EXFO IQS-1700 User Manual

IQS-1700

High Performance Power Meter

and Optical Head for IQS-600

User Guide

Copyright © 2002–2014 EXFO 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 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.

Patents

The IQS-1700 power meter and optical heads are protected under one or more of US patent nos.: 6,437,861, 6,621,067 and 7,167,655.

Version number: 4.0.0

ii IQS-1700

Contents

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

1 Introducing the IQS-1700 High Performance Power Meter ....................... 1

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

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

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

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

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

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

Connecting the Optical Head to the Power Meter ................................................................14

Securing the Optical Head onto Your Work Surface ..............................................................15

Starting the High Performance Power Meter Application .....................................................15

Entering Values Using Sliders and Numeric Boxes .................................................................19

Exiting the Application .........................................................................................................20

4 Setting Up Your High Performance Power Meter ..................................... 21

Setting Channel Display .......................................................................................................22

Selecting a Channel (Multi-Channel Models) ........................................................................23

Naming Channels .................................................................................................................24

Selecting the Wavelength .....................................................................................................25

Managing Wavelength Lists ..................................................................................................26

Selecting the Measurement Unit ...........................................................................................27

Setting the Display Resolution ..............................................................................................28

Setting the Refresh Rate .......................................................................................................30

Setting the Measurement Range ..........................................................................................31

Saving and Recalling Configurations .....................................................................................34

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

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

Nulling Offsets ......................................................................................................................39

6 Measuring Power ....................................................................................... 43

Displaying Absolute Power ...................................................................................................43

Measuring Relative Power .....................................................................................................45

Selecting the Reference Value ...............................................................................................46

Editing the Reference List .....................................................................................................47

Measuring Corrected Power ..................................................................................................48

Using the Offset Function .....................................................................................................50

Averaging Measurements .....................................................................................................51

High Performance Power Meter iii

Contents

7 Recording Power Signal Variations ............................................................53

8 Performing Acquisitions .............................................................................57

Selecting the Sampling Type .................................................................................................58

Editing the Frequency Divider List .........................................................................................61

Selecting the Acquisition Mode ............................................................................................62

Starting the Acquisition ........................................................................................................68

Consulting Acquired Data .....................................................................................................70

9 Performing and Analyzing Graph Acquisitions .........................................75

Setting Up Graph Parameters ...............................................................................................75

Printing Graph Results ..........................................................................................................78

Clearing Graph Display .........................................................................................................78

Using the Zoom Function .....................................................................................................79

Displaying and Moving Markers ...........................................................................................81

10 Monitoring Power Meter Modules ............................................................83

Using Monitor Windows .......................................................................................................83

Using QuickTools ...................................................................................................................86

11 Maintenance ................................................................................................89

Cleaning Fixed Connectors ....................................................................................................90

Cleaning Detector Ports ........................................................................................................92

Recalibrating the Unit ...........................................................................................................93

Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only) ....................................................94

12 Troubleshooting ..........................................................................................95

Solving Common Problems ...................................................................................................95

Viewing Online Documentation ............................................................................................97

Contacting the Technical Support Group ..............................................................................98

Transportation ....................................................................................................................100

13 Warranty ....................................................................................................101

General Information ...........................................................................................................101

Liability ...............................................................................................................................101

Exclusions ...........................................................................................................................102

Certification ........................................................................................................................102

Service and Repairs .............................................................................................................103

EXFO Service Centers Worldwide ........................................................................................104

A Technical Specifications ............................................................................105

B SCPI Command Reference ........................................................................107

Quick Reference Command Tree .........................................................................................107

Product-Specific Commands—Description ..........................................................................111

iv IQS-1700

Contents

Index .............................................................................................................. 189

High Performance Power Meter v

Certification Information

North America Regulatory Statement

This unit was certified by an agency approved in both Canada and the United States of America. It has been evaluated according to applicable North American approved standards for product safety for use in Canada and the United States.

Electronic test and measurement equipment is exempt from FCC part 15, subpart B compliance in the United States of America and from ICES-003 compliance in Canada. However, EXFO Inc. makes reasonable efforts to ensure compliance to the applicable standards.

The limits set by these standards are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the user guide, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

Modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

IMPORTANT

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.

vi IQS-1700

Certification Information

European Community Declaration of Conformity

An electronic version of the declaration of conformity for your product is available on our website at www.exfo.com. Refer to the product’s page on the Web site for details.

High Performance Power Meter vii

1 Introducing the IQS-1700 High

1 CH Power Meter

IQS-1700

2-CH Power Meter

IQS-1700

4-CH Power Meter

IQS-1700

Optical detector port

LED push

button

Retaining screw knob

IQS-1710X IQS-1720X IQS-1740X

Models With Standard Optical Detector Ports

Performance Power Meter

Designed for the IQS-600 Integrated Qualification System, the IQS-1700 High Performance Power Meter is a module available in different models. It is used with the OHS-1700 Optical Head.

Main Features

The IQS-1700 High Performance Power Meter is offered with the followingone-, two-, or four-channel models.

The OHS-1700 Optical Head is offered in Ultra-High Power option (up to 37 dBm).

High Performance Power Meter 1

Introducing the IQS-1700 High Performance Power Meter

1 CH Power Meter

IQS-1700

2-CH Power Meter

IQS-1700

4-CH Power Meter

IQS-1700

Optical head connector

LED push

button

Retaining screw knob

IQS-1710 IQS-1720 IQS-1740

Models With Optical Head Connectors

Main Features

It features a high sampling rate and fast stabilization, and comes in one-, two- or four-channel options (each detector is independent).

The OHS-1700 Optical Head allows you to handle power signals in a safe and efficient way. You can connect up to four optical heads to a module, depending on the model you have acquired. The optical head functions with connectorized and non-connectorized fiber.

2 IQS-1700

Introducing the IQS-1700 High Performance Power Meter

Connector port to module

Connector port

Tri pod s crew

hole (Metric

system on the

left and

Imperial system

on the right)

Integrating cavity and heat dissipator

Main Features

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

The IQS-1700 High Performance 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.

High Performance Power Meter 3

Introducing the IQS-1700 High Performance Power Meter

Typi c a l A pp licat i o ns

Typical Applications

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

 Transceiver testing

 Amplifier characterization

 PDL measurements

 Network monitoring

 Passive component characterization

4 IQS-1700

Introducing the IQS-1700 High Performance Power Meter

Conventions

Before using the product described in this guide, 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.

Conventions

IMPORTANT

Refers to information about this product you should not overlook.

High Performance 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

The use of controls, adjustments and procedures, namely for operation and maintenance, other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure or impair the protection provided by this unit.

IMPORTANT

When you see the following symbol on your unit , make sure that you refer to the instructions provided in your user documentation. Ensure that you understand and meet the required conditions before using your product.

IMPORTANT

Other safety instructions relevant for your product are located throughout this documentation, depending on the action to perform. Make sure to read them carefully when they apply to your situation.

Note: Refer to the platform’s user guide for additional test equipment safety

information and ratings.

High Performance Power Meter 7

3 Getting Started with Your

High Performance 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.

CAUTION

To avoid damaging your unit, use it only with modules approved by EXFO.

High Performance Power Meter 9

Getting Started with Your High Performance Power Meter

Retaining screw

knob

Protective cover

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

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.

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

10 IQS-1700

Getting Started with Your High Performance Power Meter

Retaining screw

Retaining screw knob

Protruding edges (right side of module)

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

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

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.

High Performance Power Meter 11

Getting Started with Your High Performance Power Meter

Retaining screw knob

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-1700 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.

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

12 IQS-1700

Getting Started with Your High Performance Power Meter

YES

Retaining screw

knob

Connector

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

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.

CAUTION

High Performance Power Meter 13

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

Getting Started with Your High Performance Power Meter

Head properly connected

Head not connected

Connecting the Optical Head to the Power Meter

To connect the optical head to the optical head interface, use the provided cable. Ensure that the connector key is aligned with the port’s corresponding notch; once the key and pins are properly aligned, the connection should be made easily.

CAUTION

Do not force the connector into the port if the pins do not seem to be correctly aligned with the corresponding holes. Forcing the connector could permanently damage the pins.

Once you have connected the optical head to the interface and started the application (as explained in Starting the High Performance Power Meter Application on page 15), you should see the channel or channels (on a multiple-channel power meter) in the data display.

If the optical head is not connected to its channel, you will notice that the display is different and you cannot perform measurements on this channel until you have connected the head properly.

14 IQS-1700

Getting Started with Your High Performance Power Meter

Tri pod

Tri p o d scre w

Metric-based

screw hole

Imperial-based screw hole

Securing the Optical Head onto Your Work Surface

Your OHS-1700 Optical Head can be used with a tripod. A metric-based screw hole is located on the left side of the head and bears the inscription “M6 X 1” and an imperial-based screw hole is located on the right side and bears the inscription “1/4-20”.

Once you have installed the head onto the tripod, tighten the tripod screw to prevent it from turning; which would compromise your test results.

Starting the High Performance Power Meter Application

Your IQS-1700 High Performance 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.

High Performance Power Meter 15

Getting Started with Your High Performance Power Meter

Highlighted module

(white background)

Starting the High Performance Power Meter Application

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.

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

16 IQS-1700

2. Click Start Application.

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

You can also double-click its row.

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

Getting Started with Your High Performance Power Meter

Parameter

definition

controls

Data

display

Title bar

Status bar

Starting the High Performance Power Meter Application

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

Note: When using a multichannel power meter with different optical heads, the

settings (such as the wavelength list) used by the application are those detected on the highest channel number. For example, if you use a Low-PDL head on channel 2 and a high-power head on channel 3, the high-power head settings will take precedence. If you move the head from channel 3 to channel 1, the Low-PDL head will be used for settings instead.

High Performance Power Meter 17

Getting Started with Your High Performance Power Meter

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

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

[999–1]

Current date and timeModule/unit status

Local: Module controlled locally only.

Remote: Module controlled remotely, but

local commands can also be used.

Lockout: Module controlled remotely only.

Control mode

Starting the High Performance 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:

Status Bar

The status bar, located at the bottom of the main window, identifies the operational status of the IQS-1700 High Performance Power Meter.

For more information about automating or remotely controlling the IQS-1700 High Performance Power Meter, refer to your platform user guide.

18 IQS-1700

Getting Started with Your High Performance Power Meter

Numeric box button

Fine-tuning

box

Slider

Navigation buttons

Parameter identification

Toggle button

Backspace button (to correct a value)

Clear button

Entry display

Entering Values Using Sliders and Numeric Boxes

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

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

 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.

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

can use to enter a power value.

High Performance Power Meter 19

To enter a value using the numeric box:

1. Use the button to clear the entry display.

2. Enter the value.

3. Click OK to confirm the value.

Getting Started with Your High Performance Power Meter

Exiting the Application

Closing any application that is not currently being used helps freeing 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.

20 IQS-1700

4 Setting Up Your High

Performance Power Meter

You can set the following parameters on your IQS-1700:

 Channel display

 Wavelength selection and management

 Measurement unit selection

 Display resolution

 Refresh rate

 Measurement range

 Saving and recalling configuration

High Performance Power Meter 21

Setting Up Your High Performance Power Meter

Setting Channel Display

The channel display allows you to select which channels you want to view when using a multichannel power meter. You can display up tofour optical channels using a four-channel power meter.

To set the channel display :

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.

22 IQS-1700

Setting Up Your High Performance Power Meter

Selecting a Channel (Multi-Channel Models)

The optical channels on multi-channel models are independent.

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 Performance Power Meter 23

Setting Up Your High Performance Power Meter

Naming Channels

A user-selected name can be given to each power meter channel. 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.

24 IQS-1700

Setting Up Your High Performance Power Meter

Wavelength list

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 26.

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).

2. Select the wavelength using the arrow buttons next to the  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.

High Performance Power Meter 25

Setting Up Your High Performance Power Meter

Managing Wavelength Lists

The wavelengths you want to use with your IQS-1700 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.

2. In the Wavelength list, enter the wavelength value to be added.

You can enter a value with a 0.01 nm resolution.

3. 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.

26 IQS-1700

Setting Up Your High Performance Power Meter

Selecting the Measurement Unit

To delete a wavelength from the list:

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

2. From, the Wavelengt h 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.

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, W, 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.

High Performance Power Meter 27

Setting Up Your High Performance 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 31).

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.

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

28 IQS-1700

Setting Up Your High Performance Power Meter

Setting the Display Resolution

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

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.

High Performance Power Meter 29

Setting Up Your High Performance 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.

30 IQS-1700

Setting Up Your High Performance 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.

It is necessary to use a manual range to achieve high-rate acquisitions (see Performing Acquisitions on page 57).

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

High Performance Power Meter 31

Setting Up Your High Performance 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 an acquisition when the input signal has unstable

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

32 IQS-1700

Setting Up Your High Performance Power Meter

Setting the Measurement Range

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

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.

High Performance Power Meter 33

Setting Up Your High Performance Power Meter

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

To always use the last saved parameters when starting.

Saving and Recalling Configurations

Once you have set the IQS-1700 High Performance 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.

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.

34 IQS-1700

Setting Up Your High Performance 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.

High Performance Power Meter 35

5 Preparing Your High

Performance Power Meter for a Test

The OHS-1700 Optical Head can be used with connectorized or nonconnectorized fiber (using the FOA-3000 and BFA-3000 Bare Fiber Adaptor). Each head has its own port, onto which you can connect a fiber.

Ensure you use the appropriate adaptors such as the FOA-3000 or the BFA-3000 to combine your power meter to the optical head. You also have to clean optical fibers properly before connecting them to your unit.

Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers

IMPORTANT

To ensure maximum power and to avoid erroneous readings:

 Always inspect fiber ends and make sure that they are clean as

explained below before inserting them into the port. EXFO is not responsible for damage or errors caused by bad fiber cleaning or handling.

 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.

High Performance Power Meter 37

Preparing Your High Performance Power Meter for a Test

Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers

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.

EXFO uses good quality connectors in compliance with EIA-455-21A standards.

To keep connectors clean and in good condition, EXFO strongly recommends inspecting them with a fiber inspection probe before connecting them. Failure to do so will result in permanent damage to the connectors and degradation in measurements.

38 IQS-1700

Preparing Your High Performance 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.

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

longer applies when you turn off your power meter.

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

High Performance Power Meter 39

Preparing Your High Performance 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 (Multi-Channel Models) on page 23.

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.

40 IQS-1700

Preparing Your High Performance 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.

High Performance Power Meter 41

Preparing Your High Performance Power Meter for a Test

Nulling Offsets

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.

42 IQS-1700

6 Measuring Power

Power measurements can be displayed in two ways:

 absolute

 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, W, mW...) and the displayed value represents the absolute optical power reaching the detector within specified uncertainty.

High Performance Power Meter 43

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 (W or dBm).

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 39).

44 IQS-1700

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 Performance Power Meter 45

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.

46 IQS-1700

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 Performance Power Meter 47

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.

48 IQS-1700

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 Performance Power Meter 49

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.

50 IQS-1700

Measuring Power

yn

---- -

xn 1

---- -

–





yn 1–+=

Averaging Measurements

When the averaging function is enabled on the IQS-1700 High Performance 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.

Averaging can be done on a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 1000 points (you can enter 1 as a value, but the averaging will be performed only on that value and will be rather useless). The calculation uses watt as unit, but the result will be converted into the unit you have selected for your acquisition (W, W/W, dBm or dB) afterwards.

The formulas used to calculate measurement averaging depend on the number of the current acquisition.

If n M, then

Where

 n is the number of the current acquisition

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

 x[n] is the current sample in watts

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

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

High Performance Power Meter 51

Measuring Power

Average /Averaging lists

Averaging Measurements

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.

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

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.

52 IQS-1700

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; seeSelecting the Measurement Unit on page 27). 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 (seeSelecting the Sampling

Type on page 58).

High Performance Power Meter 53

Recording Power Signal Variations

Selection indicators

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.

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).

4. Click Start to start power measurements.

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.

54 IQS-1700

Recording Power Signal Variations

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.

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

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

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

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

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

be displayed.

 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 Performance Power Meter 55

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.

You can set a location where the acquisitions will be stored when you do your tests.

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 Performance Power Meter 57

Performing Acquisitions

Selecting the Sampling Type

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

 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.

 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).

 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.

58 IQS-1700

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.

This rate is a divider of the maximum rate (5208 Hz). For example, 5208 Hz has a divider of 1, 2604 has a divider of 2 and so forth. To add or remove dividers from the list of available values, see Editing the Frequency Divider List on page 61.

High Performance Power Meter 59

Performing Acquisitions

Selecting the Sampling Type

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

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.

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 51) for greater repeatability when measuring very

low power.

60 IQS-1700

Performing Acquisitions

Editing the Frequency Divider List

To select the frequency at which your continuous or single acquisition will be performed, use a value which is a divider of the full frequency value, 5208 Hz. The values available to you are listed located in the List tab of the Settings function tab.

To enter a new divider, simply type it in the Divider box. The Frequency (Hz) box will be automatically updated with the proper value. To confirm your new value, click .

To remove a divider from the list, select it by clicking it once, then click .

High Performance Power Meter 61

Performing Acquisitions

Selecting the Acquisition Mode

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

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

previously set.

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

before starting its next acquisition.

 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.

62 IQS-1700

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.

High Performance Power Meter 63

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.

64 IQS-1700

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).

High Performance Power Meter 65

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

A < x Acquisition will start when measured power is lower

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

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

than the specified x value.

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

or channel B is lower than the specified x value.

x<A or B<y (multichannel

power meters only)

A<B (multichannel

power meters only)

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

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

66 IQS-1700

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). Acquisition will start when measured power of

channel A is lower than measured power of channel B.

Performing Acquisitions

Selecting the Acquisition Mode

To set up the power level trigger condition:

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

to the Typ e list to select the desired condition.

2. Select a channel (if applicable) to be taken as A and B

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.

High Performance Power Meter 67

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 75).

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

started.

68 IQS-1700

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 Performance Power Meter 69

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.

70 IQS-1700

Performing Acquisitions

Consulting Acquired Data

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

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

acquisition, select the General tab.

High Performance Power Meter 71

Performing Acquisitions

Consulting Acquired Data

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

72 IQS-1700

Performing Acquisitions

Consulting Acquired Data

 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 75 for details.

High Performance Power Meter 73

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.

74 IQS-1700

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 Performance Power Meter 75

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:

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

acquisition progresses.

 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.

76 IQS-1700

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 Performance Power Meter 77

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.

78 IQS-1700

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.

 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.

 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.

 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 Performance Power Meter 79

Performing and Analyzing Graph Acquisitions

Using the Zoom Function

 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.

 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.

 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.

80 IQS-1700

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 Performance Power Meter 81

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.

82 IQS-1700

10 Monitoring Power Meter

Modules

When using your IQS-1700 High Performance 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:

 opening the module application to access all the functions

 using the QuickTools utility, which provides frequently used functions

from the application.

High Performance Power Meter 83

Monitoring Power Meter Modules

Selected modules

(checked)

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.

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.

84 IQS-1700

Monitoring Power Meter Modules

button

Rearrange

Monitors

button

(1 or 2

columns)

Monitor window

arrow buttons

Close All button

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 sta r t the highlighted module’s corresponding application at the same

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

High Performance Power Meter 85

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, select 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.

86 IQS-1700

Monitoring Power Meter Modules

Using QuickTools

To c lo s e Q ui ck To ol s:

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

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.

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11 Maintenance

To help ensure long, trouble-free operation:

 Always inspect fiber-optic connectors before using them and clean

them if necessary.

 Keep the unit free of dust.

 Clean the unit casing and front panel with a cloth slightly dampened

with water.

 Store unit at room temperature in a clean and dry area. Keep the unit

out of direct sunlight.

 Avoid high humidity or significant temperature fluctuations.

 Avoid unnecessary shocks and vibrations.

 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

High Performance Power Meter 89

Maintenance

Cleaning Fixed Connectors

Regular cleaning of connectors will help maintain optimum performance. Do not try to disassemble the unit. Doing so would break the connector.

Looking into the optical connector while the light source is active WILL result in permanent eye damage. EXFO strongly recommends to TURN OFF the unit before proceeding with the cleaning procedure.

To clean fixed connectors:

1. Fold a lint-free wiping cloth in four to form a square.

2. Moisten the center of the lint-free wiping cloth with only one drop of

isopropyl alcohol.

Alcohol may leave traces if used abundantly. Avoid contact between the tip of the bottle and the wiping cloth, and do not use bottles that distribute too much alcohol at a time.

WARNING

IMPORTANT

3. Gently wipe the connector threads three times with the folded and moistened section of the wiping cloth.

IMPORTANT

Isopropyl alcohol takes approximately ten seconds to evaporate. Since isopropyl alcohol is not absolutely pure, evaporation will leave microscopic residue. Make sure you dry the surfaces before evaporation occurs.

4. With a dry lint-free wiping cloth, gently wipe the same surfaces three times with a rotating movement.

90 IQS-1700

Maintenance

Cleaning Fixed Connectors

5. Throw out the wiping cloths after one use.

6. Moisten a cleaning tip (2.5 mm tip) with only one drop of isopropyl

alcohol.

IMPORTANT

Alcohol may leave traces if used abundantly. Avoid contact between the tip of the bottle and the cleaning tip, and do not use bottles that distribute too much alcohol at a time.

7. Slowly insert the cleaning tip into the connector until it reaches the ferrule inside (a slow clockwise rotating movement may help).

8. Gently turn the cleaning tip one full turn.

9. Continue to turn as you withdraw the cleaning tip.

10. Repeat steps 7 to 9, but this time with a dry cleaning tip (2.5 mm tip

provided by EXFO).

Note: Make sure you don’t touch the soft end of the cleaning tip and verify the

cleanliness of the cotton tip.

11. Throw out the cleaning tips after one use.

High Performance Power Meter 91

Maintenance

Cleaning Detector Ports

Regular cleaning of detectors will help maintain measurement accuracy.

Always cover detectors with protective caps when unit is not in use.

To clean detector ports:

1. Remove the protective cap and adapter (FOA) from the detector.

2. If the detector is dusty, blow dry with compressed air.

3. Being careful not to touch the soft end of the swab, moisten a cleaning

tip with only one drop of isopropyl alcohol.

Alcohol may leave traces if used abundantly. Do not use bottles that distribute too much alcohol at a time.

IMPORTANT

4. While applying light pressure (to avoid breaking the detector window), gently rotate the cleaning tip on the detector window.

5. Repeat step 4 with a dry cleaning tip or blow dry with compressed air.

6. Discard the cleaning tips after one use.

92 IQS-1700

EXFO IQS-1700 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Certification Information

Main Features

Typi c a l A pp licat i o ns

Conventions

2 Safety Information

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

Connecting the Optical Head to the Power Meter

Securing the Optical Head onto Your Work Surface

Starting the High Performance Power Meter Application

Entering Values Using Sliders and Numeric Boxes

Exiting the Application

Setting Channel Display

Selecting a Channel (Multi-Channel Models)

Naming Channels

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

Editing the Frequency Divider List

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

Using Monitor Windows

Using QuickTools

11 Maintenance

Cleaning Fixed Connectors

Cleaning Detector Ports