EXFO PM-1600 User Manual
High-Speed Power Meter
PM-1600
User Guide
P/N: 1034911
CORPORATE
HEADQUARTERS
EXFO AMERICA 4275 Kellway Circle, Suite 122 Addison TX, 75001 USA
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© 2004 EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in Canada.
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#03-29, Manhattan House
Tel.: 1 418 683-0211 · Fax: 1 418 683-2170
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SINGAPORE 169876
Tel.: +6563338241 · Fax: +6563338242
High-Speed Power Meter
PM-1600
User Guide
P/N: 1034911
March 2002
If the equipment described herein
bears the symbol, the said
equipment complies with the
applicable European Union
Directive and Standards mentioned
in the Declaration of Conformity.
High-Speed Power Meter
PM-1600
User Guide
P/N: 1034911
March 2002
If the equipment described herein
bears the symbol, the said
equipment complies with the
applicable European Union
Directive and Standards mentioned
in the Declaration of Conformity.
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.
© 2002 EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc.
Words that EXFO considers trademarks have been identified as such.
However, neither the presence nor absence of such identification affects
the legal status of any trademark.
Units of measurement in this document conform to SI standards and
practices.
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.
© 2002 EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc.
Words that EXFO considers trademarks have been identified as such.
However, neither the presence nor absence of such identification affects
the legal status of any trademark.
Units of measurement in this document conform to SI standards and
practices.
Contents
High-Speed Power Meter iii
Contents
Certification Information......................................................................................................... vi
1 Introducing the PM-1600 High-Speed Power Meter .................................. 1
Front Panel...............................................................................................................................2
Back Panel................................................................................................................................3
RS-232 Connector Pinout .........................................................................................................4
2 Safety Information ....................................................................................... 5
Safety Conventions ..................................................................................................................5
General Safety Information ......................................................................................................6
Laser Safety Information ..........................................................................................................6
Electrical Safety Information ....................................................................................................7
3 Getting Started with Your High-Speed Power Meter ................................. 9
Turning the PM-1600 On and Off.............................................................................................9
Selecting a Menu or a Menu Option ......................................................................................10
Nulling Electrical Offsets ........................................................................................................11
4 Acquiring Power Measurements ............................................................... 13
Setting a Display Mode ..........................................................................................................13
Measuring Absolute Power ....................................................................................................14
Measuring Relative Power ......................................................................................................16
Measuring Corrected Power...................................................................................................19
Displaying Averaged Measurement........................................................................................22
Setting Measurement Range..................................................................................................22
Viewing Statistics...................................................................................................................24
Managing the Wavelength List ..............................................................................................25
Setting a Correction Factor ....................................................................................................30
Setting Display Resolution......................................................................................................32
Setting Refresh Rate...............................................................................................................34
Setting Sampling Rate............................................................................................................35
Choosing a Number of Measurements for Averaging ............................................................36
Saving a Setup Configuration ................................................................................................37
Recalling a Setup Configuration.............................................................................................38
Resetting the PM-1600 ..........................................................................................................39
5 Storing and Recalling Power Measurements ........................................... 41
Storing Power Measurements Manually.................................................................................41
Recalling Manually Stored Power Measurements ...................................................................42
Erasing Manually Stored Power Measurements......................................................................43
Contents
High-Speed Power Meter iii
Contents
Certification Information......................................................................................................... vi
1 Introducing the PM-1600 High-Speed Power Meter .................................. 1
Front Panel...............................................................................................................................2
Back Panel................................................................................................................................3
RS-232 Connector Pinout .........................................................................................................4
2 Safety Information ....................................................................................... 5
Safety Conventions ..................................................................................................................5
General Safety Information ......................................................................................................6
Laser Safety Information ..........................................................................................................6
Electrical Safety Information ....................................................................................................7
3 Getting Started with Your High-Speed Power Meter ................................. 9
Turning the PM-1600 On and Off.............................................................................................9
Selecting a Menu or a Menu Option ......................................................................................10
Nulling Electrical Offsets ........................................................................................................11
4 Acquiring Power Measurements ............................................................... 13
Setting a Display Mode ..........................................................................................................13
Measuring Absolute Power ....................................................................................................14
Measuring Relative Power ......................................................................................................16
Measuring Corrected Power...................................................................................................19
Displaying Averaged Measurement........................................................................................22
Setting Measurement Range..................................................................................................22
Viewing Statistics...................................................................................................................24
Managing the Wavelength List ..............................................................................................25
Setting a Correction Factor ....................................................................................................30
Setting Display Resolution......................................................................................................32
Setting Refresh Rate...............................................................................................................34
Setting Sampling Rate............................................................................................................35
Choosing a Number of Measurements for Averaging ............................................................36
Saving a Setup Configuration ................................................................................................37
Recalling a Setup Configuration.............................................................................................38
Resetting the PM-1600 ..........................................................................................................39
5 Storing and Recalling Power Measurements ........................................... 41
Storing Power Measurements Manually.................................................................................41
Recalling Manually Stored Power Measurements ...................................................................42
Erasing Manually Stored Power Measurements......................................................................43
Contents
iv PM-1600
6 Programming Acquisitions .........................................................................45
Programming Data Acquisitions.............................................................................................45
Programming Timed Acquisitions ..........................................................................................46
Programming Triggered Acquisitions .....................................................................................49
Saving a Program Configuration ............................................................................................53
Recalling a Program Configuration ........................................................................................54
7 Performing Typical Tests with Your PM-1600 ............................................55
Performing Absolute Power Measurements ...........................................................................56
Measuring Insertion Loss .......................................................................................................57
Testing Instrument Linearity ...................................................................................................58
Characterizing an Optical Switch ...........................................................................................60
Using the External Trigger ......................................................................................................63
Using the Analog Output.......................................................................................................65
8 Controlling the PM-1600 Automatically or Remotely ...............................67
Setting Up the PM-1600 for Remote Control .........................................................................68
Communication Parameters...................................................................................................69
Standard Status Data Structure..............................................................................................70
Command Structure...............................................................................................................72
General Commands—Quick Reference...................................................................................73
Specific Commands—Quick Reference ...................................................................................75
Error Messages.......................................................................................................................80
SCPI Management Errors (System Errors) ...............................................................................81
PM-1600 Error Messages .......................................................................................................82
9 Customizing the PM-1600 Display .............................................................83
Setting Backlight....................................................................................................................83
Setting Display Contrast.........................................................................................................84
Choosing Video Mode............................................................................................................84
10 Maintenance ................................................................................................87
Cleaning the Front Panel........................................................................................................87
Cleaning Fixed Connectors .....................................................................................................88
Cleaning Connectors Equipped with EUI/EUA Adapters .........................................................90
Cleaning EUI/EUA Adapters....................................................................................................92
Cleaning Detector Ports .........................................................................................................94
Cleaning the Analog Output and External Trigger Ports.........................................................95
Replacing the Fuse .................................................................................................................96
Recalibrating the Unit ............................................................................................................97
Software Upgrade..................................................................................................................97
Contents
iv PM-1600
6 Programming Acquisitions .........................................................................45
Programming Data Acquisitions.............................................................................................45
Programming Timed Acquisitions ..........................................................................................46
Programming Triggered Acquisitions .....................................................................................49
Saving a Program Configuration ............................................................................................53
Recalling a Program Configuration ........................................................................................54
7 Performing Typical Tests with Your PM-1600 ............................................55
Performing Absolute Power Measurements ...........................................................................56
Measuring Insertion Loss .......................................................................................................57
Testing Instrument Linearity ...................................................................................................58
Characterizing an Optical Switch ...........................................................................................60
Using the External Trigger ......................................................................................................63
Using the Analog Output.......................................................................................................65
8 Controlling the PM-1600 Automatically or Remotely ...............................67
Setting Up the PM-1600 for Remote Control .........................................................................68
Communication Parameters...................................................................................................69
Standard Status Data Structure..............................................................................................70
Command Structure...............................................................................................................72
General Commands—Quick Reference...................................................................................73
Specific Commands—Quick Reference ...................................................................................75
Error Messages.......................................................................................................................80
SCPI Management Errors (System Errors) ...............................................................................81
PM-1600 Error Messages .......................................................................................................82
9 Customizing the PM-1600 Display .............................................................83
Setting Backlight....................................................................................................................83
Setting Display Contrast.........................................................................................................84
Choosing Video Mode............................................................................................................84
10 Maintenance ................................................................................................87
Cleaning the Front Panel........................................................................................................87
Cleaning Fixed Connectors .....................................................................................................88
Cleaning Connectors Equipped with EUI/EUA Adapters .........................................................90
Cleaning EUI/EUA Adapters....................................................................................................92
Cleaning Detector Ports .........................................................................................................94
Cleaning the Analog Output and External Trigger Ports.........................................................95
Replacing the Fuse .................................................................................................................96
Recalibrating the Unit ............................................................................................................97
Software Upgrade..................................................................................................................97
Contents
High-Speed Power Meter v
11 Troubleshooting ....................................................................................... 101
Finding Information on the EXFO Web Site..........................................................................102
Contacting the Technical Support Group .............................................................................103
Transportation......................................................................................................................104
12 Warranty ................................................................................................... 105
General Information.............................................................................................................105
Liability ................................................................................................................................106
Exclusions ............................................................................................................................106
Certification .........................................................................................................................106
Service and Repairs ..............................................................................................................107
EXFO Service Centers Worldwide .........................................................................................108
A Technical Specifications ........................................................................... 109
B Remote Control (SCPI) Commands ......................................................... 111
General Commands..............................................................................................................111
Specific Commands..............................................................................................................118
Index ............................................................................................................... 147
Contents
High-Speed Power Meter v
11 Troubleshooting ....................................................................................... 101
Finding Information on the EXFO Web Site..........................................................................102
Contacting the Technical Support Group .............................................................................103
Transportation......................................................................................................................104
12 Warranty ................................................................................................... 105
General Information.............................................................................................................105
Liability ................................................................................................................................106
Exclusions ............................................................................................................................106
Certification .........................................................................................................................106
Service and Repairs ..............................................................................................................107
EXFO Service Centers Worldwide .........................................................................................108
A Technical Specifications ........................................................................... 109
B Remote Control (SCPI) Commands ......................................................... 111
General Commands..............................................................................................................111
Specific Commands..............................................................................................................118
Index ............................................................................................................... 147
Certification Information
vi PM-1600
Certification Information
F.C.C. Information
Electronic test equipment is exempt from Part 15 compliance (FCC) in
the United States, but EXFO makes reasonable efforts to ensure this
compliance.
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 been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A
digital device. Please refer to the Declaration of Conformity.
CSA Information
This unit received CSA certification under the model name “GO”. The CSA
Certificate Number is 162451. The “C-US” indicator adjacent to the CSA
Mark signifies that the product has been evaluated to the applicable
ANSI/UL and CSA Standards, for use in the United States and Canada.
Independent Laboratory Testing
This unit has undergone extensive testing according to the European Union
Directive and Standards. All pre-qualification tests were performed
internally, at EXFO, while all final tests were performed externally, at an
independent, accredited laboratory. This guarantees the unerring
objectivity and authoritative compliance of all test results.
➤ 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.
Certification Information
vi PM-1600
Certification Information
F.C.C. Information
Electronic test equipment is exempt from Part 15 compliance (FCC) in
the United States, but EXFO makes reasonable efforts to ensure this
compliance.
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 been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A
digital device. Please refer to the Declaration of Conformity.
CSA Information
This unit received CSA certification under the model name “GO”. The CSA
Certificate Number is 162451. The “C-US” indicator adjacent to the CSA
Mark signifies that the product has been evaluated to the applicable
ANSI/UL and CSA Standards, for use in the United States and Canada.
Independent Laboratory Testing
This unit has undergone extensive testing according to the European Union
Directive and Standards. All pre-qualification tests were performed
internally, at EXFO, while all final tests were performed externally, at an
independent, accredited laboratory. This guarantees the unerring
objectivity and authoritative compliance of all test results.
➤ 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.
Certification Information
High-Speed Power Meter vii
Application of Council Directive(s): 73/23/EEC - The Low Voltage Directive
89/336/EEC - The EMC Directive
Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO ELECTRO-OPTICAL ENG.
Manufacturer’s Address: 465 Godin Avenue
Vanier, Quebec
Canada G1M 3G7
(418) 683-0211
Equipment Type/Environment: Industrial Scientific Equipment
Trade Name/Model No.: PM-1600 High-Speed Power Meter
Year of Conformity Assessment: 2001
Stan dard(s) to whic h Conformi ty is Dec lared:
EN 61010-1:1993/
A2:1995
Safety Requi remen ts f or Elec trica l Eq uipm ent for Meas ureme nt, Cont rol, and
Laboratory Us e, P art 1: Ge neral Req uirem ents.
EN 55022:1994/
A2:1997
Limi ts an d Met hods of Me asurem ent o f Rad io Di sturbance Charac terist ics o f
Information Technology Equipment.
EN 50082-1:1997 Gen eric Immunit y fo r Re side ntial, Commer cial , an d Li ght Indu strial Environment
I, the undersigned, hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the above Directive and Standards.
Man ufac turer
Signature:
Full Name: Stephen Bull, E. Eng
Position: Vice-President Research and
Development
Address: 465 Godin Avenue Vanier, Quebec,
Canada
Date: November 15, 2001
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Certification Information
High-Speed Power Meter vii
Application of Council Directive(s): 73/23/EEC - The Low Voltage Directive
89/336/EEC - The EMC Directive
Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO ELECTRO-OPTICAL ENG.
Manufacturer’s Address: 465 Godin Avenue
Vanier, Quebec
Canada G1M 3G7
(418) 683-0211
Equipment Type/Environment: Industrial Scientific Equipment
Trade Name/Model No.: PM-1600 High-Speed Power Meter
Year of Conformity Assessment: 2001
Stan dard(s) to whic h Conformi ty is Dec lared:
EN 61010-1:1993/
A2:1995
Safety Requi remen ts f or Elec trica l Eq uipm ent for Meas ureme nt, Cont rol, and
Laboratory Us e, P art 1: Ge neral Req uirem ents.
EN 55022:1994/
A2:1997
Limi ts an d Met hods of Me asurem ent o f Rad io Di sturbance Charac terist ics o f
Information Technology Equipment.
EN 50082-1:1997 Gen eric Immunit y fo r Re side ntial, Commer cial , an d Li ght Indu strial Environment
I, the undersigned, hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the above Directive and Standards.
Man ufac turer
Signature:
Full Name: Stephen Bull, E. Eng
Position: Vice-President Research and
Development
Address: 465 Godin Avenue Vanier, Quebec,
Canada
Date: November 15, 2001
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
High-Speed Power Meter 1
1 Introducing the PM-1600
High-Speed Power Meter
The PM-1600 High-Speed Power meter provides all the performance you
need to increase your testing efficiency. With its high sampling rate and fast
stabilization time, the PM-1600 is ideal for system monitoring and
high-density WDM component characterization and assembly.
The PM-1600 is available with one or two detectors. Each power channel
(detector) is independently controlled (except for the acquisition
frequency) and can achieve a sampling rate of up to 4096 Hz.
Power transitions of up to 95 dB will stabilize within 15 ms. Faster
stabilization time will be achieved with reduced dynamic range.
Stabilization within 1 ms is possible when the gain of the detector
amplification stage is manually locked on a specific scale (“Manual
Range”).
Power measurement acquisitions can be electrically synchronized with the
external trigger input or optically synchronized by programming a power
level threshold.
In addition to the standard, 1 mm InGaAs detector, the PM-1600 power
meter series offers a new detector option, the PM-1600W wide-area
detector. This power meter, equipped with a 3 mm diameter InGaAs
detector, offers excellent repeatability for in-process testing of components
before they are connectorized. Also, this large detector option improves the
stabilization time of the module over the complete dynamic range.
Particularly user-friendly with its state-of-the-art technology display, the
PM-1600 features absolute power (in watts or dBm) and relative power
(dB or W/W) measurements, manual data storage, and programmed data
acquisition. The PM-1600 is particularly suited for the most demanding
laboratory, qualification, and manufacturing applications. It can be
remotely controlled through a GPIB or RS-232 interface.
High-Speed Power Meter 1
1 Introducing the PM-1600
High-Speed Power Meter
The PM-1600 High-Speed Power meter provides all the performance you
need to increase your testing efficiency. With its high sampling rate and fast
stabilization time, the PM-1600 is ideal for system monitoring and
high-density WDM component characterization and assembly.
The PM-1600 is available with one or two detectors. Each power channel
(detector) is independently controlled (except for the acquisition
frequency) and can achieve a sampling rate of up to 4096 Hz.
Power transitions of up to 95 dB will stabilize within 15 ms. Faster
stabilization time will be achieved with reduced dynamic range.
Stabilization within 1 ms is possible when the gain of the detector
amplification stage is manually locked on a specific scale (“Manual
Range”).
Power measurement acquisitions can be electrically synchronized with the
external trigger input or optically synchronized by programming a power
level threshold.
In addition to the standard, 1 mm InGaAs detector, the PM-1600 power
meter series offers a new detector option, the PM-1600W wide-area
detector. This power meter, equipped with a 3 mm diameter InGaAs
detector, offers excellent repeatability for in-process testing of components
before they are connectorized. Also, this large detector option improves the
stabilization time of the module over the complete dynamic range.
Particularly user-friendly with its state-of-the-art technology display, the
PM-1600 features absolute power (in watts or dBm) and relative power
(dB or W/W) measurements, manual data storage, and programmed data
acquisition. The PM-1600 is particularly suited for the most demanding
laboratory, qualification, and manufacturing applications. It can be
remotely controlled through a GPIB or RS-232 interface.
Introducing the PM-1600 High-Speed Power Meter
2 PM-1600
Front Panel
Front Panel
Note: Your PM-1600 may slightly differ from the above illustration.
HIGH-SPEED POWER METER
PM-1600
dB W/W
ENTER
dBm/W Ref
Null
Chan
Range
λ
Avg Shift
Store
Recall
Program
Setup
Analog Out
C1 C2
Ext. Trig
Display
Channel #2 detector port
Relative mode control
see page 16
Power range control
see page 22
Store menu access
see page 41
Confirmation
button
Absolute mode control
see page 14
Average mode control
see page 22
Wavelength control
see page 11
Arrow buttons for
menu navigation and
parameter settings
Recall menu access
see page 42
Program menu access
see page 46
Setup menu access
see page 18
External trigger port
Secondary function control
Channel #1 detector port
Analog output port
On/off button
Display
Channel control (PM-1620)
see page 13
Display mode control
see page 13
Offset nulling control
see page 11
Reference control
see page 16
Introducing the PM-1600 High-Speed Power Meter
2 PM-1600
Front Panel
Front Panel
Note: Your PM-1600 may slightly differ from the above illustration.
HIGH-SPEED POWER METER
PM-1600
dB W/W
ENTER
dBm/W Ref
Null
Chan
Range
λ
Avg Shift
Store
Recall
Program
Setup
Analog Out
C1 C2
Ext. Trig
Display
Channel #2 detector port
Relative mode control
see page 16
Power range control
see page 22
Store menu access
see page 41
Confirmation
button
Absolute mode control
see page 14
Average mode control
see page 22
Wavelength control
see page 11
Arrow buttons for
menu navigation and
parameter settings
Recall menu access
see page 42
Program menu access
see page 46
Setup menu access
see page 18
External trigger port
Secondary function control
Channel #1 detector port
Analog output port
On/off button
Display
Channel control (PM-1620)
see page 13
Display mode control
see page 13
Offset nulling control
see page 11
Reference control
see page 16
Introducing the PM-1600 High-Speed Power Meter
High-Speed Power Meter 3
Back Panel
Back Panel
Note: Your PM-1600 may slightly differ from the above illustration.
Ver.
Serial port (RS-232 DTE)
see page 4
Fuse holder
see page 96
Power inlet
see page 8
GPIB port
see page 67
Electro-Optical Engineering
465 Godin Ave.
Vanier, Que., Canada G1M 3G7
R
GPIB IEEE 488.2
SH1, AH1, T6, L4, SR1, RL1, PP0, DC1, DT1, C0, E2
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause
harmful interference and (2) this devic e must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Made in Canada
P/N
S/N
Ver.
Mfg.
date
QST-151E
Serial Port
MODEL: GO
LR107723
100-240 V
50/60 Hz
2 A
F2AL250 V
Ground
PM-1623
12345-AB
A-2.0
November 2001
CUS
P/N
S/N
Mfg.
date
Part number
Serial number
Version number
Manufacturing
Introducing the PM-1600 High-Speed Power Meter
High-Speed Power Meter 3
Back Panel
Back Panel
Note: Your PM-1600 may slightly differ from the above illustration.
Ver.
Serial port (RS-232 DTE)
see page 4
Fuse holder
see page 96
Power inlet
see page 8
GPIB port
see page 67
Electro-Optical Engineering
465 Godin Ave.
Vanier, Que., Canada G1M 3G7
R
GPIB IEEE 488.2
SH1, AH1, T6, L4, SR1, RL1, PP0, DC1, DT1, C0, E2
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause
harmful interference and (2) this devic e must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Made in Canada
P/N
S/N
Ver.
Mfg.
date
QST-151E
Serial Port
MODEL: GO
LR107723
100-240 V
50/60 Hz
2 A
F2AL250 V
Ground
PM-1623
12345-AB
A-2.0
November 2001
CUS
P/N
S/N
Mfg.
date
Part number
Serial number
Version number
Manufacturing
Introducing the PM-1600 High-Speed Power Meter
4 PM-1600
RS-232 Connector Pinout
RS-232 Connector Pinout
The RS-232 connector (serial port) at the back of the PM-1600 uses a DTE
pinout configuration.
Pin Description Direction
2 Receive (Rx) Input
3 Transmit (Tx) Output
5 Signal ground (Gnd) —
1234 5
6789
Introducing the PM-1600 High-Speed Power Meter
4 PM-1600
RS-232 Connector Pinout
RS-232 Connector Pinout
The RS-232 connector (serial port) at the back of the PM-1600 uses a DTE
pinout configuration.
Pin Description Direction
2 Receive (Rx) Input
3 Transmit (Tx) Output
5 Signal ground (Gnd) —
1234 5
6789
High-Speed Power Meter 5
2 Safety Information
Safety Conventions
You should understand the following conventions before using the product
described in this manual:
WARNING
Refers to a potential personal hazard. It requires a
procedure which, if not correctly followed, may result
in bodily harm or injury. Do not proceed beyond a
WARNING unless you understand and meet the
required conditions.
CAUTION
Refers to a potential product hazard. It requires a
procedure which, if not correctly followed, may result
in component damage. Do not proceed beyond a
CAUTION unless you understand and meet the
required conditions.
IMPORTANT
Refers to any information regarding the operation of
the product which you should not overlook.
High-Speed Power Meter 5
2 Safety Information
Safety Conventions
You should understand the following conventions before using the product
described in this manual:
WARNING
Refers to a potential personal hazard. It requires a
procedure which, if not correctly followed, may result
in bodily harm or injury. Do not proceed beyond a
WARNING unless you understand and meet the
required conditions.
CAUTION
Refers to a potential product hazard. It requires a
procedure which, if not correctly followed, may result
in component damage. Do not proceed beyond a
CAUTION unless you understand and meet the
required conditions.
IMPORTANT
Refers to any information regarding the operation of
the product which you should not overlook.
Safety Information
6 PM-1600
General Safety Information
General Safety Information
The following safety precautions must be observed during the operation
and servicing of the units. Failure to comply with these precautions or with
specific indications elsewhere in this manual violates safety standards of
intended use of the unit. EXFO assumes no liability for the user's failure to
comply with these requirements.
➤ This unit is intended for indoor use only.
➤ Unit covers cannot be removed during operation.
➤ The unit must be positioned in a way not to block the ventilation holes
located on each side of the unit.
➤ Installation of replacement parts or modification of the unit should be
carried out by authorized personnel only.
Laser Safety Information
WARNING
Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other
than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation
exposure.
WARNING
Do not install or terminate fibers while a laser source is active.
Never look directly into a live fiber and ensure that your eyes are
protected at all times.
Safety Information
6 PM-1600
General Safety Information
General Safety Information
The following safety precautions must be observed during the operation
and servicing of the units. Failure to comply with these precautions or with
specific indications elsewhere in this manual violates safety standards of
intended use of the unit. EXFO assumes no liability for the user's failure to
comply with these requirements.
➤ This unit is intended for indoor use only.
➤ Unit covers cannot be removed during operation.
➤ The unit must be positioned in a way not to block the ventilation holes
located on each side of the unit.
➤ Installation of replacement parts or modification of the unit should be
carried out by authorized personnel only.
Laser Safety Information
WARNING
Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other
than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation
exposure.
WARNING
Do not install or terminate fibers while a laser source is active.
Never look directly into a live fiber and ensure that your eyes are
protected at all times.
Safety Information
High-Speed Power Meter 7
Electrical Safety Information
Electrical Safety Information
➤ Before powering on the unit, all grounding terminals, extension cords,
and devices connected to it should be connected to a protective
ground via a ground socket. Any interruption of the protective
grounding is a potential shock hazard and may cause personal injury.
➤ Whenever the ground protection is impaired, the unit is not to be used
and must be secured against any accidental or unintended operation.
➤ Only fuses with the required rated current and specified type
(IEC, 250 V, 2 A, fast blow,5 mm x 20 mm (0.197 in x 0.787 in)) may be
used for replacement. Do not use repaired fuses or short-circuited fuse
holders.
➤ Any adjustments, maintenance, and repair of opened units under
voltage should be avoided and carried out only by skilled personnel
aware of the hazards involved. Do not attempt internal service or
adjustment unless another person qualified in first aid is present. Do
not replace any components while power cable is connected.
➤ Operation of any electrical instrument around flammable gases or
fumes constitutes a major safety hazard.
➤ Capacitors inside the unit may be charged even if the unit has been
disconnected from its electrical supply.
AC Requirements
The PM-1600 can operate from any single-phase AC power source between
100 V and 240 V (50 Hz/60 Hz). The maximum input current is 2 A.
Safety Information
High-Speed Power Meter 7
Electrical Safety Information
Electrical Safety Information
➤ Before powering on the unit, all grounding terminals, extension cords,
and devices connected to it should be connected to a protective
ground via a ground socket. Any interruption of the protective
grounding is a potential shock hazard and may cause personal injury.
➤ Whenever the ground protection is impaired, the unit is not to be used
and must be secured against any accidental or unintended operation.
➤ Only fuses with the required rated current and specified type
(IEC, 250 V, 2 A, fast blow,5 mm x 20 mm (0.197 in x 0.787 in)) may be
used for replacement. Do not use repaired fuses or short-circuited fuse
holders.
➤ Any adjustments, maintenance, and repair of opened units under
voltage should be avoided and carried out only by skilled personnel
aware of the hazards involved. Do not attempt internal service or
adjustment unless another person qualified in first aid is present. Do
not replace any components while power cable is connected.
➤ Operation of any electrical instrument around flammable gases or
fumes constitutes a major safety hazard.
➤ Capacitors inside the unit may be charged even if the unit has been
disconnected from its electrical supply.
AC Requirements
The PM-1600 can operate from any single-phase AC power source between
100 V and 240 V (50 Hz/60 Hz). The maximum input current is 2 A.
Safety Information
8 PM-1600
Electrical Safety Information
Power Cable
The PM-1600’s power cable is its disconnecting device.
The PM-1600 uses an international safety standard three-wire power cable.
This cable serves as a ground when connected to an appropriate AC power
receptacle. The type of power cable supplied with each unit is determined
according to the country of destination.
Only qualified electricians should connect a new plug if needed. The color
coding used in the electric cable depends on the cable. New plugs should
meet the local safety requirements and include the following features:
➤ adequate load-carrying capacity
➤ ground connection
➤ cable clamp
➤ If the unit is to be powered via an auto-transformer for voltage
reduction, the common terminal must be connected to the grounded
power source pole.
➤ Insert the plug into a power outlet with a protective ground contact. Do
not use an extension cord without a protective conductor.
➤ Before powering on the unit, the protective ground terminal of the unit
must be connected to a protective conductor using the unit power
cord.
➤ Do not tamper with the protective ground terminal.
WARNING
To avoid electrical shock, do not operate the unit if there are signs
of damage to any part of the outer surface (covers, panels, etc.).
To avoid serious injury, the following precautions must be observed
before powering on the unit.
Safety Information
8 PM-1600
Electrical Safety Information
Power Cable
The PM-1600’s power cable is its disconnecting device.
The PM-1600 uses an international safety standard three-wire power cable.
This cable serves as a ground when connected to an appropriate AC power
receptacle. The type of power cable supplied with each unit is determined
according to the country of destination.
Only qualified electricians should connect a new plug if needed. The color
coding used in the electric cable depends on the cable. New plugs should
meet the local safety requirements and include the following features:
➤ adequate load-carrying capacity
➤ ground connection
➤ cable clamp
➤ If the unit is to be powered via an auto-transformer for voltage
reduction, the common terminal must be connected to the grounded
power source pole.
➤ Insert the plug into a power outlet with a protective ground contact. Do
not use an extension cord without a protective conductor.
➤ Before powering on the unit, the protective ground terminal of the unit
must be connected to a protective conductor using the unit power
cord.
➤ Do not tamper with the protective ground terminal.
WARNING
To avoid electrical shock, do not operate the unit if there are signs
of damage to any part of the outer surface (covers, panels, etc.).
To avoid serious injury, the following precautions must be observed
before powering on the unit.
High-Speed Power Meter 9
3 Getting Started with Your
High-Speed Power Meter
Turning the PM-1600 On and Off
To turn the unit on or off, use the red button in the lower left corner of the
front panel.
When you turn on the unit, it beeps twice and performs a self-test, while
displaying startup information as well as the software version number.
Before taking any measurements, it is recommended that you null the
detector offsets (see Nulling Electrical Offsets on page 11).
When the unit is turned off, the following items remain in non-volatile
memory:
➤ manually stored data
➤ reference values
➤ remote-control settings
➤ shortlisted wavelengths
➤ customized settings
➤ saved configurations (up to three setup configurations and up to three
program configurations)
Note: To ensure the power is completely turned off, disconnect the power cord.
IMPORTANT
Before turning the PM-1600 on, please read the Safety Information
on page 5.
High-Speed Power Meter 9
3 Getting Started with Your
High-Speed Power Meter
Turning the PM-1600 On and Off
To turn the unit on or off, use the red button in the lower left corner of the
front panel.
When you turn on the unit, it beeps twice and performs a self-test, while
displaying startup information as well as the software version number.
Before taking any measurements, it is recommended that you null the
detector offsets (see Nulling Electrical Offsets on page 11).
When the unit is turned off, the following items remain in non-volatile
memory:
➤ manually stored data
➤ reference values
➤ remote-control settings
➤ shortlisted wavelengths
➤ customized settings
➤ saved configurations (up to three setup configurations and up to three
program configurations)
Note: To ensure the power is completely turned off, disconnect the power cord.
IMPORTANT
Before turning the PM-1600 on, please read the Safety Information
on page 5.
Getting Started with Your High-Speed Power Meter
10 PM-1600
Selecting a Menu or a Menu Option
Selecting a Menu or a Menu Option
The PM-1600 is equipped with a new type of multifunctional, graphical
liquid crystal display (LCD) with increased brightness, readability, and
resolution that significantly improves both menu navigation and power
meter operation versatility.
For basic PM-1600 operation, simply press the control buttons at the bottom
of the display.
HIGH-SPEED POWER METER
PM-1600
dB W/W
ENTER
dBm/W Ref
Null
Chan
Range
λ
Avg Shift
Store
Recall
Program
Setup
Analog Out
C1 C2
Ext. Trig
Display
To access a secondary function, press Shift (SH
marker appears in the lower right corner of the
display), then press the desired control button.
To select a menu, press the matching menu
button. For more information, see Storing and
Recalling Power Measurements on page 41 and
Customizing the PM-1600 Display on page 83.
To select a menu option, use the up/down or
left/right arrow keys until the desired option is
highlighted, then confirm by pressing ENTER.
To exit a menu, use the up/down or left/right
arrow keys until Exit is highlighted, then press
ENTER. You c a n al so press the button that gave
access to the menu.
Getting Started with Your High-Speed Power Meter
10 PM-1600
Selecting a Menu or a Menu Option
Selecting a Menu or a Menu Option
The PM-1600 is equipped with a new type of multifunctional, graphical
liquid crystal display (LCD) with increased brightness, readability, and
resolution that significantly improves both menu navigation and power
meter operation versatility.
For basic PM-1600 operation, simply press the control buttons at the bottom
of the display.
HIGH-SPEED POWER METER
PM-1600
dB W/W
ENTER
dBm/W Ref
Null
Chan
Range
λ
Avg Shift
Store
Recall
Program
Setup
Analog Out
C1 C2
Ext. Trig
Display
To access a secondary function, press Shift (SH
marker appears in the lower right corner of the
display), then press the desired control button.
To select a menu, press the matching menu
button. For more information, see Storing and
Recalling Power Measurements on page 41 and
Customizing the PM-1600 Display on page 83.
To select a menu option, use the up/down or
left/right arrow keys until the desired option is
highlighted, then confirm by pressing ENTER.
To exit a menu, use the up/down or left/right
arrow keys until Exit is highlighted, then press
ENTER. You c a n al so press the button that gave
access to the menu.
Getting Started with Your High-Speed Power Meter
High-Speed Power Meter 11
Nulling Electrical Offsets
Note: The PM-1600 will beep whenever the unit does not allow an operation.
Note: In this manual, the single-channel power meter is referred to as the
PM-1610 and the dual-channel power meter as the PM-1620.
Nulling Electrical Offsets
The Offset Nulling function provides a zero power measurement, thus
eliminating the effects of electronic dark current. For best results and
accuracy, ensure that offsets are nulled before each test session, each time
the unit is turned on, or whenever environmental conditions change while
the power meter is operating (temperature and humidity variations affect
the performance of optical detectors).
To perform a nulling,
1. Place the protective cap over the detector port on which a nulling has
to be performed.
IMPORTANT
Light must not reach the detector when nulling offsets.
When the PM-1600 is turned on after a cold start, allow the unit to
warm up for about 20 minutes (30 minutes for PM-1600W) until the
electronics stabilize and can meet announced optical specifications.
1
AUTO
λ
1310.00 nm
- - - - - - -
dBm
2
LR4 CF
1550.00 nm
1.26
W/W
SH
λ
Getting Started with Your High-Speed Power Meter
High-Speed Power Meter 11
Nulling Electrical Offsets
Note: The PM-1600 will beep whenever the unit does not allow an operation.
Note: In this manual, the single-channel power meter is referred to as the
PM-1610 and the dual-channel power meter as the PM-1620.
Nulling Electrical Offsets
The Offset Nulling function provides a zero power measurement, thus
eliminating the effects of electronic dark current. For best results and
accuracy, ensure that offsets are nulled before each test session, each time
the unit is turned on, or whenever environmental conditions change while
the power meter is operating (temperature and humidity variations affect
the performance of optical detectors).
To perform a nulling,
1. Place the protective cap over the detector port on which a nulling has
to be performed.
IMPORTANT
Light must not reach the detector when nulling offsets.
When the PM-1600 is turned on after a cold start, allow the unit to
warm up for about 20 minutes (30 minutes for PM-1600W) until the
electronics stabilize and can meet announced optical specifications.
1
AUTO
λ
1310.00 nm
- - - - - - -
dBm
2
LR4 CF
1550.00 nm
1.26
W/W
SH
λ
Getting Started with Your High-Speed Power Meter
12 PM-1600
Nulling Electrical Offsets
2. If necessary, select the desired channel (in the case of a PM-1620) by
pressing Chan. In the above figure, channel #1 is currently selected.
3. Press Shift, then Null. The offset nulling process takes approximately
10 seconds. Once done, the unit returns to the previously active
operation state.
Note: If you are trying to perform an offset nulling with a protective cap
improperly tightened on the detector port, the message Light detected will
be briefly displayed. If so, ensure the protective cap is properly tightened
and restart the offset nulling.
Note: Offset nulling constants are retained until a new offset nulling is performed.
Getting Started with Your High-Speed Power Meter
12 PM-1600
Nulling Electrical Offsets
2. If necessary, select the desired channel (in the case of a PM-1620) by
pressing Chan. In the above figure, channel #1 is currently selected.
3. Press Shift, then Null. The offset nulling process takes approximately
10 seconds. Once done, the unit returns to the previously active
operation state.
Note: If you are trying to perform an offset nulling with a protective cap
improperly tightened on the detector port, the message Light detected will
be briefly displayed. If so, ensure the protective cap is properly tightened
and restart the offset nulling.
Note: Offset nulling constants are retained until a new offset nulling is performed.
High-Speed Power Meter 13
4 Acquiring Power
Measurements
Setting a Display Mode
A typical display in power measurement mode might look as follows.
To set the display mode, i.e., the data type at the bottom of the display,
1. If necessary, select the desired channel (PM-1620) by pressing Chan.
The current wavelength is displayed for the active channel. In the
above figure, channel #2 is currently selected.
2. Press Shift, then Display. The current reference value is displayed for
the active channel (in dBm or W units, depending on the currently
selected measurement unit).
AVG1
AUTO
REF
-52.640 dBm
5.585
dB
2
LR4 CF
1310.26 nm
1.26
dB
Sensitivity range
(auto) active
Sensitivity range
(manual) active
Channel 1 display zone
Channel 2 display zone
Inactive channel
Active channel
Averaging
mode
active
Correction factor
active
Power
reading
Reference value
(channel #1)
Current unit
Current wavelength
(channel #2)
Secondary function
indicator
SH
λ
Display mode
tab
O
Offset
indicator
Current unit
High-Speed Power Meter 13
4 Acquiring Power
Measurements
Setting a Display Mode
A typical display in power measurement mode might look as follows.
To set the display mode, i.e., the data type at the bottom of the display,
1. If necessary, select the desired channel (PM-1620) by pressing Chan.
The current wavelength is displayed for the active channel. In the
above figure, channel #2 is currently selected.
2. Press Shift, then Display. The current reference value is displayed for
the active channel (in dBm or W units, depending on the currently
selected measurement unit).
AVG1
AUTO
REF
-52.640 dBm
5.585
dB
2
LR4 CF
1310.26 nm
1.26
dB
Sensitivity range
(auto) active
Sensitivity range
(manual) active
Channel 1 display zone
Channel 2 display zone
Inactive channel
Active channel
Averaging
mode
active
Correction factor
active
Power
reading
Reference value
(channel #1)
Current unit
Current wavelength
(channel #2)
Secondary function
indicator
SH
λ
Display mode
tab
O
Offset
indicator
Current unit
Acquiring Power Measurements
14 PM-1600
Measuring Absolute Power
3. Press Shift a second time, then Display. The current correction factor
(CF) is displayed for the active channel (in dB or W/W units,
depending on the currently selected measurement unit).
4. Press Shift again, then Display. The Offset value (O) appears for the
active channel (in dB or W/W units, depending on the currently
selected measurement unit).
Note: On a PM-1610 single-channel power meter, two different data types
simultaneously appear at the bottom of the display. To select the desired
display mode, just press Display.
Measuring Absolute Power
When in absolute power, measured values are displayed in either dBm or
W units (pW, nW, µW, mW...) according to the power of the signal, and the
displayed value represents the absolute optical power reaching the
detector within specified uncertainty.
To display absolute power,
1. If necessary, select the desired channel (PM-1620). In the above figure,
channel #1 is currently selected.
1
AUTO
λ
1310.00 nm
-14.278
dBm
2
LR2 CF
1550.00 nm
1.26
W/W
SH
λ
Power reading
Current wavelength Measurement unit
Acquiring Power Measurements
14 PM-1600
Measuring Absolute Power
3. Press Shift a second time, then Display. The current correction factor
(CF) is displayed for the active channel (in dB or W/W units,
depending on the currently selected measurement unit).
4. Press Shift again, then Display. The Offset value (O) appears for the
active channel (in dB or W/W units, depending on the currently
selected measurement unit).
Note: On a PM-1610 single-channel power meter, two different data types
simultaneously appear at the bottom of the display. To select the desired
display mode, just press Display.
Measuring Absolute Power
When in absolute power, measured values are displayed in either dBm or
W units (pW, nW, µW, mW...) according to the power of the signal, and the
displayed value represents the absolute optical power reaching the
detector within specified uncertainty.
To display absolute power,
1. If necessary, select the desired channel (PM-1620). In the above figure,
channel #1 is currently selected.
1
AUTO
λ
1310.00 nm
-14.278
dBm
2
LR2 CF
1550.00 nm
1.26
W/W
SH
λ
Power reading
Current wavelength Measurement unit
Acquiring Power Measurements
High-Speed Power Meter 15
Measuring Absolute Power
2. If necessary, press λ to select the appropriate wavelength from the
shortlist (see the section on viewing wavelength list on page 25).
Note: The wavelength may take some time to change on the display due to a low
refresh rate. To set the refresh rate, see Setting Refresh Rate on page 34.
3. Press dBm/W to display the absolute power of the signal received at
the detector port. The dBm/W button is also used to toggle between
dBm and W measurement units.
An absolute power measurement in negative W units indicates that
electrical offsets were improperly nulled. If so, repeat the offset nulling
(see Nulling Electrical Offsets on page 11).
Note: When ------- is displayed, the power level detected is below the lower
limit of the selected measurement range. When +++++++ is
displayed, the power level detected is above the upper limit of the selected
measurement range. See Setting Measurement Range on page 22.
When !!!!!!! is displayed, the displayed data is in transition (range was
changed in power measurement mode, with Autorange selected).
When *******is displayed, a programmed acquisition is running with
a high sampling rate.
Acquiring Power Measurements
High-Speed Power Meter 15
Measuring Absolute Power
2. If necessary, press λ to select the appropriate wavelength from the
shortlist (see the section on viewing wavelength list on page 25).
Note: The wavelength may take some time to change on the display due to a low
refresh rate. To set the refresh rate, see Setting Refresh Rate on page 34.
3. Press dBm/W to display the absolute power of the signal received at
the detector port. The dBm/W button is also used to toggle between
dBm and W measurement units.
An absolute power measurement in negative W units indicates that
electrical offsets were improperly nulled. If so, repeat the offset nulling
(see Nulling Electrical Offsets on page 11).
Note: When ------- is displayed, the power level detected is below the lower
limit of the selected measurement range. When +++++++ is
displayed, the power level detected is above the upper limit of the selected
measurement range. See Setting Measurement Range on page 22.
When !!!!!!! is displayed, the displayed data is in transition (range was
changed in power measurement mode, with Autorange selected).
When *******is displayed, a programmed acquisition is running with
a high sampling rate.
Acquiring Power Measurements
16 PM-1600
Measuring Relative 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
insertion loss measurements.
Relative power is displayed in dB when the reference value is measured in
dBm. If this is the case, the value will either be positive or negative since
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
units. The relative power will then represent the deviation ratio from the
reference.
In the example on the previous page, the measured power is 30.112 dB
higher than the reference value of −32.218 dBm. The absolute power is
−2.106 dBm.
To display relative power,
1. If necessary, select the desired channel (PM-1620).
2. If necessary, press
λ to select the appropriate wavelength from the
shortlist (see the section on viewing wavelength list on page 25).
1
AUTO
λ
1310.25 nm
30.112
CF
-32.218 dBm
dB
SH
Relative power
Current wavelength
Reference value
REF
Relative power unit
Reference unit
Acquiring Power Measurements
16 PM-1600
Measuring Relative 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
insertion loss measurements.
Relative power is displayed in dB when the reference value is measured in
dBm. If this is the case, the value will either be positive or negative since
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
units. The relative power will then represent the deviation ratio from the
reference.
In the example on the previous page, the measured power is 30.112 dB
higher than the reference value of −32.218 dBm. The absolute power is
−2.106 dBm.
To display relative power,
1. If necessary, select the desired channel (PM-1620).
2. If necessary, press
λ to select the appropriate wavelength from the
shortlist (see the section on viewing wavelength list on page 25).
1
AUTO
λ
1310.25 nm
30.112
CF
-32.218 dBm
dB
SH
Relative power
Current wavelength
Reference value
REF
Relative power unit
Reference unit
Acquiring Power Measurements
High-Speed Power Meter 17
Measuring Relative Power
3. Press dB/W/W until the display switches to relative mode in dB (where
the value displayed is equal to the absolute power minus the
previously stored reference power) or in W/W (where the value
displayed is the deviation ratio from the reference). Pressing dB/W
/W
again switches between dB and W/W measurement units for the
relative power and reference value.
When you access relative mode, the PM-1600 displays the last reference
value entered at the current wavelength (to view the reference value, set
the appropriate channel to reference display mode).
However, to display meaningful relative power readings, it is important to
have an appropriate reference value, using appropriate adapters and test
jumpers, and connecting the optical circuit being referenced to a detector
port.
Note: If you set a reference while a correction factor (CF) is active, the reference
measurement will take the correction factor into account.
To set a reference value, two choices are available.
Entering the Current Power as the Reference Value
To enter the current power,
1. If necessary, select the desired channel (PM-1620).
2. If necessary, press
λ to select the appropriate wavelength.
3. Press dBm/W to select the desired measurement unit.
4. Press Ref to use the current power value as the new reference.
Note: Pressing Ref switches the display to relative mode.
Acquiring Power Measurements
High-Speed Power Meter 17
Measuring Relative Power
3. Press dB/W/W until the display switches to relative mode in dB (where
the value displayed is equal to the absolute power minus the
previously stored reference power) or in W/W (where the value
displayed is the deviation ratio from the reference). Pressing dB/W
/W
again switches between dB and W/W measurement units for the
relative power and reference value.
When you access relative mode, the PM-1600 displays the last reference
value entered at the current wavelength (to view the reference value, set
the appropriate channel to reference display mode).
However, to display meaningful relative power readings, it is important to
have an appropriate reference value, using appropriate adapters and test
jumpers, and connecting the optical circuit being referenced to a detector
port.
Note: If you set a reference while a correction factor (CF) is active, the reference
measurement will take the correction factor into account.
To set a reference value, two choices are available.
Entering the Current Power as the Reference Value
To enter the current power,
1. If necessary, select the desired channel (PM-1620).
2. If necessary, press
λ to select the appropriate wavelength.
3. Press dBm/W to select the desired measurement unit.
4. Press Ref to use the current power value as the new reference.
Note: Pressing Ref switches the display to relative mode.
Acquiring Power Measurements
18 PM-1600
Measuring Relative Power
Entering a Specific Reference Value
To enter a specific value,
1. If necessary, press
λ to select the appropriate wavelength.
2. Press dBm/W to select the desired measurement unit.
3. Press Setup to access the Setup menu.
4. Use the up/down arrow keys to select Channel 1 Setup or Channel 2
Setup, then press ENTER. The current channel settings are displayed.
5. Use the up/down arrow keys to select Reference.
5a. To clear the current reference, use the left/right arrow keys to
select Reset, then confirm by pressing ENTER.
System Setup
Wavelength List & Corr. Factor
Channel 1 Setup
Channel 2 Setup
Exit
Resolution
Averaging
Reference
002
−
68.975 dBm
3.0103 dB
(Active)
Reset
4
Exit Channel 1 Setup
Offset
100.000 dB
Reset
Acquiring Power Measurements
18 PM-1600
Measuring Relative Power
Entering a Specific Reference Value
To enter a specific value,
1. If necessary, press
λ to select the appropriate wavelength.
2. Press dBm/W to select the desired measurement unit.
3. Press Setup to access the Setup menu.
4. Use the up/down arrow keys to select Channel 1 Setup or Channel 2
Setup, then press ENTER. The current channel settings are displayed.
5. Use the up/down arrow keys to select Reference.
5a. To clear the current reference, use the left/right arrow keys to
select Reset, then confirm by pressing ENTER.
System Setup
Wavelength List & Corr. Factor
Channel 1 Setup
Channel 2 Setup
Exit
Resolution
Averaging
Reference
002
−
68.975 dBm
3.0103 dB
(Active)
Reset
4
Exit Channel 1 Setup
Offset
100.000 dB
Reset
Acquiring Power Measurements
High-Speed Power Meter 19
Measuring Corrected Power
5b. To modify the current reference, press ENTER to select the
reference edit box, then use the left/right arrow keys to select the
desired sign and digit, and the up/down arrow keys to increase or
decrease the flashing value. Confirm by pressing ENTER. You can
enter a reference value from −90.000 dBm to +90.000 dBm or
from +001.0000 pW to +999.9999 kW.
Note: You can toggle between dBm and W units while in the Channel Setup
menu by pressing dBm/W.
6. Exit the Channel Setup menu and then the Setup menu.
Measuring Corrected Power
A correction factor (CF) can be applied to any measurement that is
displayed in either dB, dBm, W, or W/W units.
When expressed in dB, the correction factor, which can be positive or
negative, is applied to the measured power. When expressed in W/W, the
correction factor is a deviation from the measured power. This feature
provides additional flexibility and can be useful when compensating for
known inaccuracies (power gains or losses) at specific wavelengths.
To use the corrected power display, see Setting a Correction Factor on
page 30. When a correction factor is active, i.e., different from 0.000 dB or
1.0000 W/W, the CF marker appears at the top of the display for the
matching channel.
Note: Special care must be taken when setting a correction factor as it emulates a
new calibration (the PM-1600's calibration is not affected and will be
restored by setting the CF back to a null value).
Acquiring Power Measurements
High-Speed Power Meter 19
Measuring Corrected Power
5b. To modify the current reference, press ENTER to select the
reference edit box, then use the left/right arrow keys to select the
desired sign and digit, and the up/down arrow keys to increase or
decrease the flashing value. Confirm by pressing ENTER. You can
enter a reference value from −90.000 dBm to +90.000 dBm or
from +001.0000 pW to +999.9999 kW.
Note: You can toggle between dBm and W units while in the Channel Setup
menu by pressing dBm/W.
6. Exit the Channel Setup menu and then the Setup menu.
Measuring Corrected Power
A correction factor (CF) can be applied to any measurement that is
displayed in either dB, dBm, W, or W/W units.
When expressed in dB, the correction factor, which can be positive or
negative, is applied to the measured power. When expressed in W/W, the
correction factor is a deviation from the measured power. This feature
provides additional flexibility and can be useful when compensating for
known inaccuracies (power gains or losses) at specific wavelengths.
To use the corrected power display, see Setting a Correction Factor on
page 30. When a correction factor is active, i.e., different from 0.000 dB or
1.0000 W/W, the CF marker appears at the top of the display for the
matching channel.
Note: Special care must be taken when setting a correction factor as it emulates a
new calibration (the PM-1600's calibration is not affected and will be
restored by setting the CF back to a null value).
Acquiring Power Measurements
20 PM-1600
Measuring Corrected Power
Setting an Offset Value
You can use the Offset function to take into account, in the power
displayed, of 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 on a specific channel.
To enter an offset value,
1. If necessary, press
λ to select the appropriate wavelength.
2. Press dBm/W to select the desired measurement unit.
3. Press Setup to access the Setup menu.
4. Use the up/down arrow keys to select Channel 1 Setup or Channel 2
Setup, then press ENTER. The current channel settings are displayed.
System Setup
Wavelength List & Corr. Factor
Channel 1 Setup
Channel 2 Setup
Exit
Acquiring Power Measurements
20 PM-1600
Measuring Corrected Power
Setting an Offset Value
You can use the Offset function to take into account, in the power
displayed, of 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 on a specific channel.
To enter an offset value,
1. If necessary, press
λ to select the appropriate wavelength.
2. Press dBm/W to select the desired measurement unit.
3. Press Setup to access the Setup menu.
4. Use the up/down arrow keys to select Channel 1 Setup or Channel 2
Setup, then press ENTER. The current channel settings are displayed.
System Setup
Wavelength List & Corr. Factor
Channel 1 Setup
Channel 2 Setup
Exit