go to the
previous or next power value faster. You can also
change the power step size. See Setting Power Step Size on page 12.
4. Press to confirm your selection.
Select
You can also exit the power edition mode by
pressing. However, the new power value will not be stored and the previous
power value will be used.
Select
FVA-60011
Operating the FVA-600 Variable Attenuator12
Setting Attenuation Step Size
The unit has six preselected attenuation step sizes that allows you to vary the
attenuation more or less rapidly. The attenuation step size in use is stored when the
unit is turn off.
To select a step size:
Step
Press to switch between the available values.
Size
Setting Power Step Size
The unit has three preselected power step sizes that
allows you to vary the power in edition more or less
rapidly. The power step size in use is stored when the
unit is turn off.
To select a step size:
Step
Press to switch between the available values.
Size
Editing Wavelength
Six wavelengths are already preprogrammed in your unit. You can edit them to
better suit your needs.
To edit the wavelength value:
1. Press and hold to enter the wavelength
edition mode.
2. Use the arrow buttons to go to the previous or next
wavelength value. Hold them down to change the
wavelength faster.
λ
Note:An asterisk appears in the top right corner
of the unit when a manually selected value matches a calibrated
wavelength.
Select
3. Press or to confirm your selection.
λ
You can also exit the wavelength edition mode by pressing without selecting a
new wavelength.
Zeroing the unit
The Variable Attenuator contains mechanical elements used to change attenuation.
It is a good practice to have the instrument mechanism return to the zero (home)
position to reestablish its relative position on the range of attenuation.
To perform a zeroing:
Press and hold .
Step
Size
The screen displays ZERO while the zeroing is
performed. After the search is complete, the unit
returns to the attenuation that was previously in use.
Using the USB Port
The FVA-600 Variable Attenuator includes a USB port located on the side of the unit.
USB port
EXFO provides two installation kits to control the FVA-600 via the USB port.
³ One installation kit is for a computer using Microsoft Windows XP or
Vista (32/64 bits). This kit gives you the source code so you can set up a program
that better suits your needs. The source code is in C# and the project was
developed with Microsoft Visual Studio 2005.
³ The other installation kit is designed for the FTB-500. You can access the
application through the Tools (IPM) tab in ToolBox.
When you use either of the installation kits, the
remote-controlled unit displays REM. on its screen.
The unit returns to local mode when you exit the
software or if you disconnect from the USB port. The
screen displays RTL until you press a key, then the unit
can be controlled by the keypad.
FVA-60013
Maintenance14
5Maintenance
To help ensure long, trouble-free operation:
³ Always inspect fiber-optic connectors before using them and clean them if
necessary.
³ Keep the unit free of dust.
³ Clean the unit casing and front panel with a cloth slightly dampened with water.
³ Store unit at room temperature in a clean and dry area. Keep the unit out of
direct sunlight.
³ Avoid high humidity or significant temperature fluctuations.
³ Avoid unnecessary shocks and vibrations.
³ If any liquids are spilled on or into the unit, turn off the power immediately,
disconnect from any external power source, remove the batteries and let the
unit dry completely.
WARNING
Use of controls, adjustments, and procedures for operation and
maintenance other than those specified herein may result in
hazardous radiation exposure.
Cleaning EUI Connectors
Regular cleaning of EUI connectors will help maintain optimum performance. There
is no need to disassemble the unit.
IMPORTANT
If any damage occurs to internal connectors, the module casing will
have to be opened and a new calibration will be required.
To clean EUI connectors:
1. Remove the EUI from the instrument to expose the connector baseplate and
ferrule.
Tur n
Push
2. Moisten a 2.5 mm cleaning tip with one drop of isopropyl alcohol (alcohol may
leave traces if used abundantly).
3. Slowly insert the cleaning tip into the EUI adapter until it comes out on the other
side (a slow clockwise rotating movement may help).
Pull
3
4
5
4. Gently turn the cleaning tip one full turn, then continue to turn as you withdraw
it.
FVA-60015
Maintenance16
5. Repeat steps 3 to 4 with a dry cleaning tip.
Note:Make sure you don’t touch the soft end of the cleaning tip.
6. Clean the ferrule in the connector port as follows:
6a. Deposit one drop of isopropyl alcohol on a lint-free wiping cloth.
IMPORTANT
Since isopropyl alcohol is not absolutely pure, it may leave residues
if used abundantly or left to evaporate (about 10 seconds).
Avoid contact between the tip of the bottle and the wiping cloth,
dry the surface quickly, and use a bottle that distributes only a drop
of alcohol at a time.
6b. Gently wipe the connector and ferrule.
6c. With a dry lint-free wiping cloth, gently wipe the same surfaces to ensure
that the connector and ferrule are perfectly dry.
6d. Verify connector surface with a portable fiber-optic microscope (for
example, EXFO’s FOMS) or fiber inspection probe (for example, EXFO’s
FIP).
WARNING
Verifying the surface of the connector WHILE THE UNIT IS ACTIVE
WILL result in permanent eye damage.
7. Put the EUI back onto the instrument (push and turn clockwise).
8. Throw out cleaning tips and wiping cloths after one use.
Recharging the Battery Pack
To recharge the battery pack, connect the AC adapter/charger. A full recharge takes
approximately 5 hours. For maximum efficiency, recharge the battery at room
temperature.
IMPORTANT
³ The battery functions and charges properly between 0
o
C (32oF and 113oF). It will not charge if the temperature is
45
below -10
³ Never store battery at temperatures above 60
³ Charge only with specified charger.
To recharge the Li-Ion battery:
Connect the unit to a power outlet (or car outlet) using the AC adapter/charger. The
charge cycle will start and end automatically.
Note:While charging, the battery indicator animates continuously. It does not
reflect the actual charge status until charging is complete.
o
C (14oF) or above 45oC (113oF).
o
o
C (140oF).
C and
Replacing the Battery
Your unit requires one Li-Ion battery.
To replace the battery:
1. Turn off the unit (if the AC adapter is plugged in,
you may replace the batteries while unit is on).
2. Open the battery compartment door located at the
back of the unit.
3. Replace batteries respecting the polarity.
4. Close the battery compartment door.
WARNING
Do not throw batteries into fire or water and do not short-circuit
the batteries’ electrical contacts. Do not disassemble.
Checking the LCD Display
If you suspect that part of the LCD display is not lighting up properly, you can
perform a test to light up all segments at once.
To check the LCD Display:
1. When the unit is on, press and hold and simultaneously.
2. Press any button to exit the LCD check mode.
Reverting to the Default Settings
Abs/
Rel/
Pwr
You can revert to the default settings for the following parameters in one step:
³ Preselected wavelengths
³ Smallest step size in use
³ Backlight off
³ Use absolute operation mode
To reset the values:
When the unit is on, press and hold and .
FVA-60017
λ
Select
Maintenance18
Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European
Union Only)
Recycle or dispose of your product (including electric and electronic
accessories) properly, in accordance with local regulations. Do not
dispose of it in ordinary garbage receptacles.
This equipment was sold after August 13, 2005 (as identified by the
black rectangle).
³ Unless otherwise noted in a separate agreement between EXFO and a
customer, distributor or commercial partner, EXFO will cover costs related to
the collection, treatment, recovery and disposal of end-of-lifecycle waste
generated by electronic equipment introduced after August 13, 2005 to an
European Union member state with legislation regarding Directive 2002/96/EC.
³ Except for reasons of safety or environmental benefit, equipment manufactured
by EXFO, under its brand name, is generally designed to facilitate dismantling
and reclamation.
For complete recycling/disposal procedures and contact information, visit the EXFO
Web s ite at www.exfo.com/recycle.
6Troubleshooting
Solutions to Common Problems
The following table presents common problems an their solution.
ProblemSolution
Display is blank
Batteries are low
Questionable attenuation
Error code
³ Press .
³ Verify and connect AC adapter/charger.
³ Connect AC adapter/charger.
³ Switch input and output power.
³ Switch to the correct wavelength on all
instruments being used.
³ Perform a zero on the unit.
³ Restart unit.
³ If problem persists, contact EXFO.
FVA-60019
Troubleshooting20
Contacting the Technical Support Group
To obtain after-sales service or technical support for this product, contact EXFO at
one of the following numbers. The Technical Support Group is available to take your
calls from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Eastern Time in North America).
For detailed information about technical support, visit the EXFO Web site at
www.exfo.com.
Technical Support Group
400 Godin Avenue
Quebec (Quebec) G1M 2K2
CANADA
To accelerate the process, please have information such as the name and the serial
number (see the product identification label—an example is shown below), as well
as a description of your problem, close at hand.
When contacting the technical support team, you may be asked to indicate the
version number for the unit and the date at which the latest calibration was
performed.
To view information about the unit:
1. When the unit is on, press and hold and .
Step
Size
Select
2. Use the arrow buttons to switch between the software version number and
calibration date.
3. Press to return to the normal mode.
YY-MM.DD
Software
version
number
Transportation
Maintain a temperature range within specifications when transporting the unit.
Transportation damage can occur from improper handling. The following steps are
recommended to minimize the possibility of damage:
³ Pack the unit in its original packing material when shipping.
³ Avoid high humidity or large temperature fluctuations.
³ Keep the unit out of direct sunlight.
³ Avoid unnecessary shocks and vibrations.
FVA-60021
Warranty22
7Warranty
General Information
EXFO Inc. (EXFO) warrants this equipment against defects in material and
workmanship for a period of three year from the d
wa
rrants that this equipment will meet applicable specifications under normal use.
During the warranty period, EXFO will, at its discretion, repair, replace, or issue
credit for any defective product, as well as verify and adjust the product free of
charge should the equipment need to be repaired or if the original calibration is
erroneous. If the equipment is sent back for verification of calibration during the
warranty period and found to meet all published specifications, EXFO will charge
standard calibration fees.
IMPORTANT
The warranty can become null and void if:
³ unit has been tampered with, repaired, or worked upon by
unauthorized individuals or non-EXFO personnel.
³ warranty sticker has been removed.
³ case screws, other than those specified in this guide, have been
removed.
³ case has been opened, other than as explained in this guide.
³ unit serial number has been altered, erased, or removed.
³ unit has been misused, neglected, or damaged by accident.
ate of original shipment. EXFO also
THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES EXPRESSED, IMPLIED,
OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT
SHALL EXFO BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES.
Liability
EXFO shall not be liable for damages resulting from the use of the product, nor shall
be responsible for any failure in the performance of other items to which the
product is connected or the operation of any system of which the product may be a
part.
EXFO shall not be liable for damages resulting from improper usage or unauthorized
modification of the product, its accompanying accessories and software.
Exclusions
EXFO reserves the right to make changes in the design or construction of any of its
products at any time without incurring obligation to make any changes whatsoever
on units purchased. Accessories, including but not limited to fuses, pilot lamps,
batteries and universal interfaces (EUI) used with EXFO products are not covered by
this warranty.
This warranty excludes failure resulting from: improper use or installation, normal
wear and tear, accident, abuse, neglect, fire, water, lightning or other acts of nature,
causes external to the product or other factors beyond the control of EXFO.
IMPORTANT
EXFO will charge a fee for replacing optical connectors that were
damaged due to misuse or bad cleaning.
Certification
EXFO certifies that this equipment met its published specifications at the time of
shipment from the factory.
FVA-60023
Warranty24
Service and Repairs
EXFO commits to providing product service and repair for five years following the
date of purchase.
To send any equipment for service or repair:
1. Call one of EXFO’s authorized service centers (see EXFO Service Centers
Worl dw id e on page 25). Support personnel will determine if the equipment
requires service, repair, or calibration.
2. If equipment must be returned to EXFO or an authorized service center, support
personnel will issue a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and
provide an address for return.
3. If possible, back up your data before sending the unit for repair.
4. Pack the equipment in its original shipping material. Be sure to include a
statement or report fully detailing the defect and the conditions under which it
was observed.
5. Return the equipment, prepaid, to the address given to you by support
personnel. Be sure to write the RMA number on the shipping slip. EXFO will
refuse and return any package that does not bear an RMA number.
Note:A test setup fee will apply to any returned unit that, after test, is found to
meet the applicable specifications.
After repair, the equipment will be returned with a repair report. If the equipment is
not under warranty, you will be invoiced for the cost appearing on this report. EXFO
will pay return-to-customer shipping costs for equipment under warranty. Shipping
insurance is at your expense.
Routine recalibration is not included in any of the warranty plans. Since
calibrations/verifications are not covered by the basic or extended warranties, you
may elect to purchase FlexCare Calibration/Verification Packages for a definite
period of time. Contact an authorized service center (see EXFO Service Centers Worl dw id e on page 25).
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