EXFO IQS-3150 User Manual

IQS-3150

Variable Attenuator for IQS Platforms

User Guide

Copyright © 2006–2008 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.

Patents

EXFO’s Universal Interface is protected by US patent 6,612,750.

Version number: 2.0.0

ii IQS-3150

Contents

Certification Information ........................................................................................................v

1 Introducing the IQS-3150 Variable Attenuator ........................................... 1

Models and Options ...............................................................................................................1

Typical Applications ................................................................................................................3

Main Software Features ..........................................................................................................4

Conventions ............................................................................................................................8

Laser Safety Information .........................................................................................................9

2 Getting Started with Your Variable Attenuator ....................................... 11

Inserting and Removing Test Modules ..................................................................................11

Starting the Variable Attenuator Application ........................................................................15

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

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

3 Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator ........................................................ 21

Basic Settings ........................................................................................................................21

Control Center Settings and Controls ...................................................................................29

Creating a Test Sequence ......................................................................................................35

Managing Sequence Files .....................................................................................................42

Saving and Recalling Configurations .....................................................................................44

4 Operating the IQS-3150 ............................................................................. 47

Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers ...............................................................................47

Installing the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI) .........................................................................48

Nulling Electrical Offsets .......................................................................................................48

Running an Attenuation Sequence .......................................................................................50

Using the Power Tracking Function (Self-Adjusting Modules) ...............................................52

Using the Shutter ..................................................................................................................53

5 Controlling Multiple Variable Attenuators ............................................... 55

Starting a Multimodule Application ......................................................................................55

Selecting Modules to Control ...............................................................................................56

Controlling a Single IQS-3150 Variable Attenuator ...............................................................57

Navigating and Closing Multiple Module Windows ..............................................................58

6 Monitoring Variable Attenuator Modules ................................................ 59

Using Monitor Windows .......................................................................................................59

Using QuickTools ...................................................................................................................62

7 Measuring Multimode Insertion Loss ....................................................... 65

Variable Attenuator iii

Contents

8 Maintenance ................................................................................................67

Cleaning Fixed Connectors ....................................................................................................68

Cleaning EUI Connectors ......................................................................................................70

Cleaning Detector Ports ........................................................................................................72

Homing the Variable Attenuator (User Calibration) ..............................................................73

Recalibrating the Unit ...........................................................................................................74

Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only) ....................................................75

9 Troubleshooting ..........................................................................................77

Viewing Online Documentation ............................................................................................77

Finding Information on the EXFO Web Site ..........................................................................77

Contacting the Technical Support Group ..............................................................................78

Transportation ......................................................................................................................80

10 Warranty ......................................................................................................81

General Information .............................................................................................................81

Liability .................................................................................................................................81

Exclusions .............................................................................................................................82

Certification ..........................................................................................................................82

Service and Repairs ...............................................................................................................83

EXFO Service Centers Worldwide ..........................................................................................84

A Technical Specifications ..............................................................................85

B SCPI Command Reference ..........................................................................87

Quick Reference Command Tree ...........................................................................................88

Product-Specific Commands—Description ............................................................................90

Index ...............................................................................................................151

iv IQS-3150

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.

Variable Attenuator v

Certification Information

Application of Council Directive(s): 73/23/EEC - The Low Voltage Directive 89/336/EEC - The EMC Directive And their amendments Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. Manufacturer’s Address: 400 Godin Avenue Quebec, Quebec Canada G1M 2K2 (418) 683-0211 Equipment Type/Environment: Test & Measurement / Industrial Trade Name/Model No.: IQS-3150

Standard(s) to which Conformity is Declared:

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

EN 55022: 1998 +A2: 2003

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.

Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Disturbance Characteristics of Information Technology Equipment.

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

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Variable Attenuator

Manufacturer

Signature:

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

Address: 400 Godin Avenue, Quebec

Date: November 27, 2006

Development

(Quebec), Canada, G1M 2K2

vi IQS-3150

1 Introducing the IQS-3150

Variable Attenuator

The IQS-3150 is a versatile variable attenuator. It can be used as a regular attenuator or it can be equipped with an integrated power meter, which allows you to work not only in attenuation but also in power level requirements. The following is a description of the IQS-3150 features and its typical applications.

Models and Options

The IQS-3150 module is a high-performance attenuator, part of the IQS product line.

Input port

Output port

Green LED push button

to start the IQS-3150

software

IQS-3150

Vari abl e Attenuator

Shutter

Red LED push button to close and lock, or to open the shutter. When lit, the shutter is closed.

Retaining screw knob

The module is configured for singlemode or multimode fibers and complies with optical return loss measurement (ORL) standards on transmission equipment.

Variable Attenuator 1

Introducing the IQS-3150 Variable Attenuator

Models and Options

The IQS-3150 Variable Attenuator is available in four models:

³ Standard singlemode

³ Standard multimode

³ Self-adjusting singlemode (added Output Power contro l m o d e)

³ Self-adjusting multimode (added Output Power control mode)

The self-adjusting modules offer two operation modes: Attenuation and Power Output. The Attenuation mode allows you to work with a wide range of attenuation levels. The Output Power mode allows you to request a fixed output power value and the module automatically adjusts the attenuation according to that value.

Compatibility with various fiber cores is an option that you can add to your IQS-3150.

Local and Remote Control

The IQS-3150 Variable Attenuator 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.

Note: With IQS-3100 modules, you can use the LabVIEW drivers created for the

IQS-3150 module. However, the documentation and especially the examples provided with the drivers are focused on the new functionalities of the IQS-3150.

2 IQS-3150

Introducing the IQS-3150 Variable Attenuator

Typical Applications

The IQS-3150 Variable Attenuator can be used in a number of test situations. It is ideal for manufacturing and laboratory applications:

³ Erbium-doped-fiber amplifier (EDFA) and system characterization

³ Component and system loss simulation

³ Optical margin analysis

³ Instrument calibration

³ Power meter linearity measurement

³ Spectral tuning.

The IQS-3150 is perfectly suited for WDM applications by providing the same attenuation level on all channels simultaneously for a complete characterization of amplifiers or subsystems.

Variable Attenuator 3

Introducing the IQS-3150 Variable Attenuator

Main Software Features

The dedicated software functions are very similar whether you are using a self-adjusting or standard module. The following is an overview of the main features.

Control Center

For the standard module, the output power value does not appear on the data display and there is no Output Power tab in the Control Center.

Self-adjusting module

Standard module

4 IQS-3150

Introducing the IQS-3150 Variable Attenuator

Main Software Features

Control Modes (Self-Adjusting Modules)

With the self-adjusting modules, you can select between two control modes: Attenuation and Output Power.

Control Mode Description

Attenuation The instrument applies the attenuation values you have selected.

The value appearing at the top of the data display (dB) represents your attenuation setting whether it was entered in a test sequence or on the Instrument function tab.

The value appearing underneath the attenuation value is the output power.

Output Power The instrument produces the output power level you have selected.

The value appearing at the top of the data display (dBm) represents your power level setting whether it was entered in a test sequence or on the Instrument function tab.

The value appearing underneath the attenuation value is the output power.

Variable Attenuator 5

Introducing the IQS-3150 Variable Attenuator

Main Software Features

Display Modes

Both standard and self-adjusting modules give you a choice of three display modes: Absolute, Reference, and X+B.

Attenuation

Display Mode Description

Absolute (default mode)

The displayed attenuation takes into account both the absolute value and the offset value.

Displayed att. = absolute att. + offset value

Reference The displayed attenuation value is relative to a defined reference value

(see Selecting a Display Mode on page 30).

Displayed att. = absolute att. – reference value + offset value

X+B The displayed attenuation is the sum of two elements:

³ X = physical attenuation introduced by the unit.

³ B = correction factor (dB). You must define the correction factor

for the test wavelength before enabling the X+B mode (refer to Setting the B Value on page 23).

Displayed att. = absolute att. + correction factor

³ B = input power value (dBm)

Displayed att. = (absolute att. × –1) + input power

a. The correction factor and the input power value are specific to the wavelength.

+ offset value

6 IQS-3150

Introducing the IQS-3150 Variable Attenuator

Output power

Display Mode Description

Main Software Features

Absolute (default mode)

The displayed output power takes into account both the absolute output power value and the offset value.

Displayed power = absolute power + offset value

Reference The displayed output power value is relative to a defined reference

value (see Selecting a Display Mode on page 30).

Displayed power = absolute power – reference value + offset value

X+B The displayed output power is the sum of two elements:

³ X = output power of the unit.

³ B = correction factor. You must define the correction factor for the

test wavelength before enabling the X+B mode (refer to Setting the B Value on page 23).

Displayed power = absolute power + correction factor

a. The correction factor value is specific to the wavelength.

+ offset value

Multiple Module Control

The multimodule application is used to control and monitor several IQS-3150 variable attenuators at the same time.

Variable Attenuator 7

Introducing the IQS-3150 Variable Attenuator

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.

8 IQS-3150

Introducing the IQS-3150 Variable Attenuator

Laser Safety Information

Your IQS-3150 Variable Attenuator does not include laser components in itself. However, other modules or units you will use may do so. Please, make sure to follow all laser safety rules.

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.

Variable Attenuator 9

2 Getting Started with Your

Variable Attenuator

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

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

Variable Attenuator 11

Getting Started with Your Variable Attenuator

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

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

Retaining screw knob

Retaining screw

Protruding edges (right side of module)

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.

12 IQS-3150

Getting Started with Your Variable Attenuator

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-3150 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

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

Variable Attenuator 13

Getting Started with Your Variable Attenuator

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

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.

CAUTION

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

14 IQS-3150

Getting Started with Your Variable Attenuator

Starting the Variable Attenuator Application

Your IQS-3150 Variable Attenuator 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.

Note: When starting the application for the first time after a firmware update, it is

possible that the wait period extends over two minutes. Please wait until the application start is finished before using other commands.

Variable Attenuator 15

Getting Started with Your Variable Attenuator

Starting the Variable Attenuator Application

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 Variable Attenuator:

Title bar

Data

display

Function tabs

Status bar

16 IQS-3150

Data Display

Some elements of the data display differ depending on the type of module you are using (standard or self-adjusting).

Self-adjusting module

Getting Started with Your Variable Attenuator

Starting the Variable Attenuator Application

Current attenuation (Attenuation control mode) or selected output power (Output Power control mode)

Output power

Standard module

Current attenuation

Shutter status and message area

Variable Attenuator 17

Getting Started with Your Variable Attenuator

Starting the Variable Attenuator 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-3150 Variable Attenuator.

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-3150 Variable Attenuator, refer to your platform user guide.

18 IQS-3150

Getting Started with Your Variable Attenuator

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.

Variable Attenuator 19

Getting Started with Your Variable Attenuator

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.

20 IQS-3150

3 Setting Up Your Variable

Attenuator

The IQS-3150 comes with factory default settings; however, you can create custom settings and save them in configuration files.

Basic Settings

When you start the Variable Attenuator dedicated application, it opens the

Instrument function tab. To start building your own test settings, click the Settings function tab.

Variable Attenuator 21

Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator

Basic Settings

Customizing the Wavelength and Fine-Tuning Step Lists

You can define lists of wavelengths and fine-tuning steps that will be available during operation.

To add a value to the lists:

1. On the Settings function tab, click the Presets tab and, under

Waveleng th or Fine-Tuning Step, enter the value in the New Value box.

2. Click the button to add the value to the list.

To delete a value from the lists:

1. On the Settings function tab, click the Presets tab and, under

Waveleng th or Fine-Tuning Step, click a value in the list to select it.

2. Click the button to delete the value.

22 IQS-3150

Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator

Basic Settings

Setting the B Value

The B value settings are necessary for the X+B display mode. These settings apply to one or many wavelengths defined in the Wa velength list and are only enabled when using this display mode. The B value settings are available for both standard and self adjusting modules.

The B value is defined as a correction factor or defined as an input power value representing the attenuation in the equivalent output power in dBm.

Correction Factor

The Correction factor is available for both Attenuation and Output Power control modes. This feature can be used to correct a difference in attenuation or output power from the original specification due to some changes in the equipment, such as a connector replacement.

Variable Attenuator 23

Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator

Basic Settings

To set a correction factor for a wavelength:

1. On the Settings function tab, click the Presets tab.

2. Under BValue, in the Wa velength list, use the up/down arrows to

select the wavelength for which you want to add a correction factor.

24 IQS-3150

+ 131 hidden pages

EXFO IQS-3150 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Certification Information

Models and Options

Typical Applications

Main Software Features

Conventions

Laser Safety Information

Inserting and Removing Test Modules

Starting the Variable Attenuator Application

Entering Values Using Sliders and Numeric Boxes

Exiting the Application

Basic Settings