EXFO IQS-1600 User Manual

IQS-1600

High Speed Power Meter for IQS Platforms

User Guide

Copyright © 2002–2008 EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, be it electronically, mechanically, or by any other means such as photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. (EXFO).

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.

Version number:

ii IQS-1600

2.0.2

Contents

Certification Information ....................................................................................................... vi

1 Introducing the IQS-1600 High Speed Power Meter .................................. 1

Main Features .........................................................................................................................1

Typical Applications ................................................................................................................4

Conventions ............................................................................................................................5

2 Safety Information ....................................................................................... 7

3 Getting Started with Your High Speed Power Meter ................................. 9

Inserting and Removing Test Modules ....................................................................................9

Starting the High Speed Power Meter Application ................................................................14

Entering Values Using Sliders and Numeric Boxes .................................................................17

Exiting the Application .........................................................................................................18

4 Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter ................................................ 19

Setting Channel Display(IQS-1620, IQS-1640) .......................................................................20

Selecting the Wavelength .....................................................................................................26

Managing Wavelength Lists ..................................................................................................27

Selecting the Measurement Unit ...........................................................................................28

Setting the Display Resolution ..............................................................................................29

Setting the Refresh Rate .......................................................................................................31

Setting the Measurement Range ..........................................................................................32

Saving and Recalling Configurations .....................................................................................35

5 Preparing Your High Speed Power Meter for a Test ................................. 37

Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers ...............................................................................37

Nulling Offsets ......................................................................................................................38

6 Measuring Power ....................................................................................... 41

Displaying Absolute Power ...................................................................................................41

Measuring Relative Power .....................................................................................................43

Selecting the Reference Value ...............................................................................................44

Editing the Reference List .....................................................................................................45

Measuring Corrected Power ..................................................................................................46

Using the Offset Function .....................................................................................................48

Averaging Measurements ....................................................................................................49

7 Recording Power Signal Variations ........................................................... 51

High Speed Power Meter iii

Contents

8 Performing Acquisitions .............................................................................55

Selecting the Sampling Type .................................................................................................56

Selecting the Acquisition Mode ............................................................................................59

Starting the Acquisition ........................................................................................................66

Consulting Acquired Data .....................................................................................................68

9 Performing and Analyzing Graph Acquisitions .........................................73

Setting Up Graph Parameters ...............................................................................................73

Printing Graph Results ..........................................................................................................76

Clearing Graph Display .........................................................................................................76

Using the Zoom Function .....................................................................................................77

Displaying and Moving Markers ...........................................................................................79

10 Using the External Trigger and Analog Outputs .......................................81

External Trigger .....................................................................................................................82

Analog Output (IQS-1610, IQS-1620) ...................................................................................83

11 Monitoring Power Meter Modules ............................................................87

Using Monitor Windows .......................................................................................................87

Using QuickTools ...................................................................................................................90

12 Typical Applications ....................................................................................93

Performing Absolute Power Measurements ..........................................................................94

Measuring Insertion Loss ......................................................................................................96

Testing Instrument Linearity ..................................................................................................98

Characterizing an Optical Switch ........................................................................................100

13 Maintenance ..............................................................................................103

Cleaning Fixed Connectors ..................................................................................................104

Cleaning Detector Ports ......................................................................................................106

Cleaning the Analog Output and External Trigger Ports ......................................................107

Recalibrating the Unit .........................................................................................................107

Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only) ..................................................108

14 Troubleshooting ........................................................................................109

Solving Common Problems .................................................................................................109

Viewing Online Documentation ..........................................................................................111

Finding Information on the EXFO Web Site ........................................................................112

Contacting the Technical Support Group ............................................................................113

Transportation ....................................................................................................................114

iv IQS-1600

Contents

15 Warranty ................................................................................................... 115

General Information ...........................................................................................................115

Liability ...............................................................................................................................115

Exclusions ...........................................................................................................................116

Certification ........................................................................................................................116

Service and Repairs .............................................................................................................117

EXFO Service Centers Worldwide ........................................................................................118

A Technical Specifications ........................................................................... 119

B SCPI Command Reference ....................................................................... 121

Quick Reference Command Tree .........................................................................................122

Product-Specific Commands—Description ..........................................................................126

Index .............................................................................................................. 225

High Speed Power Meter v

Certification Information

F.C.C. Information

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.

Use of shielded remote I/O cables, with properly grounded shields and metal connectors, is recommended in order to reduce radio frequency interference that may emanate from these cables.

IMPORTANT

vi IQS-1600

Certification Information

Application of Council Directive(s): 73/23/EEC - The Low Voltage Directive

Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. Manufacturer’s Address: 400 Godin Avenue

Equipment Type/Environment: Test & Measurement / Industrial Trade Name/Model No.: IQS-1600

Standard(s) to which Conformity is Declared:

EN 61010-1:2001 Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control,

EN 55022: 1998 +A2: 2003 Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Disturbance

EN 61326:1997 +A1:1998 +A2:2001 + A3:2003

I, the undersigned, hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the above Directive and Standards.

and Laboratory Use, Part 1: General Requirements.

Characteristics of Information Technology Equipment.

Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Use - EMC Requirements

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

89/336/EEC - The EMC Directive And their amendments

Quebec, Quebec Canada G1M 2K2 (418) 683-0211

High-Speed Power Meter

Manufacturer

Signature:

Full Name: Stephen Bull, E. Eng Position: Vice-President Research and

Address:

Date: January 7, 2002

Development

400 Godin Avenue, Quebec (Quebec), Canada, G1M 2K2

High Speed Power Meter vii

1 Introducing the IQS-1600 High

Speed Power Meter

Designed for the IQS platforms, the IQS-1600 High Speed Power Meter is a module available in three different models. It is used with the OHS-1700 Optical Head.

Main Features

The IQS-1600 High Speed Power Meter is offered in different configurations:

³ Standard option—IQS-1600 Series

³ Low-PDL option—IQS-1600-PL Series

³ Wide-Area Detector (3 mm) option—IQS-1600W Series

All configurations come in the single-, dual- or quadruple-connector models.

High Speed Power Meter 1

Introducing the IQS-1600 High Speed Power Meter

Main Features

IQS-1610 IQS-1620 IQS-1640

Analog

output

port

ANALOG OUT

EXT. TRIG

IQS-1600

Power Meter

ANALOG OUT

IQS-1600

2-Ch Power Meter

EXT. TRIG

IQS-1600

4-Ch Power Meter

adapter

Optical detector port

External trigger

Fiber-optic

port (SMB

Sync

connector)

Out

Sync In Trig

Retaining screw knob

LED push button

External trigger port (SMB connector)

External connector (used only with the IQS-12004B system)

It features a high sampling rate and fast stabilization, and comes in one-, two- or four-channel options (each detector is independent). It also provides you with power level and TTL voltage synchronization triggers. The synchronization triggers will operate simultaneously on dual- and quadruple-channel models.

The graphical display mode shows all channels on a real-time graph, which you can analyze afterwards.

The IQS-1600 High Speed Power Meter supports local control (via the IQS Manager software) and remote control (through GPIB, RS-232, or Ethernet TCP/IP using SCPI commands or the provided LabVIEW drivers). For more information, refer to the IQS platform user guide.

2 IQS-1600

Introducing the IQS-1600 High Speed Power Meter

Main Features

Moreover, a special model was designed for the IQS-12004B DWDM Passive Component Test System The IQS-1643T-PL-SN presents specifications that are very close to the IQS-1643-PL-SN standalone module.

Every customer purchasing the IQS-12004B system for applications covering both the C- and L-bands will receive an IQS-1643T-PL-SN. Even though the power meter has been modified to work in the IQS-12004B system, it can still be used as a standalone unit using an IQS-500 Intelligent Test System.

Both the facia of the module and the title bar in the software reflect whether you are using an IQS-1643T-PL-SN or a standard IQS-1643-PL-SN.

Note: The instrument is only guaranteed within the IQS-12004B operating

temperature range of 23

C ±3 oC. Any other functionality or specification, particularly those concerning the accuracy and linearity of the instrument, will not be affected by the design change to the IQS-1600T-PL-SN.

High Speed Power Meter 3

Introducing the IQS-1600 High Speed Power Meter

Typic a l A pp l icatio n s

Typical Applications

Your power meter is suitable for numerous applications, including the following:

³ Insertion loss of passive components in the production environment

³ Component and system monitoring

³ Source stability characterization

³ Absolute power measurements

³ Manual or automated splice loss measurement

³ Characterization of MUX/DEMUX, used in conjuction with a tunable

laser source, or within the IQS-12004B DWDM Passive Component Test System

³ Optical switch characterization (switching time, insertion loss)

³ Measurement on bare or unconnectorized fibers

4 IQS-1600

Introducing the IQS-1600 High Speed Power Meter

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.

High Speed Power Meter 5

2 Safety Information

Your power meter does not contain laser components in itself. However, you will be using it with light sources.

WARNING

Do not install or terminate fibers while a light 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.

High Speed Power Meter 7

3 Getting Started with Your

High Speed Power Meter

This chapter contains information on how to insert and remove test modules. You will also find how to connect your optical head to your power meter and how to start and exit the application.

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

CAUTION

Never insert or remove a module while the controller unit and its expansion units are turned on. This will result in immediate and irreparable damage to both the module and unit.

To insert a module into the controller or expansion unit:

1. Exit IQS Manager and turn off all your units.

2. Remove the protective cover from the desired unused module slot.

2a. Pull the retaining screw knob firmly towards you and release the

bottom of the cover.

2b. Gently pull the top of the protective cover downwards, to remove

it from the unit grooves.

Protective cover

Retaining screw

knob

High Speed Power Meter 9

Getting Started with Your High Speed Power Meter

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

3. Position the module so that its front panel is facing you and the top and bottom protruding edges are to your right.

4. Insert the protruding edges of the module into the grooves of the unit’s module slot.

Protruding edges (right side of module)

Retaining screw knob

Retaining screw

5. Push the module all the way to the back of the slot, until the retaining screw makes contact with the unit casing.

6. While applying slight pressure to the module, turn the retaining screw knob (located at the bottom of the panel) clockwise until the knob is horizontal.

This will secure the module into its “seated” position.

10 IQS-1600

Getting Started with Your High Speed Power Meter

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

The module is correctly inserted when its front panel is flush with the front panel of the controller or expansion unit.

When you turn on the controller unit, the startup sequence will automatically detect your module.

Note: You can insert IQ modules into your controller or expansion unit; the

IQS Manager software will recognize them. However, the IQS-1600 locking mechanism (retaining screw) will not work for IQ modules.

To remove a module from your controller or expansion unit:

1. While pulling gently on the knob, turn it counterclockwise until it stops.

The module will slowly be released from the slot.

Retaining screw knob

High Speed Power Meter 11

Getting Started with Your High Speed Power Meter

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

2. Place your fingers underneath the module or hold it by the retaining screw knob (NOT by the connector) and pull it out.

Connector

YES

Retaining screw

knob

CAUTION

Pulling out a module by a connector could seriously damage both the module and connector. Always pull out a module by the retaining screw knob.

3. Cover empty slots with the supplied protective covers.

3a. Slide the top of the protective cover into the upper grooves of the

unit.

3b. Snap the cover into place by pushing the retaining screw knob.

12 IQS-1600

Getting Started with Your High Speed Power Meter

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

CAUTION

Failure to reinstall protective covers over empty slots will result in ventilation problems.

High Speed Power Meter 13

Getting Started with Your High Speed Power Meter

Starting the High Speed Power Meter Application

Your IQS-1600 High Speed Power Meter module can be configured and controlled from its dedicated IQS Manager application.

Note: For details about IQS Manager, refer to the IQS platform user guide.

To start the application:

1. From the Current Modules function tab select the module to use.

It will turn white to indicate that it is highlighted.

2. Click Start Application.

Press the green LED push button on the front of the corresponding module.

You can also double-click its row.

Note: Pressing the LED push button will not activate or turn on the module.

Note: To start the corresponding monitor window at the same time, click Start

App. & Monitor. The window opens on the Monitors function tab.

The main window (shown below) contains all the commands required to control the High Speed Power Meter:

14 IQS-1600

Data

display

Parameter

definition

controls

Getting Started with Your High Speed Power Meter

Starting the High Speed Power Meter Application

Title bar

Function buttons

Status bar

High Speed Power Meter 15

Getting Started with Your High Speed Power Meter

Starting the High Speed Power Meter Application

Title Bar

The title bar is located at the top of the main window. It displays the module name and its position in the controller or expansion unit. The module position is identified as follows:

Controller unit or expansion unit (1 to 999) housing the module

Slot number in which module is inserted (0 identifies first slot)

[ 999 – 1 ]

Status Bar

The status bar, located at the bottom of the main window, identifies the operational status of the IQS-1600 High Speed Power Meter.

Control mode

Local: Module controlled locally only.

Remote: Module controlled remotely, but

local commands can also be used.

Lockout: Module controlled remotely only.

Current date and timeModule/unit status

For more information about automating or remotely controlling the IQS-1600 High Speed Power Meter, refer to your platform user guide.

16 IQS-1600

Getting Started with Your High Speed Power Meter

Entering Values Using Sliders and Numeric Boxes

Many parameters in IQS Manager and module applications can be set using the following tools.

Slider

Fine-tuning

box

Navigation buttons

³ Slider: Drag it to the desired value on the scale below.

³ Navigation buttons: Click either buttons to move the slider. The slider

moves by steps corresponding to the number in the fine-tuning box, which you can change by using the up and down arrow buttons next to the box. You cannot change the list of fine-tuning values from here.

³ Numeric box: Click it to display the on-screen numeric pad, which you

can use to enter a powe value.

Numeric box button

To enter a value using the numeric box:

1. Use the button to clear the entry display.

Parameter identification

Entry display

Clear button

Toggle button

Backspace button (to correct a value)

2. Enter the value.

3. Click OK to confirm the value.

High Speed Power Meter 17

Getting Started with Your High Speed Power Meter

Exiting the Application

Closing any application that is not currently being used is a good way to free system memory.

To close the application from the main window:

Click in the top right corner of the main window.

Click the Exit button located at the bottom of the function bar.

To close all currently running applications:

From IQS Manager, click Close All Applications.

18 IQS-1600

4 Setting Up Your High Speed

Power Meter

You can set the following paameters on your IQS-1600:

³ Chanel display

³ Wavelength selection and management

³ Measurement unit selection

³ Display resolution

³ Refresh rate

³ Measurement range

³ Saving and recalling configuration

High Speed Power Meter 19

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Setting Channel Display(IQS-1620, IQS-1640)

The channel display allows you to select which channels you want to view when using a multichannel power meter. You can display up to three optical channels using a dual-channel power meter (the two normal channels, plus the virtual channel) and up to four optical channels using a four-channel power meter. These channels may include one or two virtual channels respectively.

To set the channel displayon IQS-1620 or IQS-1640 models:

1. From the Instrument function tab, click the Display tab to view the

available channels.

2. Select the desired channel.

The data display immediately reflects your selection and the selected channel indicator will turn light green.

20 IQS-1600

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Setting Channel Display(IQS-1620, IQS-1640)

Selecting a Channel (IQS-1620, IQS-1640)

The IQS-1620 and IQS-1640 have two and four independent optical channels respectively.

To select an optical channel:

From the Instrument function tab, go to Channel and use the arrow buttons next to the channel number to change it.

Click the appropriate data display zone.

A colored frame will indicate your selection.

High Speed Power Meter 21

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Setting Channel Display(IQS-1620, IQS-1640)

Selecting a Virtual Channel (IQS-1620, IQS-1640)

In addition to the optical channels, your application offers one virtual channel for the dual-channel power meter and two virtual channels for the quadruple-channel power meter.

A virtual channel is a combination (sum or difference when using dB or dBm as units, product or ratio when using watts or watts/watts as units— see the table on page 24) of the measured power from any two optical channels. This feature provides an extremely flexible comparative measurement display. A virtual channel is used and controlled in the same way as an optical channel.

The virtual channel is an excellent tool for comparing two optical channels. For example, if two devices (connected to channels 1 and 2) are supposed to have identical power levels, displaying a virtual channel (defined as channel 1 minus channel 2) provides quick monitoring of both devices and indicates any power fluctuations. You may also want to reference the drift of a source in real time by cancelling it out in a virtual channel.

22 IQS-1600

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Setting Channel Display(IQS-1620, IQS-1640)

To define a virtual channel:

1. Click on the Settings function tab, then select the Virtual Channels

tab.

2. Click on the desired virtual channel (when using a dual-channel power meter, only virtual channel 1 is available).

Note: If you change settings, such as the units or trigger options, in the Channels

tab, your virtual channel(s) may be deactivated. Ensure your settings are defined before selecting one or more virtual channels.

3. Click on Active to use the channel, then enter a name for it if desired.

4. In the first box of the Operation area, select the first optical channel

using the arrow buttons.

5. In the second box, select the virtual channel operator (+, −, *, or /).

6. In the third box, select the second channel in the same way.

7. Click on Apply to set the virtual channel.

High Speed Power Meter 23

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Setting Channel Display(IQS-1620, IQS-1640)

Since operations between channels cannot be made with any type of measurement unit, the second channel and the operator can be selected according to the unit of the first channel as described in the following table.

First

Channel Unit

Second

Channel Unit

Virtual Channel Unit and

Allowed Operators

dBm dBm dB (operator −) dBm dB dBm (operators + and −)

dB dBm dBm (operator +) dB dB dB (operators + and −) W W W/W (operator /)

W W/W W (operators * and /) W/W W W (operator *) W/W W/W W/W (operators * and /)

Note: Since a virtual channel consists of a mathematical operation using two

optical channels, the only parameter that can be set for a virtual channel is its name.

24 IQS-1600

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Setting Channel Display(IQS-1620, IQS-1640)

Naming Channels

A user-selected name can be given to each power meter channel, including virtual channels. The channel name appears in the main window. Naming individual channels is particularly useful when you need to display more than one power channel at the same time, especially in Monitor Window mode with several optical power meters displayed simultaneously. The name should be as self-explanatory as possible (for example, Power-Fiber 3).

To enter a channel name:

1. Click the Settings function tab.

2. From the Channels tab, select the channel to name by clicking the

corresponding button.

3. Type in a self-explanatory name in the Name box.

4. Click Apply to confirm your new setting.

High Speed Power Meter 25

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Selecting the Wavelength

When taking accurate measurements, your power meter must be set to the correct wavelength to compensate for the photodetector responsivity at the incident wavelength. Ideally, the power meter’s wavelength should be set as close as possible to that of the optical source being used.

The wavelength must be selected from the wavelength list. To set the wavelength list, see Managing Wavelength Lists on page 27.

To select the wavelength (either from the Instrument or Settings function tab):

1. Select the channel for which you want to set the wavelength

(if you have a multiple-channel power meter).

Wavelength field

2. Select the wavelength using the arrow buttons next to the λ list.

3. If you are in the Channels tab of the Settings function tab, click Apply

to confirm your new setting.

Note: You can also use the All Channels button to modify all channels identically.

Values previously set will turn red to indicate that the new setting differs.

26 IQS-1600

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Managing Wavelength Lists

The wavelengths you want to use with your IQS-1600 and OHS-1700 must be entered in the Wavelength list. Please refer to the Certificate of Compliance supplied with your power meter for information on the wavelength range.

To add a wavelength to the list:

1. From the Settings function tab, select the Lists tab.

In the New Value list, enter the wavelength value to be added.You can enter a value with a 0.01 nm resolution.

2. Click to confirm the new wavelength.

Note: A warning message is displayed if the new wavelength is not within the

power meter’s wavelength range.

To delete a wavelength from the list:

1. From the Settings function tab, click the List tab.

2. From, the Wavelength list,select the wavelength to be deleted.

3. Click to confirm the operation.

Note: It is not possible to delete a wavelength that is currently being used.

High Speed Power Meter 27

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Selecting the Measurement Unit

Power measurements can be displayed in dB, dBm, W, or W/W (the latter indicating the ratio between the power received and the reference for the current wavelength and channel). When W or W/W is selected, the software automatically selects W units (pW, nW, μW, mW), depending on the measured power and sensitivity of the detector.

When a relative unit is selected (dB or W/W), the most recent reference value used will become the current reference value.

To select the measurement unit (either from the Instrument or Settings function tab):

1. Select the channel for which you want to set the measurement unit

(if you have a multiple-channel power meter).

2. Use the arrow buttons next to the Unit list to change the value.

3. click Apply to confirm your new setting.

Note: You can also use the All Channels button to modify all channels identically.

If other values were set before, but are different from those you are setting, any value you change will turn red to indicate that it is different.

28 IQS-1600

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Setting the Display Resolution

Depending on the required resolution and operating power level, 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 digits can be displayed after the decimal point. When the auto setting is selected, the display resolution is determined by the power level being measured.

Note: The Auto marker in the data display does not refer to the automatic display

resolution but to the measurement range (see Setting the Measurement Range on page 32).

To select the display resolution of a power measurement expressed in dB or dBm:

1. Click the Settings function tab, then click the Channels tab.

If necessary, select the channel for which you want to set the display resolution.

High Speed Power Meter 29

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Setting the Display Resolution

2. Use the arrow buttons to select the value in the Display Res. list.

If you have previously selected watts as units, the Display Res. list will be grayed out.

3. Click Apply to confirm your new setting.

Note: You can also use the All Channels button to modify all channels at once. If

other values were set previously, but are different from those you are currently setting, any value you change will turn red to indicate that it is different.

Note: When W or W/W is selected, the display resolution changes to Auto (the

appropriate W unit will be used according to the power of the signal detected). It is then impossible to access the display resolution list.

30 IQS-1600

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Setting the Refresh Rate

This function allows you to define the refresh rate of the power readings on the display. The refresh rate is the number of times per second that a new power measurement will be displayed on the screen. The refresh rate applies to all channels when using a multichannel power meter.

To set the refresh rate:

1. From the Instrument tab, select the Display tab.

2. Use the arrow buttons to select the refresh rate you want to use.

Note: The refresh rate can be faster or slower than the sampling rate; however,

only a refresh rate slower than the sampling rate will have an effect.

High Speed Power Meter 31

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Setting the Measurement Range

The measurement range and gain scale applied to the power detector can be manually selected to prevent the automatic scale adjustment performed by the instrument. A manual adjustment of the dynamic gain scale will lock the measurement range to a specific level.

The measuring range should be locked when the analog output is used— seeUsing the External Trigger and Analog Outputs on page 81—in order to avoid variations in voltage outputs due to an automatic switch of gain scales. It is also necessary to use a manual range to achieve high-rate acquisitions (see Performing Acquisitions on page 55).

Two manual ranges are available:

The Low range (LR1 to LR6) provides a lower dynamic range (typically 35 dB) per scale with better signal-to-noise ratio and resolution. The High range (HR1 to HR4) provides a higher dynamic range (typically 42 dB) per scale with a lower signal-to-noise ratio.

Each channel is adjusted independently in the case of a multichannel power meter.

32 IQS-1600

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Setting the Measurement Range

To set the measurement range:

1. Click the Settings function tab, then select the Channels tab.

2. If necessary, select the channel for which you want to set the range.

3. Use the arrow buttons next to the Range list to select the range you

want to use.

Note: Select Manual range for a Continuous acquisition when the input signal

has unstable or modulated variations. This prevents !!!!!!! from appearing on the display when changing gain cales often.

High Speed Power Meter 33

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Setting the Measurement Range

4. Use the arrow buttons next to the Scale list and highlight the scale you wish to use.

The table on the following page displays the permitted scales when the currently selected measurement unit is dB or dBm. The power values displayed are typical at 1550 nm.

Permitted Scales

Low Range (LR) High Range (HR)

−3.90 to 18.30 dBm (LR1)

−12.50 to 9.90 dBm (LR2)

−32.49 to −10.09 dBm (LR3) −58.29 to −10.09 dBm (HR3)

−52.27 to −29.87 dBm (LR4) −78.00 to −29.87 dBm (HR4)

−29.60 to 18.30 dBm (HR1)

−38.20 to 9.90 dBm (HR2)

−72.01 to −49.61 dBm (LR5)

—

(−64.60 to −44.04 dBm for 16XXW models)

−90.00 to −69.61 dBm (LR6)

—

(−75.00 to −64.10 dBm for 16XXW models)

a. InGaAs detector has a +9 dBm saturation limit for a 1 mm detector, and +8 dBm

saturation limit for a 3 mm detector.

Note: You can have a high acquisition rate only if a manual range is set on all

channels.

5. Click Apply to confirm your new setting.

Note: You can also use the All Channels button to modify all channels identically.

If other values were set previously, but are different from those you are currently setting, any value you change will turn red to indicate that it is different.

34 IQS-1600

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Saving and Recalling Configurations

Once you have set the IQS-1600 High Speed Power Meter parameters, you can save your custom configuration and recall it at any time. You can also recall the factory-defined settings.

Saved configurations include all parameters set in the Control Center (Instrument function tab) and in the Settings function tab (if present).

To save a configuration:

1. Select the Configuration function tab.

To always use the last saved parameters when starting.

To save parameters being used just before shutting down, overwriting the previous file.

2. In the Current Module Configuration panel, enter the name you wish to use for your configuration file.

It will be saved in D:\IQS Manager\Configuration Files\(your_module)\.

3. Click Save.

High Speed Power Meter 35

Setting Up Your High Speed Power Meter

Saving and Recalling Configurations

To recall a configuration:

1. Select the Configuration function tab.

2. Click Open.

3. Select the configuration file you wish to recall and confirm your action.

You are returned to the application and the new parameters are set.

To revert to factory settings:

1. Select the Configuration function tab.

2. Click the Reset Module to Factory Settings button.

IMPORTANT

Reverting to the factory settings will interrupt any module operation in progress.

IMPORTANT

The operation may take a few seconds to complete.

Note: Reverting to factory settings will not change the name given to the

channels. It will not change the user reference or correction factor lists either.

36 IQS-1600

5 Preparing Your High Speed

Power Meter for a Test

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. Clean the fiber ends as follows:

1a. Gently wipe the fiber end with a lint-free swab dipped in isopropyl

alcohol.

1b. Use compressed air to dry completely.

1c. Visually inspect the fiber end to ensure its cleanliness.

2. 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.

3. 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.

High Speed Power Meter 37

Preparing Your High Speed Power Meter for a Test

Nulling Offsets

Temperature and humidity variations affect the performance of electronic circuits and optical detectors, which can offset measurement results. To compensate for this offset, the unit is equipped with an offset nulling function.

Your unit is designed not to require offset nulling under normal operation, but you should perform it whenever environmental conditions change significantly or when measuring very low power values.

Your IQS-1600 High Speed Power Meter automatically performs nulling of the offset each time you turn it on.

However, you might need to perform a manual nulling of the offset when environmental conditions change significantly or when you are measuring very low power.

Note: The manual nulling offset is valid for the current test session only; it no

longer applies when you turn off your power meter. The next time you turn it on, the automatic offset nulling is performed again. You will achieve better results if you perform the manual offset nulling at a temperature around 23

C after a running period of 45 minutes.

IMPORTANT

When the application is launched after a cold start, allow the power meter to warm up for about 20 minutes (30 minutes for IQS-1600W modules) until the electronics stabilize before nulling offsets.

IMPORTANT

Light must not reach the detector when performing an offset nulling operation. Always use a protective screw cap. Do not use a soft rubber cover

38 IQS-1600

Preparing Your High Speed Power Meter for a Test

Nulling Offsets

To perform an offset nulling on one channel:

1. Install the protective cap over the detector port.

2. If necessary, select the desired channel (on a multichannel high-speed

power meter).

To set the channel, see Selecting a Channel (IQS-1620, IQS-1640) on page 21.

Offset nulling values are applied to the channel until a new nulling is performed.

3. Under Channel, click the Nulling button. A message prompts you to ensure that the detector cap is properly installed.

4. Select OK to perform the offset nulling, or Cancel to exit.

A red message appears beneath the power value of the channel for which you are performing a nulling.

If you are using a multichannel power meter, you will notice that the other channels will stop reading power while nulling is in progress.

High Speed Power Meter 39

Preparing Your High Speed Power Meter for a Test

Nulling Offsets

To perform an offset nulling on all channels (two- and four-channel power meters):

1. Install the protective caps over all of the detector ports.

2. Under Nulling, click the All Channels button.

Offset nulling values are applied to the channel until a new nulling is performed. A message prompts you to ensure that the detector caps are properly installed.

3. Click OK to perform the offset nulling, or Cancel to exit.

A red message appears beneath the power value of the channel for which you are performing a nulling.

40 IQS-1600

6 Measuring Power

Power measurements can be displayed in two ways:

³ absolute

³ relative

It is also possible to use a correction factor at specific wavelengths and to add an offset value to your power measurement.

Displaying Absolute Power

When in absolute power, measured values are displayed in either dBm or W units (pW, nW, μW, mW...) and the displayed value represents the absolute optical power reaching the detector within specified uncertainty.

High Speed Power Meter 41

Measuring Power

Displaying Absolute Power

To display absolute power:

1. Select the Instrument function tab or the Channels tab of the Settings

function tab (you can use either).

2. Select the channel for which you want to set the offset if you are using a multichannel power meter.

Note: Step 3 is not mandatory, but will help you achieve more precise results).

3. Select the appropriate wavelength by using the arrow buttons next to

the corresponding list.

4. Select the appropriate unit by using the arrow buttons next to the corresponding list.

5. If you are in the Settings function tab, click Apply to confirm your new setting.

6. Return to the Instrument function tab and click Absolute to activate the mode.

An absolute power measurement in negative W units indicates that the nulling of the offset was improperly done. If this happens, repeat the offset nulling operation (see Nulling Offsets on page 38).

42 IQS-1600

Measuring Power

Measuring Relative Power

Power measurements can be displayed as a deviation from an absolute reference value. The relative power is particularly useful when performing loss measurements.

Relative power is displayed in dB when the reference value is measured in dBm. In this case, the value will be either positive or negative, as the actual measured power is higher or lower than the reference power.

If the reference value is in W, the relative power will be displayed in W/W. In this case, the relative power is the deviation ratio from the reference and will always be a positive value (unless operation was improperly done).

To display significant relative power values, it is important to have an appropriate reference value, which you activate by clicking the Reference button in the Instrument function tab.You can either apply the current module power as a reference or edit a value to be used as the reference.

High Speed Power Meter 43

Measuring Power

Selecting the Reference Value

The reference value influences your measurements once selected and activated. Whether you select the current module’s power or a set value from the list, this becomes the basis for your future acquisitions.

To select the reference value:

1. From the Settings function tab, select the Channels tab.

2. Use the arrow buttons next to Reference to select either the current

module’s power or a value from the list, which you can then edit as explained in the following section.

3. Click Apply to confirm your new setting.

4. From the Instrument function tab, click the Reference button to use

your new reference value.

44 IQS-1600

Measuring Power

Editing the Reference List

The Reference list can be changed to adapt to your testing requirements.

To add a reference to the list:

1. From the Settings function tab, select the Lists tab.

2. Under Reference List, enter the name of the new reference value in

the Name box.

3. In the Ref (dBm) box, enter a reference between −100.000 dBm and

100.000 dBm.

4. Click to enter the value.

Note: Although the wavelength list applies to all channels, the selected reference

applies to the wavelength and channel at which it was set.

High Speed Power Meter 45

Measuring Power

Measuring Corrected Power

To delete a user reference from the list:

1. From the Settings function tab, select the Lists tab.

2. Select the value to remove by clicking it once.

3. Click to remove the value.

Measuring Corrected Power

Applying a correction factor to the measured power is useful when compensating for known inaccuracies (power gains or losses) at specific wavelengths.

A correction factor (CF) can be applied to any measurement that is displayed in either dB, dBm, W, or W/W.

When a dB correction factor different from 0.000 is defined, the displayed power is equal to the actual power plus the value of the correction factor. When a W/W correction factor different from 1.000 is defined, the displayed power is equal to the actual power times the value of the correction factor.

Note: With an active correction factor, the CF marker appears in the data display

for the matching channel.

Note: Special care must be taken when setting a CF as it emulates a new

calibration (the module calibration is not affected and will be restored by setting back the CF to a null value).

When expressed in dB, the CF can be a positive or negative value. When the currently selected measurement unit is W, the correction factor is expressed in W/W, indicating a multiplication factor for the current wavelength and channel. The CF expressed in W/W will always be a positive value.

46 IQS-1600

Measuring Power

Measuring Corrected Power

To set a correction factor:

1. From the Settings function tab, select the Channels tab.

2. Select the channel for which you want to set the CF (in the case of a

two- or four-channel power meter).

3. Select the wavelength to which the CF will be applied by using the up and down arrow buttons next to the list or by clicking it once in the Correction Factors list.

4. In the Factor (unit) box, enter a CF between −10.000 dB and

10.000 dB, or between 0.100 W/W and 10.000 W/W, then click .

Note: Although the wavelength list applies to all channels, the CF applies to the

wavelength and channel at which it was set.

To remove the offset from a wavelength, select the wavelength, then click .

High Speed Power Meter 47

Measuring Power

Using the Offset Function

The offset function is used when you want to take into account, in the power displayed, a known gain or loss in the link that is not already included in the signal reaching the detector.Contrary to the correction factor, which applies to a specific wavelength, the offset value applies to any wavelength when it is enabled in a specific channel.

To enter an offset value:

1. From the Settings function tab, select the Channels tab.

2. Select the channel for which you want to set the offset if you are using

a multichannel power meter.

3. From the Offset list, use the arrow buttons to adjust the value.

4. Click Apply to confirm your new setting.

48 IQS-1600

Measuring Power

Averaging Measurements

When the averaging function is enabledIQS-1600 High Speed Power Meter, the most recent measurement samples, for which you can set the number, are used to compute an unweighted average. This average is displayed as the measured value. The AVG marker will also be displayed to the right of the value for the matching channel, indicating that averaging is enabled.

If n < M, then

yn[]

-- -

xn[]⋅ 1

⎛⎞

-- -

–

⎝⎠

yn 1–[]⋅+=

If n ≥ M, then

yn[]

---- M

xn[]⋅ 1

⎛⎞

---- -

–

yn 1–[]⋅+=

⎝⎠

Where

³ n is the number of the current acquisition

³ M is the number of points to average (value you set)

³ x[n] is the current sample in watts

³ y[n] is the result of the present average in watts

³ y[n-1] is the value before the average in watts

Note: When measurement conditions change, the number of the acquisition is

reset to zero in order to start a new averaging measurement with the new settings.

To select the number of samples for averaging, whether you are in the Instrument function tab or the Channels tab of the Settings function tab, use the arrow buttons to change the value in the Average (in the Settings function tab) or Averaging (in the Instrument function tab) lists.

High Speed Power Meter 49

Measuring Power

Averaging Measurements

If you are setting the average value in the Instrument function tab, you must first press the Averaging button to activate the list.

Average /Averaging lists

To toggle between averaged and unaveraged power measurement:

1. If necessary, select the desired channel from the Instrument function

tab.

2. Click the Averaging button to activate or deactivate it.

50 IQS-1600

7 Recording Power Signal

Variations

The Min./Max. function allows you to record the extremes of a varying power signal when performing a continuous acquisition. For example, it could be used to determine the stability of a light source over time or to measure the polarization-dependent loss (PDL) of a passive component when combined with a polarization state controller.

The function is started manually and can be stopped manually or automatically using the timer function. Minimum (Min.) and maximum (Max.) values can be recorded and displayed in any measurement unit (dB, dBm, W, or W/W; see Selecting the Measurement Unit on page 28). In logarithmic scales (dB and dBm), the difference between the maximum and minimum values is expressed as Max.−Min. In linear scales (W and W/W), the difference is expressed as a ratio (Min./Max.).

To use the Min./Max. function:

1. Select the Continuous acquisition rate (see Selecting the Sampling

Typ e on page 56).

High Speed Power Meter 51

Recording Power Signal Variations

2. Select the channel for which you want to see the power variation data on-screen by clicking the corresponding buttons in the Min./Max. tab.

In the case of dual-channel power meters, you can select up to three channels (the two normal channels, plus the virtual channel) and in the case of the four-channel power meter, you can select up to six channels, including the virtual channels.

Note: For four-channel power meters, since the display allows only four channels

to be viewed at once, you will have to modify your display, either during or after your acquisition in order to view the remaining two channels.

3. If you want to specify the duration of power measurements, click the

Use Timer button, then enter a span using the arrow buttons on each side of the list. If you are using the numeric box to enter a time value, you must enter it in seconds (for example, 120 seconds for 2 minutes).

Selecti indicat

4. Click Start to start power measurements.

52 IQS-1600

Recording Power Signal Variations

These can be stopped at any time by clicking Stop. If the timer is set, power measurements will stop automatically after the specified duration.

Note: The remaining duration is indicated under the Start and Stop button.

The Reset button will reinitialize the Min./Max. acquisition results in the data display.

The results of the Min./Max. function are continuously updated in the matching lists. When a logarithmic scale is used, the Max.−Min. calculation is made to continuously provides the difference between the two extremes. In a linear scale, the Min./Max. ratio is computed to provide valuable information.

³ If the power reaches the saturation level, +++++++ will be

recorded as the Max. value. The Max.-Min. or Min./Max. calculation will also be +++++++.

³ If the detected power decreases below the lowest measurable power,

the Min. value will be ––––––– and both Max.-Min. or Min./Max. will display –––––––.

³ If a Min./Max. calculation is made with a null Min. value, !!!!!!! will

be displayed.

³ If a channel is shown in the data display but is not part of the selected

channels for a Min./Max. acquisition, ******* will be displayed to indicate that no power reading is being performed at that time.

Selecting Autorange for this channel will prevent these symbols from appearing.

High Speed Power Meter 53

8 Performing Acquisitions

You can perform your acquisition on one or several channels at the same time (in the case of multichannel power meters).

To select which channel will be affected by your acquisition:

1. From the Settings function tab, select the Data Acquisition tab.

2. Press on the corresponding button in the Channels To Be Included in

Sample.

To select a path for storing your acquisitions:

1. From the Settings function tab, select the Data Acquisition tab.

2. Use to select the folder to save your file.

High Speed Power Meter 55

Performing Acquisitions

Selecting the Sampling Type

You can perform different types of samplings with your power meter:

³ Continuous sampling signifies that power measurements are

constantly updated on the measurement display for an unlimited time period. You can select a rate that will optimize instrument flexibility and measurement stability as well as determine the quantity of data generated during data acquisition.

³ Single sampling signifies that power measurements will be taken

once, at the rate you have selected. This type of acquisition is particularly useful when using a high acquisition rate, since the higher the rate, the more data is transmitted. It will be easier for your power meter module to manage one huge input of points as opposed to several at the same time (it will stop analyzing if overwhelmed by data).

³ User Defined sampling signifies that you can enter the rate and the

time units you wish to use. The value you enter in the 1/ list is the number of time units the acquisition process will use. For example, if you enter a value of 10, and select seconds as the unit, an acquisition will be performed once every ten seconds; if you enter a value of 1 and select seconds as the unit, an acquisition will occur every second, etc.

56 IQS-1600

Performing Acquisitions

Selecting the Sampling Type

To select a sampling type:

1. From the Settings function tab, select the Data Acquisition tab.

2. Select the sampling type by clicking the corresponding button.

If you select Continuous, select the rate to use with the arrow buttons.

The acquisition rate applies to all channels when using a multichannel power meter.

High Speed Power Meter 57

Performing Acquisitions

Selecting the Sampling Type

You can also change the continuous sampling rate in the Instrument function tab in the same manner.

If you select Single, select the rate to use with the arrow buttons. The acquisition rate applies to all channels when using a multichannel power meter.

Note: If a Single acquisition rate is selected while one or more channels have

been set to autoranging power measurement (seeSetting the Measurement Range on page 32), the file acquisition will not start and a warning message will prompt you to set a manual power measurement range for the channels concerned.

If you select User Defined, select the rate by entering a value in the 1/ list, then select a time unit using the arrow buttons. Remember to click

to confirm your settings.

Note: Use a lower sampling rate with averaging set to active (see Averaging

Measurements on page 49) for greater repeatability when measuring very

low power.

58 IQS-1600

Performing Acquisitions

Selecting the Acquisition Mode

You can use three data acquisition modes, regardless of the type of acquisition you are performing.

³ Timer: the acquisition will last for the length of time you have

previously set.

³ Trigger: the power meter will wait for an incoming trigger signal

before starting its next acquisition.

³ Delay: the power meter will wait for a set length of time between

acquisitions.

Note: You can use one, several or all modes at the same time. If you use both the

trigger and delay modes simultaneously, the power meter will first wait for the set delay time to elapse, then wait again for the incoming trigger signal. If you add the timer mode, the acquisitions will be performed during a set length of time, using both the trigger and delay modes.

In each case, measurements are taken at the selected sampling rate and saved to a user-specified data file. The size of the data files created during acquisition is proportional to the sampling rate and duration of the acquisition. Higher sampling rates and longer durations generate larger quantities of data.

High Speed Power Meter 59

Performing Acquisitions

Selecting the Acquisition Mode

To select the acquisition mode:

1. From the Settings function tab, select the Data Acquisition tab.

2. From Mode, select the desired mode or combination of modes.

60 IQS-1600

Performing Acquisitions

Selecting the Acquisition Mode

Setting Up Timed Acquisition Duration

A timed acquisition starts when you start the process, and continues for the time you have previously specified.

To set the duration for your acquisition:

Click inside the Timer edit box of the Data Acquisition tab and enter the value (or use the arrow buttons next to the list to adjust it).

If you are using the numeric box, enter the value in seconds (for example, 120 seconds if you want to enter two minutes).

The acquisition length displayed for a single acquisition includes the time set in the Settings tab for the acquisition, plus the time needed to transfer data according to the sampling rate selected. During the acquisition, you will notice the message Acquisition in progress, then Data transfer in progress in the Instrument function tab. If you click Stop before the data transfer is complete, you will lose your acquisition data.

High Speed Power Meter 61

Performing Acquisitions

Selecting the Acquisition Mode

Setting Up Delayed Acquisition Delay

Delayed acquisition starts at a specified time after you start the process, and continues for the time you have previously specified if you have selected a combination of Timed and Delayed acquisition types.

To set a delay for your acquisition:

1. From the Data Acquisition tab, locate Delay.

2. Click inside the corresponding edit box and enter the value using the

numeric box, or use the arrow buttons to adjust the value.

If you are using the numeric box, enter the value in seconds (for example, 120 seconds if you want to enter two minutes).

62 IQS-1600

Performing Acquisitions

Selecting the Acquisition Mode

Setting Trigger Acquisition Parameters

Conditional data acquisition can be performed using a triggered acquisition, meaning that data recording begins when a specified condition is met. Different trigger conditions are available, which are explained in the following table, where A and/or B represent the channel on which the condition is to be met, and x and/or y represent the desired power level threshold.

Trigger Description

A > x Acquisition will start when measured power is greater

than the specified x value.

A < x Acquisition will start when measured power is lower

than the specified x value.

A > x AND A < y Acquisition will start when measured power in

channel A is inside the interval set by the values xandy.

A or B < x Acquisition will start when power in either channel A

or channel B is lower than the specified x value.

x<A or B<y (multichannel

power meters only)

Acquisition will start when measured power in channel A goes over a specified value (A > x).

OR Acquisition will start when measured power in

channel B falls under a specified value (B < y).

A<B (multichannel

Acquisition will start when measured power of channel A is lower than measured power of channel B.

power meters only)

External trigger Acquisition in single rate will be triggered by an

external signal, whether on positive or negative TTL voltage transitions (SeeExternal Trigger on page 82 for additional information on this feature).

High Speed Power Meter 63

Performing Acquisitions

Selecting the Acquisition Mode

Note: The trigger defines the condition for starting data acquisition. Once begun,

acquisitions will continue for the specified duration, regardless of the measured power.

To set up the power level trigger condition:

1. From Trigger of the Data Acquisition tab, use the arrow buttons next

to the Type list to select the desired condition.

2. Select a channel (if applicable) to be taken as A and B It is possible to select a virtual channel in the case of a multichannel power meter.

64 IQS-1600

Performing Acquisitions

Selecting the Acquisition Mode

Note: The X and Y values are displayed in the currently selected unit.

3. Enter the appropriate X or Y values in the corresponding lists.

4. Click to confirm your setting.

If you select a Single acquisition rate, the External Trigger switch and Trigger Position (%) options become available.

The External Trigger switch allows you to select whether the acquisition will be externally triggered on positive or negative TTL voltage transitions. Choose to select positive (from 0 to 5 V) transitions, or to select negative (from −5 to 0 V) transitions.

The Trigger Position (%) list allows you to set the number of points that will be acquired on the file before the trigger position is met by using the up and down arrow buttons on each side of the list.

For more information about the external trigger function, seeExternal Trigger on page 82.

Once you have launched your acquisition, you will notice a message indicating that the power meter is waiting for the trigger. This message will remain until the trigger condition is met.

High Speed Power Meter 65

Performing Acquisitions

Starting the Acquisition

Once you have set your parameters, you can start the acquisition.

To start an acquisition:

1. Select the Instrument function tab.

2. From the Acquisition tab, press Start.

Data acquisition can be terminated at any time by clicking Stop. The accumulated data is available in the data file.

If you want to start a graph acquisition at the same time, you must enable the Graph function in the same tab (for more information on the graph acquisition and visualization mode, see Performing and Analyzing Graph Acquisitions on page 73).

Note: You cannot activate Graph mode after the acquisition has already been

started.

66 IQS-1600

Performing Acquisitions

Starting the Acquisition

You can also start the acquisition in the Graph tab by clicking the Start button the same way you would in the Control tab.

IMPORTANT

If you change units on one or more channels using Relative or Absolute mode and that you had enabled Graph mode, the Graph and Start buttons might automatically disable themselves if the resulting changes are not compatible with the base unit used in the graph.

To enter a name for your acquisition, type it in the File box of Data Acquisition File. The default extension is .tra.

High Speed Power Meter 67

Performing Acquisitions

Consulting Acquired Data

Once you have acquired data, it is possible to view the results in IQS Manager.

To view data previously acquired:

1. In IQS Manager, select the Work on Results (Offline) function tab.

2. Click the tab, then click the button corresponding to the application for

which you want to see information.

68 IQS-1600

Performing Acquisitions

Consulting Acquired Data

3. In the viewer, retrieve the corresponding file using the button.

³ To view the details pertaining to the channels used for the

acquisition, select the General tab.

High Speed Power Meter 69

Performing Acquisitions

Consulting Acquired Data

³ To view your acquisition data, select the Data tab.

70 IQS-1600

Performing Acquisitions

Consulting Acquired Data

³ To view the graph corresponding to your acquisition data, select

the Graph tab.

To move along the time scale, use the arrow buttons.

The single arrow buttons will move by increments or decrements representing 10 % of the current trace scale value.

The double arrow buttons will move by increments or decrements of the current screen display (for example, the 10 to 40 seconds display would become 40 to 70 seconds in the figure above).

To center on a specific value, type it in the Set position time scale to box.

The other buttons and tabs are identical to those found in your power meter application’s Graph tab. See Performing and Analyzing Graph Acquisitions on page 73 for details.

High Speed Power Meter 71

Performing Acquisitions

Consulting Acquired Data

If you want to save your acquisition file as a text file, use the Export button located on the upper right-hand corner of the window. Save the file as you would any other text file, then confirm your choice. You can now view your data in any word processing program.

Note: If your acquisition file is too large for the viewer, you will be notified by a

pop-up message. Only the first part of your acquisition file will be displayed in the viewer; to see complete results, you must export the file and view it in a word processing program.

To exit the window and return to IQS Manager, click Exit.

72 IQS-1600

9 Performing and Analyzing

Graph Acquisitions

The Graph mode of your power meter allows you to view your acquisition as it is performed, and analyze it once it has been completed.

Setting Up Graph Parameters

Before acquiring data, you should set the parameters that will help you achieve a better viewing afterwards.

To select which channels will be displayed:

Click the corresponding button when you are in the Display tab of the Graph Center.

Once you have acquired a trace, you can also show or hide the channels by clicking the corresponding buttons.

High Speed Power Meter 73

Performing and Analyzing Graph Acquisitions

Setting Up Graph Parameters

Note: You can only hide or display channels actually used for this acquisition.

Moreover, only channels in the type of unit selected for the acquisition (absolute or relative) will be displayed. For example, if your graph was set to dBm units before the acquisition, you will see the graphs for channels using W or dBm as the unit. If your graph was set to W/W units, you will see the graph for channels using dB or W/W as the unit.

To select which type of display to use during the acquisition:

Go to the Settings tab of the Graph Center and click the button corresponding to your choice:

³ Continuous Scroll: The display will scroll along to the right as the

acquisition progresses.

³ Wraparound: Once the acquisition has reached the end of the screen

to the right, it will begin on the left again and cover the previous trace.

74 IQS-1600

Performing and Analyzing Graph Acquisitions

Setting Up Graph Parameters

To change the base unit of the acquisition (dBm or watts):

Use the arrow buttons in the Settings tab to toggle between them.

If you set the base unit before performing an acquisition, you will have the choice between W, dBm, dB, and W/W. If you change the unit while an acquisition is in progress, you will only have the choice between absolute units (dBm or W) or relative units (dB or W/W), depending on your base unit at the start of the acquisition.

If you have selected either W or W/W as the base unit, the Displayed Unit list becomes available, and you can change it during the acquisition using the arrow buttons, depending on the sub-unit that suits the current situation. For example, if at the beginning of the acquisition, no light goes through, the display will be in pW. When light goes through, you might want to switch to μW or nW to get a more appropriate reading.

To change the displayed time scale:

Use the arrow buttons in the Settings tab to increase or decrease the value. The display will change accordingly.

IMPORTANT

If you change the base unit after acquiring data, you will lose the graph you have obtained, as well as the data acquired. Ensure you set your values before acquiring data.

IMPORTANT

If you change the base unit, the channels in the Display tab will automatically change when you switch from a relative unit to an absolute unit or vice versa.

To show or hide the grid in the background of the graph display:

Click the corresponding button in the Settings tab.

High Speed Power Meter 75

Performing and Analyzing Graph Acquisitions

Printing Graph Results

Once you have acquired data and displayed a graph, it is possible to print out this information.

To print your graph results:

Click in the Graph Center.

Use the arrow buttons to select the printer to use. You can enter a title for your document in the corresponding box. The Print Graphic button will start the printout, the Cancel button will bring you back you to the Graph tab, and the Set As Default button will keep the selected printer for future printouts.

The button will be disabled if no graph is displayed.

Clearing Graph Display

The graph display will automatically clear itself when you start a new acquisition. However, you can also clear the graph display manually.

To clear the graph display:

Click in the Graph Center.

Note: Changing items such as the units or display options will also clear the graph

display. Ensure that you have set your parameters beforehand.

76 IQS-1600

Performing and Analyzing Graph Acquisitions

Using the Zoom Function

Once you have performed an acquisition, you can use various zooming tools to help you analyze it.

To access and use the zoom tools:

Click the Zoom Control tab of the Graph Center.

³ allows you to enlarge a precise portion of the trace by dragging a

zone over it. Simply drag the cursor to cover the area you wish to see and release the mouse button to enlarge the area.

³ allows you to enlarge a precise portion of the trace horizontally,

meaning that the time scale will enlarge and the power scale will remain the same.

³ allows you to enlarge a precise portion of the trace vertically,

meaning that the power scale will enlarge and the time scale will remain the same.

High Speed Power Meter 77

Performing and Analyzing Graph Acquisitions

Using the Zoom Function

³ allows you to enlarge the trace display at the precise location

where you click. Click the area repeatedly until you reach the desired zoom factor.

³ allows you to reduce the trace display at the precise location

where you click. Click the area repeatedly until you reach the desired zoom factor.

³ allows you to move around the trace to view areas not currently

displayed. You can pan upwards and downwards, as well as to the left and right.

Note: You can only pan to the right and left if the time scale length is larger than

the portion displayed on the screen.

To revert to the original trace size, click in the Graph Center.

78 IQS-1600

Performing and Analyzing Graph Acquisitions

Displaying and Moving Markers

Once you have acquired a trace, you can use markers to take precise measurements.

To enable the markers:

1. Select the channel you want to use from the Channel pull-down list in

the Markers tab.

2. Click the On button.

The two markers, A and B, will appear on the display.

You can move the markers to the desired position by clicking them and dragging them to the left or right; or you can use the arrow buttons next to each marker to move them. The markers will move automatically to the next available point when you move them either by dragging or with the arrow buttons.

High Speed Power Meter 79

Performing and Analyzing Graph Acquisitions

Displaying and Moving Markers

Note: If you have enabled the markers and you move to another tab (than the

Zoom tab), the markers will still be visible, but you cannot move them. You must return to the Markers tab to do so.

You will notice that the difference between the markers (B − A) is automatically refreshed on the lower part of the tab as you move the markers.

80 IQS-1600

10 Using the External Trigger and

Analog Outputs

Both the external trigger and analog output (SMB connectors) are accessible from the front panel of your power meter module.

IQS-1610 IQS-1620 IQS-1640

Analog

output port

ANALOG OUT

EXT.

TRIG

IQS-1600

Power Meter

External trigger port (SMB connector)

IQS-1600

2-Ch Power Meter

EXT. TRIG

IQS-1600

4-Ch Power Meter

External connector (used only with the IQS-12004B system)

Sync Out

Sync In Tri g

High Speed Power Meter 81

Using the External Trigger and Analog Outputs

External Trigger

The external trigger is used to synchronize or stimulate the acquisition of power measurements with an electrical signal (TTL level). Single acquisitions of up to 4096 Hz can be performed. The external trigger can only be used with a Single acquisition rate. The external trigger can be used to start a file acquisition.

Note: Since externally triggered acquisitions may only be performed using a high

acquisition rate, a manual power range must be set for all channels.

To prepare an externally triggered file acquisition:

1. You must select the Single acquisition rate (see Per forming

Acquisitions on page 55).

2. In the Settings function tab, select Data Acquisition.

3. Click on Trigger to select it.

4. Determine whether the acquisition will be externally triggered on

either positive or negative TTL voltage transitions by selecting or

, respectively by using the External Trigger switch.

At the fastest sampling rate (4096 Hz) during a single acquisition, the instrument can store at least four seconds worth of data per channel (depending on the number of channels per instrument). The trigger will be set at instant 0. You may want to see the data acquired before the trigger occurred. You can enter the desired percentage of data before the trigger position from the Trigger position (%) box.

When you enable the externally triggered acquisition with Start, the acquisition will wait for the voltage transition to occur before storing the data on file.

82 IQS-1600

Using the External Trigger and Analog Outputs

Analog Output (IQS-1610, IQS-1620)

Connecting a TTL Source to the External Trigger

A synchronizing signal from a signal generator or from a control circuit may be connected to the external trigger input of the your high-speed power meter module if it does not exceed TTL levels. The illustration below shows a typical connection setup for a signal generator.

Signal generator

4.000 000 000n GHz

6.00 dBm

IQS-1600

External trigger input

Optical power input

ANALOG OUT

EXT. TRIG

IQS-1600

2-Ch Power Meter

DUT

(e.-o. component)

Optical input Optical output

Analog Output (IQS-1610, IQS-1620)

The analog output provides an electrical signal proportional to the optical power input on the detector (which is the measured value shown in the display of the Instrument function tab). It is available for channel 1 of both single- and dual-channel models.

The analog output signal is the redirection of the signal after the first amplification stage. Do not use the analog output in Autorange mode (see Setting the Measurement Range on page 32) because the gain scales of the first amplification stage are constantly changed to optimize signal-to-noise ratio.

High Speed Power Meter 83

Using the External Trigger and Analog Outputs

Analog Output (IQS-1610, IQS-1620)

The following is an illustration of typical uses of the analog output.

Analog output

IQS-1600

ANALOG OUT

EXT. TRIG

IQS-1600

2-Ch Power Meter

Digital oscilloscope

Analog output

IQS-1600

ANALOG OUT

IQS-1600

2-Ch Power Meter

EXT. TRIG

Data logger

The user interface can be used to determine the operating power levels and to optimize the analog output range. Choose the optimum power range for your application. The table below provides the voltage vs. power information for each available manual range.

Manual

Range

Power vs. Voltage

LR1, HR1 2.15 V ± 25 %b at 18.30 dBm

LR2, HR2 2.15 V ± 25 %b at 9.90 dBm LR3, HR3 2.15 V ± 25 % LR4, HR4 2.15 V ± 25 % LR5 2.15 V ± 25 % LR6 2.15 V ± 25 %

at −49.61 dBm or at 44.94 dBm for IQS-16XXW models

at −69.61 dBm or at 64.10 dBm for IQS-16XXW models

at −10.09 dBm

at −29.87 dBm

a. At 1310 nm. b. Large uncertainty is due to detector responsivity at 1310 nm. c. Not guaranteed due to detector saturation.

84 IQS-1600

Using the External Trigger and Analog Outputs

Analog Output (IQS-1610, IQS-1620)

When using your high-speed power meter with rising optical power, saturation of the scale converter will be reached when +++++++ is displayed. At that moment, the voltage in the analog output will be 2.15 V. Even with +++++++ displayed, the optical power can still be increased further and the analog output will continue to increase proportionately. The voltage reading on the oscilloscope is then 3.95 V for HR1 to HR4 and LR1 to LR4, and 4.4 V for LR5 and LR6.

To set the analog output properties:

1. From the main window, click Settings.

High Speed Power Meter 85

Using the External Trigger and Analog Outputs

Analog Output (IQS-1610, IQS-1620)

2. Select the Analog Out tab.

3. Select an analog output in Settings (Analog Out 1 for a one- or

four-channel power meter, or Analog Out 1 or 2 for a two-channel power meter) by clicking the corresponding button.

4. In the case of a multichannel power meter, select the source channel you want to associate with the analog output by clicking the up or down arrow buttons.

5. Set the range for the analog output by using the arrow buttons. The 0-4.09 Volt output range (the dark section) will move accordingly along the available power range.

Note: As you move the range, the Max power value is automatically updated.

6. Once your settings are set, click Apply to enter them and use them for

your future acquisitions.

7. Before leaving the Settings function tab, activate the analog output mode by moving the switch to the ON position.

86 IQS-1600

11 Monitoring Power Meter

Modules

When using your IQS-1600 High Speed Power Meter module, either alone or with other modules in a test setup, you can view module data and status using its monitor window in IQS Manager.

Using Monitor Windows

Monitor windows display basic data about modules. A combination of resizable windows allows you to create an integrated data display (refer to the platform user guide).

From the monitor window, you can change module parameters either by:

³ opening the module application to access all the functions

³ using the QuickTools utility, which provides frequently used functions

from the application.

High Speed Power Meter 87

Monitoring Power Meter Modules

Using Monitor Windows

To select modules and display their monitor windows:

1. On the Current Modules function tab, select the controller or

expansion unit containing the modules you want to monitor.

Selected modules

(checked)

2. In the Monitor column, select the box next to each module you want to monitor.

If you want to monitor all the modules in the current unit, click Select

All Monitors. If you want to clear your choices, click Deselect All Monitors.

88 IQS-1600

Monitoring Power Meter Modules

Using Monitor Windows

3. Click Start Monitor to apply your selection.

IQS Manager will display the selected monitor windows on the Monitors function tab.

Note: To start t h e highlighted module’s corresponding application at the same

time, click Start App. & Monitor. The application will appear in a different window.

button

Rearrange

Monitors

button

(1 or 2

columns)

Monitor window

arrow buttons

High Speed Power Meter 89

Close All button

Monitoring Power Meter Modules

Using QuickTools

With QuickTools, you can fine-tune your module directly, while keeping an eye on your entire test setup.

Note: You can only access QuickTools if the module’s monitor window is selected

from the Monitors function tab and is currently active.

To start QuickTools:

1. From the Monitors function tab, elect the monitor window of the

module you wish to control.

2. Using the arrow button in the upper left corner, select QuickTools.

The corresponding monitor window flashes when QuickTools is activated.

Note: If you want to open the actual application for your module rather than

QuickTools, click Show Controller.

90 IQS-1600

Monitoring Power Meter Modules

Using QuickTools

To c lo s e Q ui c kTo o l s :

³ Click the Close button located at the top of the window.

³ Click outside the QuickTools window.

To close a monitor window:

Click the button on the upper left of the monitor window and select Remove Monitor.

Click the Close All button at the bottom of the window.

High Speed Power Meter 91

EXFO IQS-1600 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Certification Information

Main Features

Typic a l A pp l icatio n s

Conventions

2 Safety Information

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

Starting the High Speed Power Meter Application

Entering Values Using Sliders and Numeric Boxes

Exiting the Application

Setting Channel Display(IQS-1620, IQS-1640)

Selecting the Wavelength

Managing Wavelength Lists

Selecting the Measurement Unit

Setting the Display Resolution

Setting the Refresh Rate

Setting the Measurement Range

Saving and Recalling Configurations

Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers

Nulling Offsets

6 Measuring Power

Displaying Absolute Power

Measuring Relative Power

Selecting the Reference Value

Editing the Reference List

Measuring Corrected Power

Using the Offset Function

Averaging Measurements

8 Performing Acquisitions

Selecting the Sampling Type

Selecting the Acquisition Mode

Starting the Acquisition

Consulting Acquired Data

Setting Up Graph Parameters

Printing Graph Results

Clearing Graph Display

Using the Zoom Function

Displaying and Moving Markers

External Trigger

Analog Output (IQS-1610, IQS-1620)

Using Monitor Windows

Using QuickTools