Agilent 86060C-Series
Lightwave Switches
User’s Guide
© Copyright
Agilent Technologies 2000
All Rights Reserved. Reproduction, adaptation, or translation without prior written
permission is prohibited,
except as allowed under copyright laws.
Agilent Part No. 86060-90041
Printed in USA
March 2000
Agilent Technologies
Lightwave Division
1400 Fountaingrove Parkway
Santa Rosa, CA 95403-1799,
USA
(707) 577-1400
Notice.
The information contained in
this document is subject to
change without notice. Companies, names, and data used
in examples herein are fictitious unless otherwise noted.
Agilent Technologies makes
no warranty of any kind with
regard to this material, including but not limited to, the
implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a
particular purpose. Agilent
Technologies shall not be liable for errors contained herein
or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing,
performance, or use of this
material.
Restricted Rights Legend.
Use, duplication, or disclosure by the U.S. Government
is subject to restrictions as set
forth in subparagraph (c) (1)
(ii) of the Rights in Technical
Data and Computer Software
clause at DFARS 252.227-7013
for DOD agencies, and subparagraphs (c) (1) and (c) (2)
of the Commercial Computer
Software Restricted Rights
clause at FAR 52.227-19 for
other agencies.
Warranty.
This Agilent Technologies
instrument product is warranted against defects in
material and workmanship for
a period of one year from date
of shipment. During the warranty period, Agilent Technologies will, at its option, either
repair or replace products
which prove to be defective.
For warranty service or repair,
this product must be returned
to a service facility designated by Agilent Technologies. Buyer shall prepay
shipping charges to Agilent
Technologies and Agilent
Technologies shall pay shipping charges to return the
product to Buyer. However,
Buyer shall pay all shipping
charges, duties, and taxes for
products returned to Agilent
Technologies from another
country.
Agilent Technologies warrants that its software and
firmware designated by Agilent Technologies for use with
an instrument will execute its
programming instructions
when properly installed on
that instrument. Agilent Technologies does not warrant that
the operation of the instrument, or software, or firmware
will be uninterrupted or errorfree.
Limitation of Warranty.
The foregoing warranty shall
not apply to defects resulting
from improper or inadequate
maintenance by Buyer, Buyersupplied software or interfacing, unauthorized modification or misuse, operation
outside of the environmental
specifications for the product,
or improper site preparation
or maintenance.
No other warranty is
expressed or implied. Agilent
Technologies specifically disclaims the implied warranties
of merchantability and fitness
for a particular purpose.
Exclusive Remedies.
The remedies provided herein
are buyer's sole and exclusive
remedies. Agilent Technolo-
gies shall not be liable for any
direct, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages, whether based on
contract, tort, or any other
legal theory.
Safety Symbols.
CAUTION
The
caution
sign denotes a
hazard. It calls attention to a
procedure which, if not correctly performed or adhered
to, could result in damage to
or destruction of the product.
Do not proceed beyond a caution sign until the indicated
conditions are fully understood and met.
WAR NING
The
warning
sign denotes a
hazard. It calls attention to a
procedure which, if not correctly performed or adhered
to, could result in injury or
loss of life. Do not proceed
beyond a warning sign until
the indicated conditions are
fully understood and met.
The instruction manual symbol. The product is marked with this
warning symbol when
it is necessary for the
user to refer to the
instructions in the
manual.
The laser radiation
symbol. This warning
symbol is marked on
products which have a
laser output.
The AC symbol is used
to indicate the
required nature of the
line module input
power.
The ON symbols are
|
used to mark the positions of the instrument
power line switch.
The OFF symbols
❍
are used to mark the
positions of the instrument power line
switch.
The CE mark is a registered trademark of
the European Community.
The CSA mark is a registered trademark of
the Canadian Standards Association.
The C-Tick mark is a
registered trademark
of the Australian Spectrum Management
Agency.
This text denotes the
ISM1-A
instrument is an
Industrial Scientific
and Medical Group 1
Class A product.
Typographical Conventions.
The following conventions are
used in this book:
Key type
for keys or text
located on the keyboard or
instrument.
Softkey type
for key names that
are displayed on the instrument’s screen.
Display type
for words or
characters displayed on the
computer’s screen or instrument’s display.
User type
for words or charac-
ters that you type or enter.
Emphasis
type for words or
characters that emphasize
some point or that are used as
place holders for text that you
type.
ii
General Safety Considerations
General Safety Considerations
This product has been designed and tested in accordance with IEC Publication 61010-1, Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement,
Control and Laboratory Use, and has been supplied in a safe condition. The
instruction documentation contains information and warnings that must be
followed by the user to ensure safe operation and to maintain the product in a
safe condition.
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
If this instrument is not used as specified, the protection provided by
the equipment could be impaired. This instrument must be used in a
normal condition (in which all means for protection are intact) only.
To prevent electrical shock, disconnect the Agilent 86060C from
mains before cleaning. Use a dry cloth or one slightly dampened with
water to clean the external case parts. Do not attempt to clean
internally.
This is a Safety Class 1 product (provided with a protective earthing
ground incorporated in the power cord). The mains plug shall only be
inserted in a socket outlet provided with a protective earth contact.
Any interruption of the protective conductor inside or outside of the
product is likely to make the product dangerous. Intentional
interruption is prohibited.
No operator serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified
personnel. To prevent electrical shock, do not remove covers.
On Option 002 dual input instruments, any light on an unselected “A”
channel will likely be output on one of the unselected “B” channels.
On Option 002 dual input instruments, any light on an unselected “B”
channel will likely be output on an unselected “A” channel.
To avoid exposure to light energy, always cover all unused channels.
iii
General Safety Considerations
WARNING
CAUTION
CAUTION
CAUTION
For continued protection against fire hazard, replace line fuse only
with same type and ratings, (type T 0.315A/250V for 100/120V
operation and 0.16A/250V for 220/240V operation). The use of other
fuses or materials is prohibited. Verify that the value of the linevoltage fuse is correct.
• For 100/120V operation, use an IEC 127 5×20 mm, 0.315 A, 250 V, Agilent
part number 2110-0449.
• For 220/240V operation, use an IEC 127 5×20 mm, 0.16 A, 250 V, Agilent
Technologies part number 2110-0448.
Before switching on this instrument, make sure that the line voltage selector
switch is set to the line voltage of the power supply and the correct fuse is
installed. Assure the supply voltage is in the specified range.
This product is designed for use in Installation Category II and Pollution
Degree 2 per IEC 1010 and 664 respectively.
VENTILATION REQUIREMENTS: When installing the product in a cabinet, the
convection into and out of the product must not be restricted. The ambient
temperature (outside the cabinet) must be less than the maximum operating
temperature of the product by 4°C for every 100 watts dissipated in the
cabinet. If the total power dissipated in the cabinet is greater than 800 watts,
then forced convection must be used.
CAUTION
CAUTION
CAUTION
Always use the three-prong ac power cord supplied with this instrument.
Failure to ensure adequate earth grounding by not using this cord may cause
instrument damage.
Do not
connect ac power until you have verified the line voltage is correct.
Damage to the equipment could result.
This instrument has autoranging line voltage input. Be sure the supply voltage
is within the specified range.
iv
Contents
1 General Information
Channels, Options, and Accessories 1-3
Specifications and Regulatory Information 1-7
Cleaning Connections for Accurate Measurements 1-12
Returning the Instrument for Service 1-22
Agilent Technologies Service Offices 1-25
2 Installing
Step 1. Inspect the shipment 2-3
Step 2. Check the fuse 2-4
Step 3. Connect the line-power cable 2-5
Power Cords 2-6
Step 4. Turn on the lightwave switch 2-7
Step 5. Performing an operational check 2-8
If The Operational Check Fails 2-10
3Using the Switch
Front-Panel Features 3-3
Rear-Panel Features 3-5
Changing Switch Position 3-6
Adjusting Display Contrast 3-7
Saving Switch States 3-7
4 Programming
General Information 4-3
Programming over GPIB 4-6
Programming over RS-232 4-8
Common Commands 4-11
Standard SCPI Commands 4-22
Instrument Specific Commands 4-26
Error Messages 4-30
Programming Examples 4-31
5Servicing
Spare Channel Replacement Procedure 5-4
Electrostatic Discharge Information 5-7
Contents-1
1
Channels, Options, and Accessories 1-3
Specifications and Regulatory Information 1-7
Cleaning Connections for Accurate Measurements 1-12
Returning the Instrument for Service 1-22
Agilent Technologies Service Offices 1-25
General Information
General Information
General Information
General Information
The Agilent 86060C-series lightwave switches cover a broad range of switching capacity and provide for accurate and repeatable measurements. Configuring the switch is easy because the signal routing is shown graphically on the
display. You can easily integrate the switch into an automated test system
using SCPI-compatible commands via GPIB or RS-232 interfaces. The
Agilent 86060C-series lightwave switches are temperature stabilized.
• The Agilent 86060C is a compact switch with 4 to 8 output channels and 1 or 2
inputs.
• The HP 86061C is a mid-size switch in a half-width chassis, with 1 or 2 input
channels. It can accommodate from 4 to 12 output channels on the front panel,
and up to 18 outputs on the rear panel.
WARNING
CAUTION
CAUTION
• The HP 86062C is a full-width switch with 20 to 100 output channels.
On Option 002 dual input instruments, any light on an
unselected “A” channel will likely be output on one of the
unselected “B” channels.
On Option 002 dual input instruments, any light on an
unselected “B” channel will likely be output on an unselected
“A” channel.
To avoid exposure to light energy, always cover all unused channels.
Improper connector care, cleaning, or use of mismatched cable connectors can
invalidate the published specifications and damage connectors. Clean all cables
before applying to any connector. Repair of damaged connectors due to
improper use is not covered under warranty. Refer to “Cleaning Connections
for Accurate Measurements” on page 1-12 for proper cleaning procedures.
OPTION 3XX INSTRUMENTS: To avoid damage, handle the pigtail fiber with
care. Use only an appropriate fiber cleaver tool for cutting the fiber. Do not pull
the bare fiber out of its jacket, crush it, kink it, or bend it past its minimum bend
radius.
1-2
General Information
Channels, Options, and Accessories
Channels, Options, and Accessories
Fiber-optic cables
The lightwave switch use one of three types of fiber-optic cables. To determine which fiber-optic cable type your lightwave switch uses, refer to the rearpanel serial number label. This label indicates the installed options which are
defined in the following list:
Option 109:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1280–1650 nm, 9/125 µm single-mode fiber
Option 163:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 750–1350 nm, 62.5/125 µm multimode fiber
Option H51: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .750–1350 nm, 50/125 µm multimode fiber
Switching is bi-directional
The lightwave switches are based on a moving fiber technology where an input
fiber is aligned with any one of “N” fixed output fibers. The input fiber is positioned by means of a precision stepper motor. Lightwave switches with two
input fibers allow the user to position either input A1 or A2 to a specific output channel. The non-selected input
put channel.
Lightwave switches with three or more “B” channels have an additional position called channel O or OFF.
may
may not
or
align with another out-
Special ordered instruments
Normal lightwave switches have only one layer installed. (A switch layer is a
switch matrix of “A” ports and “B” ports.) However, special ordered instruments may have multiple switch layers installed. If the rear panel shows more
than one set of “A” ports and “B” ports, the instrument has multiple switch
layers. Other switch configurations, such as non-blocking matrices are available as special orders.
Serial numbers
Agilent Technologies makes frequent improvements to its products to
enhance their performance, usability, or reliability, and to control costs. Agilent Technologies service personnel have access to complete records of design
changes to each type of equipment, based on the equipment’s serial number.
1-3
General Information
Channels, Options, and Accessories
Whenever you contact Agilent Technologies about your lightwave switch, have
the complete serial number available to ensure obtaining the most complete
and accurate information possible.
A serial-number label is attached to the rear of the lightwave switch. It contains the serial number and the options installed in the lightwave switch.
Whenever you specify the serial number or refer to it in obtaining information
about your lightwave switch, be sure to use the complete number, including
the full prefix and suffix.
Table 1-1. Output Channels
Agilent 86060C Compact
Lightwave Switch
Number of Output Channels
04
06
08
HP 86061C Mid-Size
Lightwave Switch
04
08
12
16
HP 86062C Full-Size
Lightwave Switch
20
24
28
32
40
48
56
64
72
80
00 (100 output channels)
1-4
General Information
Channels, Options, and Accessories
Table 1-2. Options
Option Description
Number of Input Channels (select one):
Option 001 Single input channel
Option 002 Two input channels
Wavelength and Fiber Type (select one):
Option 109
Option 163
Option H51
Port Type (select one):
Option 050 Connectors on front panel. (Only available on an Agilent 86060C or
Option 051 Connectors on rear panel. (For connectorized outputs only.)
Option 052 3 meter fiber out of the rear panel. (For connectorized outputs, the
Output Channels (select one):
(1 of 2)
1280–1650 nm, 9/125 µm single-mode fiber
750–1350 nm, 62.5/125
750–1350 nm, 50/125
HP 86061C, with Option 204.)
connector is at the end of the 3 meter fiber.)
m multimode fiber
µ
m multimode fiber (special order)
µ
Option 2XX Where XX is the number of connectorized output channels.
(Note: Option 200 is 100 connectorized output channels.)
Option 3XX Where XX is the number of non-connectorized output channels.
(Note: Option 300 is 100 non-connectorized output channels.)
Connector Type (for connectorized ports or fibers only):
Option 012 FC/PC connectors
Option 014 ST connectors
Option 017 SC connectors
FC/APC or SC/APC connectors (special order)
1-5
General Information
Channels, Options, and Accessories
Table 1-2. Options
Option Description
Optional Accessories
Option ABJ User’s manual in Japanese
Option UK6 Commercial calibration certificate with test data
Option 1CM Rack-mount flange kit
Option 1CN Front handle kit
Option 1CP Rack mount flange kit with handles
(2 of 2)
Table 1-3. Accessories
Agilent Part
Number
5062-3957 Rack mount adapter kit for a single half-width instrument.
5062-3977 Rack mount adapter kit for two adjacent half-width instruments.
5062-4079 Lock link kit for the Agilent 5062-3977.
Description
5952-4079 Fiber Optics Handbook, an introduction to, and a reference for, fiber-optic
measurements.
1-6
General Information
Specifications and Regulatory Information
Specifications and Regulatory Information
This section lists specifications and regulatory information of the
Agilent 86060C-series lightwave switches. Specifications apply over the temperature range +0°C to +55°C (unless otherwise noted). All specifications
apply after the instrument’s temperature has been stabilized after 120 minutes
of continuous operation.
Table 1-4 on page 1-8 lists specification,
The distinction between these terms is described as follows:
characteristics
, and nominal values.
Specifications
Characteristics Characteristics
Nominal values
Calibration cycle
CAUTION
Specifications describe warranted performance.
ranted, performance parameters.
Nominal value indicates the expected, but not warranted, value of the parameter.
Agilent Technologies warrants instrument specifications over the recommended calibration interval. To maintain specifications, periodic recalibrations
are necessary. We recommend that the Agilent 86060C-series switches be calibrated at an Agilent Technologies service facility every 24 months.
Improper connector care, cleaning, or use of mismatched cable connectors can
invalidate the published specifications and damage connectors. Clean all cables
before applying to any connector. Repair of damaged connectors due to
improper use is not covered under warranty. Refer to “Cleaning Connections
for Accurate Measurements” on page 1-12 for proper cleaning procedures.
provide useful information by giving functional, but nonwar-
Characteristics are printed in italics.
1-7
General Information
Specifications and Regulatory Information
Table 1-4. Optical Interface Specifications and Characteristics
Insertion Loss
Single-mode switches
Multi-mode switches
Insertion Loss Stability
Repeatability
Sequential switching
Random switching
Optical Return Loss
Single-mode
Multimode
Polarization Dependent Loss
Isolation
Typical Switching Life
a
1.0 dB
(0.7 dB)
0.8 dB
(0.6 dB)
b
c
d
e
±0.03 dB
±0.008 dB
±0.025 dB
58 dB
(62 dB)
20 dB
(25 dB)
0.05 dB
(0.02 dB)
80 dB
–
(–100 dB)
(±0.025)
(±0.005)
(±0.01)
10 million cycles, minimum
Switching Time
Between adjacent channels
Each additional channel
a. Insertion loss does not include connectors. Include an additional 0.5 dB (
connector.
b. Drift of any channel relative to one assigned reference channel at ±3°C deviation of ambient temperature
over 7 day period.
c. Repeatability measured after four (4) hours warm-up and with a one (1) second pause between
movements.
d. Excludes external pigtail backscatter and connector reflections.
e. Polarization dependent loss only applies to single-mode switches and is measured at 1550 nm.
330 msec
50 msec
0.25 dB characteristic
) for each
1-8
Table 1-5. Switching Time Sample (msec)
General Information
Specifications and Regulatory Information
Switch Sizea
Switch
1×4 Agilent 86060C,
Starting Channel to
Adjacent Channels
Plus Additional
Time/Channel
Maximum
Switching Time
290 40 370
b
HP 86061C
1×8 Agilent 86060C,
290 40 530
HP 86061C
1×56 HP 86062C 258 7.5 663
1×100 HP 86062C 258 7.5 993
a. Note that the switch mechanism used for channel count greater than 48 is different, hence switching time.
b. Switching time = (switching between starting and adjacent channel) + (additional time/channel) × remaining channel increments to reach
last channel.
Table 1-6. General Specifications (1 of 2)
OPTICAL CONNECTORS
Option 012 FC/PC connectors
Option 014 ST connectors
Option 017 SC connectors
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
Temperature Range
Operating
Storage
Humidity
Operating
Storage
Altitude Altitude up to 15,000 feet (4,572 meters).
EMI Compatibility Conducted and radiated emissions meet the requirements of CISPR Publication 11 and
Power Requirements 100/115/230/240 V (range 90 to 254 Vac),
Power Consumption Up to 80 VA
Installation Category Category II per I.E.C. 1010
Pollution Degree Degree 2 per I.E.C. 664
Usage For indoor use.
Enclosure Protection IP 2 0, according to IEC 529
a,b,c
+0°C to +55°C
–40°C to +70°C
Maximum relative humidity 95% for temperatures up to 40°C (non-condensing)
Maximum relative humidity less than 90% at 65
C
°
EN 55011 Group 1, Class A.
50/60 Hz (range 47 to 63 Hz)
1-9
General Information
Specifications and Regulatory Information
Table 1-6. General Specifications (2 of 2)
Weight
(dependent on # of channels)
Agilent 86060C
HP 86061C
HP 86062C
Dimensions (H × W × D)
Agilent 86060C
HP 86061C
HP 86062C
a. All Agilent 86060C-series lightwave switches must specify one of the following options, except when specifying Option 3xx.
b. Unlike most Agilent Technologies lightwave instruments, connector types are not interchangeable.
c. Other connector types are available upon request.
d. Feet add 12.5 mm to the height of the instrument.
d
3.76 kg to 4.1 kg (8.4 lb to 9.2 lb)
4.0 kg to 6.18 kg (8.8 lb to 13.6 lb)
7.72 kg to 13.74 kg (17.25 lb to 30.7 lb)
132.6 × 213 × 345.4 mm (5.25 × 8.39 × 14 in)
177 × 213 × 345.4 mm (7 × 8.39 × 14 in)
177 × 425 × 345.4 mm (7 × 16.75 × 14 in)
Regulatory Information
This instrument is in conformance with the German Regulation on Noise Declaration for Machines (Laermangabe nach der Maschinenlaermrerordnung
–3.GSGV Deutschland).
Notice for Germany: Noise Declaration
Acoustic Noise Emission Geraeuschemission
LpA < 70 dB LpA < 70 dB
Operator position am Arbeitsplatz
Normal position normaler Betrieb
per ISO 7779 nach DIN 45635 t.19
1-10
General Information
Specifications and Regulatory Information
1-11
General Information
Cleaning Connections for Accurate Measurements
Cleaning Connections for Accurate
Measurements
Today, advances in measurement capabilities make connectors and connection techniques more important than ever. Damage to the connectors on calibration and verification devices, test ports, cables, and other devices can
degrade measurement accuracy and damage instruments. Replacing a damaged connector can cost thousands of dollars, not to mention lost time! This
expense can be avoided by observing the simple precautions presented in this
book. This book also contains a brief list of tips for caring for electrical connectors.
Choosing the Right Connector
A critical but often overlooked factor in making a good lightwave measurement is the selection of the fiber-optic connector. The differences in connector types are mainly in the mechanical assembly that holds the ferrule in
position against another identical ferrule. Connectors also vary in the polish,
curve, and concentricity of the core within the cladding. Mating one style of
cable to another requires an adapter. Agilent Technologies offers adapters for
most instruments to allow testing with many different cables. Figure 1-1 on
page 1-13 shows the basic components of a typical connectors.
The system tolerance for reflection and insertion loss must be known when
selecting a connector from the wide variety of currently available connectors.
Some items to consider when selecting a connector are:
• How much insertion loss can be allowed?
• Will the connector need to make multiple connections? Some connectors are
better than others, and some are very poor for making repeated connections.
• What is the reflection tolerance? Can the system take reflection degradation?
• Is an instrument-grade connector with a precision core alignment required?
• Is repeatability tolerance for reflection and loss important? Do your specifica-
1-12
General Information
Cleaning Connections for Accurate Measurements
tions take repeatability uncertainty into account?
• Will a connector degrade the return loss too much, or will a fusion splice be required? For example, many DFB lasers cannot operate with reflections from
connectors. Often as much as 90 dB isolation is needed.
Figure 1-1. Basic components of a connector.
Over the last few years, the FC/PC style connector has emerged as the most
popular connector for fiber-optic applications. While not the highest performing connector, it represents a good compromise between performance, reliability, and cost. If properly maintained and cleaned, this connector can
withstand many repeated connections.
However, many instrument specifications require tighter tolerances than most
connectors, including the FC/PC style, can deliver. These instruments cannot
tolerate connectors with the large non-concentricities of the fiber common
with ceramic style ferrules. When tighter alignment is required, Agilent
Technologies instruments typically use a connector such as the Diamond
HMS-10, which has concentric tolerances within a few tenths of a micron. Agilent Technologies then uses a special universal adapter, which allows other
cable types to mate with this precision connector. See Figure 1-2.
1-13
General Information
Cleaning Connections for Accurate Measurements
Figure 1-2. Universal adapters to Diamond HMS-10.
The HMS-10 encases the fiber within a soft nickel silver (Cu/Ni/Zn) center
which is surrounded by a tough tungsten carbide casing, as shown in
Figure 1-3.
Figure 1-3. Cross-section of the Diamond HMS-10 connector.
The nickel silver allows an active centering process that permits the glass fiber
to be moved to the desired position. This process first stakes the soft nickel
silver to fix the fiber in a near-center location, then uses a post-active staking
to shift the fiber into the desired position within 0.2µm. This process, plus the
keyed axis, allows very precise core-to-core alignments. This connector is
found on most Agilent Technologies lightwave instruments.
1-14
General Information
Cleaning Connections for Accurate Measurements
The soft core, while allowing precise centering, is also the chief liability of the
connector. The soft material is easily damaged. Care must be taken to minimize excessive scratching and wear. While minor wear is not a problem if the
glass face is not affected, scratches or grit can cause the glass fiber to move
out of alignment. Also, if unkeyed connectors are used, the nickel silver can be
pushed onto the glass surface. Scratches, fiber movement, or glass contamination will cause loss of signal and increased reflections, resulting in poor return
loss.
Inspecting Connectors
Because fiber-optic connectors are susceptible to damage that is not immediately obvious to the naked eye, poor measurements result without the user
being aware. Microscopic examination and return loss measurements are the
best way to ensure good measurements. Good cleaning practices can help
ensure that optimum connector performance is maintained. With glass-toglass interfaces, any degradation of a ferrule or the end of the fiber, any stray
particles, or finger oil can have a significant effect on connector performance.
Where many repeat connections are required, use of a connector saver or
patch cable is recommended.
Figure 1-4 shows the end of a clean fiber-optic cable. The dark circle in the
center of the micrograph is the fiber’s 125 µm core and cladding which carries
the light. The surrounding area is the soft nickel-silver ferrule. Figure 1-5
shows a dirty fiber end from neglect or perhaps improper cleaning. Material is
smeared and ground into the end of the fiber causing light scattering and poor
reflection. Not only is the precision polish lost, but this action can grind off the
glass face and destroy the connector.
Figure 1-6 shows physical damage to the glass fiber end caused by either
repeated connections made without removing loose particles or using
improper cleaning tools. When severe, the damage of one connector end can
be transferred to another good connector endface that comes in contact with
the damaged one. Periodic checks of fiber ends, and replacing connecting
cables after many connections is a wise practice.
The cure for these problems is disciplined connector care as described in the
following list and in “Cleaning Connectors” on page 1-19.
1-15
General Information
Cleaning Connections for Accurate Measurements
Use the following guidelines to achieve the best possible performance when
making measurements on a fiber-optic system:
• Never use metal or sharp objects to clean a connector and never scrape the
connector.
• Avoid matching gel and oils.
Figure 1-4. Clean, problem-free fiber end and ferrule.
Figure 1-5. Dirty fiber end and ferrule from poor cleaning.
1-16
General Information
Cleaning Connections for Accurate Measurements
Figure 1-6. Damage from improper cleaning.
While these often work well on first insertion, they are great dirt magnets. The
oil or gel grabs and holds grit that is then ground into the end of the fiber.
Also, some early gels were designed for use with the FC, non-contacting connectors, using small glass spheres. When used with contacting connectors,
these glass balls can scratch and pit the fiber. If an index matching gel or oil
must be used, apply it to a freshly cleaned connector, make the measurement,
and then immediately clean it off. Never use a gel for longer-term connections
and never use it to improve a damaged connector. The gel can mask the extent
of damage and continued use of a damaged fiber can transfer damage to the
instrument.
• When inserting a fiber-optic cable into a connector, gently insert it in as
straight a line as possible. Tipping and inserting at an angle can scrape material
off the inside of the connector or even break the inside sleeve of connectors
made with ceramic material.
• When inserting a fiber-optic connector into a connector, make sure that the fiber end does not touch the outside of the mating connector or adapter.
• Avoid over tightening connections.
Unlike common electrical connections, tighter is
not
better. The purpose of
the connector is to bring two fiber ends together. Once they touch, tightening
only causes a greater force to be applied to the delicate fibers. With connectors that have a convex fiber end, the end can be pushed off-axis resulting in
misalignment and excessive return loss. Many measurements are actually
improved by backing off the connector pressure. Also, if a piece of grit does
happen to get by the cleaning procedure, the tighter connection is more likely
to damage the glass. Tighten the connectors just until the two fibers touch.
1-17
General Information
Cleaning Connections for Accurate Measurements
• Keep connectors covered when not in use.
• Use fusion splices on the more permanent critical nodes. Choose the best con-
nector possible. Replace connecting cables regularly. Frequently measure the
return loss of the connector to check for degradation, and clean every connector, every time.
All connectors should be treated like the high-quality lens of a good camera.
The weak link in instrument and system reliability is often the inappropriate
use and care of the connector. Because current connectors are so easy to use,
there tends to be reduced vigilance in connector care and cleaning. It takes
only one missed cleaning for a piece of grit to permanently damage the glass
and ruin the connector.
Measuring insertion loss and return loss
Consistent measurements with your lightwave equipment are a good indication that you have good connections. Since return loss and insertion loss are
key factors in determining optical connector performance they can be used to
determine connector degradation. A smooth, polished fiber end should produce a good return-loss measurement. The quality of the polish establishes
the difference between the “PC” (physical contact) and the “Super PC” connectors. Most connectors today are physical contact which make glass-to-glass
connections, therefore it is critical that the area around the glass core be clean
and free of scratches. Although the major area of a connector, excluding the
glass, may show scratches and wear, if the glass has maintained its polished
smoothness, the connector can still provide a good low level return loss connection.
If you test your cables and accessories for insertion loss and return loss upon
receipt, and retain the measured data for comparison, you will be able to tell in
the future if any degradation has occurred. Typical values are less than 0.5 dB
of loss, and sometimes as little as 0.1 dB of loss with high performance connectors. Return loss is a measure of reflection: the less reflection the better
(the larger the return loss, the smaller the reflection). The best physically
contacting connectors have return losses better than 50 dB, although 30 to
40 dB is more common.
1-18
General Information
Cleaning Connections for Accurate Measurements
Visual inspection of fiber ends
Visual inspection of fiber ends can be helpful. Contamination or imperfections
on the cable end face can be detected as well as cracks or chips in the fiber
itself. Use a microscope (100X to 200X magnification) to inspect the entire
end face for contamination, raised metal, or dents in the metal as well as any
other imperfections. Inspect the fiber for cracks and chips. Visible imperfections not touching the fiber core may not affect performance (unless the
imperfections keep the fibers from contacting).
WARNING
CAUTION
Always remove both ends of fiber-optic cables from any instrument,
system, or device before visually inspecting the fiber ends. Disable all
optical sources before disconnecting fiber-optic cables. Failure to do
so may result in permanent injury to your eyes.
Cleaning Connectors
The procedures in this section provide the proper steps for cleaning fiberoptic cables and Agilent Technologies universal adapters. The initial cleaning,
using the alcohol as a solvent, gently removes any grit and oil. If a caked-on
layer of material is still present, (this can happen if the beryllium-copper sides
of the ferrule retainer get scraped and deposited on the end of the fiber during
insertion of the cable), a second cleaning should be performed. It is not
uncommon for a cable or connector to require more than one cleaning.
Agilent Technologies strongly recommends that index matching compounds
not
be applied to their instruments and accessories. Some compounds, such as
gels, may be difficult to remove and can contain damaging particulates. If you
think the use of such compounds is necessary, refer to the compound
manufacturer for information on application and cleaning procedures.
Table 1-7. Cleaning Accessories
Item Agilent Part Number
Any commercially available denatured alcohol —
Cotton swabs 8520-0023
Small foam swabs 9300-1223
Compressed dust remover (non-residue) 8500-5262
1-19
General Information
Cleaning Connections for Accurate Measurements
Table 1-8. Dust Caps Provided with Lightwave Instruments
Item Agilent Part Number
Laser shutter cap 08145-64521
FC/PC dust cap 08154-44102
Biconic dust cap 08154-44105
DIN dust cap 5040-9364
HMS10/dust cap 5040-9361
ST dust cap 5040-9366
To clean a non-lensed connector
CAUTION
Do not use any type of foam swab to clean optical fiber ends. Foam swabs can
leave filmy deposits on fiber ends that can degrade performance.
1
Apply pure isopropyl alcohol to a clean lint-free cotton swab or lens paper.
Cotton swabs can be used as long as no cotton fibers remain on the fiber end
after cleaning.
2
Clean the ferrules and other parts of the connector while avoiding the end of
the fiber.
3
Apply isopropyl alcohol to a new clean lint-free cotton swab or lens paper.
4
Clean the fiber end with the swab or lens paper.
not
Do
scrub during this initial cleaning because grit can be caught in the
swab and become a gouging element.
5
Immediately dry the fiber end with a clean, dry, lint-free cotton swab or lens
paper.
6
Blow across the connector end face from a distance of 6 to 8 inches using
filtered, dry, compressed air. Aim the compressed air at a shallow angle to the
fiber end face.
Nitrogen gas or compressed dust remover can also be used.
1-20
General Information
Cleaning Connections for Accurate Measurements
CAUTION
Do not shake, tip, or invert compressed air canisters, because this releases
particles in the can into the air. Refer to instructions provided on the
compressed air canister.
7
As soon as the connector is dry, connect or cover it for later use.
If the performance, after the initial cleaning, seems poor try cleaning the connector again. Often a second cleaning will restore proper performance. The
second cleaning should be more arduous with a scrubbing action.
To clean an adapter
The fiber-optic input and output connectors on many Agilent Technologies
instruments employ a universal adapter such as those shown in the following
picture. These adapters allow you to connect the instrument to different types
of fiber-optic cables.
Figure 1-7. Universal adapters.
1
Apply isopropyl alcohol to a clean foam swab.
Cotton swabs can be used as long as no cotton fibers remain after cleaning. The
foam swabs listed in this section’s introduction are small enough to fit into
adapters.
Although foam swabs can leave filmy deposits, these deposits are very thin, and
the risk of other contamination buildup on the inside of adapters greatly outweighs the risk of contamination by foam swabs.
2
Clean the adapter with the foam swab.
3
Dry the inside of the adapter with a clean, dry, foam swab.
4
Blow through the adapter using filtered, dry, compressed air.
Nitrogen gas or compressed dust remover can also be used. Do not shake, tip,
or invert compressed air canisters, because this releases particles in the can
into the air. Refer to instructions provided on the compressed air canister.
1-21
General Information
Returning the Instrument for Service
Returning the Instrument for Service
The instructions in this section show you how to properly return the instrument for repair or calibration. Always call the Agilent Technologies Instrument
Support Center first to initiate service
service office. This ensures that the repair (or calibration) can be properly
tracked and that your instrument will be returned to you as quickly as possible. Call this number regardless of where you are located. Refer to “Agilent
Technologies Service Offices” on page 1-25 for a list of service offices.
Agilent Technologies Instrument Support Center . . . . . . . . . . . (800) 403-0801
If the instrument is still under warranty or is covered by an Agilent Technologies maintenance contract, it will be repaired under the terms of the warranty
or contract (the warranty is at the front of this manual). If the instrument is
no longer under warranty or is not covered by an Agilent Technologies maintenance plan, Agilent Technologies will notify you of the cost of the repair after
examining the unit.
When an instrument is returned to a Agilent Technologies service office for
servicing, it must be adequately packaged and have a complete description of
the failure symptoms attached. When describing the failure, please be as specific as possible about the nature of the problem. Include copies of additional
failure information (such as the instrument failure settings, data related to
instrument failure, and error messages) along with the instrument being
returned.
before
returning your instrument to a
Preparing the instrument for shipping
1
Write a complete description of the failure and attach it to the instrument.
Include any specific performance details related to the problem. The following
1-22
General Information
Returning the Instrument for Service
information should be returned with the instrument.
• Type of service required.
• Date instrument was returned for repair.
• Description of the problem:
• Whether problem is constant or intermittent.
• Whether instrument is temperature-sensitive.
• Whether instrument is vibration-sensitive.
• Instrument settings required to reproduce the problem.
• Performance data.
• Company name and return address.
• Name and phone number of technical contact person.
• Model number of returned instrument.
• Full serial number of returned instrument.
• List of any accessories returned with instrument.
2
Cover all front or rear-panel connectors that were originally covered when you
first received the instrument.
CAUTION
CAUTION
Cover electrical connectors to protect sensitive components from electrostatic
damage. Cover optical connectors to protect them from damage due to physical
contact or dust.
Instrument damage can result from using packaging materials other than the
original materials. Never use styrene pellets as packaging material. They do not
adequately cushion the instrument or prevent it from shifting in the carton.
They may also cause instrument damage by generating static electricity.
3
Pack the instrument in the original shipping containers. Original materials are
available through any Agilent Technologies office. Or, use the following
guidelines:
• Wrap the instrument in antistatic plastic to reduce the possibility of damage
caused by electrostatic discharge.
• For instruments weighing less than 54 kg (120 lb), use a double-walled, cor-
rugated cardboard carton of 159 kg (350 lb) test strength.
• The carton must be large enough to allow approximately 7 cm (3 inches) on
all sides of the instrument for packing material, and strong enough to accommodate the weight of the instrument.
• Surround the equipment with approximately 7 cm (3 inches) of packing ma-
terial, to protect the instrument and prevent it from moving in the carton. If
packing foam is not available, the best alternative is S.D-240 Air Cap™ from
1-23
General Information
Returning the Instrument for Service
Sealed Air Corporation (Commerce, California 90001). Air Cap looks like a
plastic sheet filled with air bubbles. Use the pink (antistatic) Air Cap™ to
reduce static electricity. Wrapping the instrument several times in this material will protect the instrument and prevent it from moving in the carton.
4
Seal the carton with strong nylon adhesive tape.
5
Mark the carton “FRAGILE, HANDLE WITH CARE”.
6
Retain copies of all shipping papers.
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