Coherent Solutions VOABlade User manual

Modular Variable Optical Attenuator | VOABlade
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Copyright © 2017 Coherent Solutions Ltd. 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 Coherent
Solutions Ltd. (Coherent Solutions).
Information provided by Coherent Solutions is believed to be accurate and reliable.
However, no responsibility is assumed by Coherent Solutions 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 Coherent Solutions.
The information contained in this publication is subject to change without notice.
Trademarks
Coherent Solutions’trademarks have been identified as such. However, the presence or absence of such
identification does not affect the legal status of any trademark.
Units of Measurement
Units of measurement in this publication conform to SI standards and practices.
Version Number: V1.4

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Contents
1 Conventions.............................................................................................................. 1
2 Safety Information.................................................................................................... 2
3 Introducing the VOABlade - Modular Variable Optical Attenuator ............................ 3
4 VOABlade Features ................................................................................................... 5
5 MTP1000 Features .................................................................................................. 14
6 Connecting Optical Output........................................................................................ 6
6.1 Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers .............................................................................................6
7 Installing a VOABlade Expansion Module .................................................................. 7
8 Removing a VOABlade Expansion Module............................................................... 11
9 Hardware Installation ............................................................................................. 15
9.1 Connections for Remote Operation .................................................................................................15
9.2 Connecting the Ethernet (recommended) .......................................................................................15
9.3 Connecting the USB (optional).........................................................................................................15
9.4 Rack Mounting the MTP1000 (optional) ..........................................................................................17
10 Operating the MTP1000 .......................................................................................... 18
10.1 Output Enable/Disable ....................................................................................................................18
10.2 Powering On/Off the MTP1000 .......................................................................................................18
10.3 Remote Operation of the MTP1000 .................................................................................................18
11 Installing the Software............................................................................................ 19
11.1 Client System Minimum Requirements............................................................................................19
11.2 Test Instrument Manager Software Installation ...............................................................................19
12 Test Instrument Manager Software......................................................................... 20
12.1 Test Instrument Manager Interface .................................................................................................20
12.2 Main Display....................................................................................................................................21
12.3 VOA Selection Control .....................................................................................................................21
12.4 VOA Parameter Control ...................................................................................................................21
12.4.1 General ...................................................................................................................................22
12.4.2 Offset Modes ..........................................................................................................................22
12.4.3 Dark Current Nulling ...............................................................................................................24
12.5 Other Menu Buttons ........................................................................................... ..........................25
13 Programming Guide ................................................................................................ 28
13.1 Programming Conventions ..............................................................................................................28
13.2 Common Command Summary .........................................................................................................29
13.3 Common Command Descriptions ....................................................................................................29

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13.4 Specific Command Summary ...........................................................................................................30
13.5 Specific Command Descriptions.......................................................................................................31
13.5.1 Slot Commands .......................................................................................................................31
13.5.2 Configuration Commands........................................................................................................31
13.6 VISA Programming Example: MATLAB .............................................................................................35
13.7 MATLAB Test and Measurement Tool (tmtool).............................................................................35
13.8 MATLAB Example Code: Query the MTP1000 ..................................................................................37
14 USB Connection Web Interface ............................................................................... 38
14.1 Network Configuration (Ethernet) ...................................................................................................38
14.2 Download Log File ...........................................................................................................................39
15 Maintenance........................................................................................................... 40
16 Technical Support ................................................................................................... 42
16.1 Contacting the Technical Support Group .........................................................................................42
16.2 Transportation.................................................................................................................................42
17 Warranty ................................................................................................................ 43
17.1 General Information ........................................................................................................................43
17.2 Liability............................................................................................................................................43
17.3 Exclusions........................................................................................................................................43
17.4 Certification.....................................................................................................................................44
17.5 Service and Repairs..........................................................................................................................44

Modular Variable Optical Attenuator | VOABlade
Coherent Solutions | VOABlade (V1.4)
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1 Conventions
Before using the instrument described in this manual, you should understand the following conventions:
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in
death or serious injury. Do not proceed unless you understand and meet the
required conditions.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in
minor or moderate injury. Do not proceed unless you understand and meet the
required conditions.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in
component damage. Do not proceed unless you understand and meet the required
conditions.
IMPORTANT
Refers to information about this product you should not overlook.

Modular Variable Optical Attenuator | VOABlade
Coherent Solutions | VOABlade (V1.4)
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2 Safety Information
WARNING
Do not install or terminate fibers while a light source is active. Care
must be taken to ensure that the instrument has been turned OFF
before inspecting the end face(s) of the instrument, or any optical
patch cords connected to this instrument. Never look directly into a live
fiber and ensure that your eyes are protected at all times.
The use of controls, adjustments and procedures other than those
specified herein may result in exposure to hazardous situations or
impair the protection provided by this unit.
CAUTION
The VOABlade expansion modules are sensitive to electrostatic
discharge (ESD). Please be sure to store the modules that are not
installed in protective electrostatic packaging.
IMPORTANT
For electromagnetic compatibility, this instrument is a Class A product. It is
intended for use in an industrial environment. There may be potential
difficulties in ensuring electromagnetic compatibility in other environments,
due to conducted as well as radiated disturbances.

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3 Introducing the VOABlade - Modular Variable Optical Attenuator
Coherent Solutions’MTP1000 & VOABlade is a reliable, fast and high density attenuation solution for research
and continuous-production environments. The attenuators are installed as modules with 2 or 4 attenuators.
Each module has an integrated power meter for precise output power control, even with fluctuating input.
With up to 9 VOABlades in a single unit, you have up to 36 individual attenuators - which can be controlled
individually or in sync through one, intuitive software application.
The modular chassis design of the MTP1000, with nine (9) expansion slots, can hold up to thirty six (36)
variable optical attenuators providing great flexibility to manage the number of attenuators to meet changing
laboratory demands.
Figure 1 - Coherent Solutions VOABlade - Modular Variable Optical Attenuator
Figure 2 - Coherent Solutions MTP1000 Modular Platform with different Blades

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Coherent Solutions | VOABlade (V1.4)
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All MTP1000 mainframes connected to the
network can be managed remotely from a
single client using the simple and intuitive
‘Test Instrument Manager’software
interface.
Alternatively, VISA programming
environments such as MATLAB can also be
implemented to integrate with existing test
software or data collection procedures.
Figure 3 - Test Instrument Manager Software

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4 VOABlade Features
1. Variable optical input
2. Variable optical output
(option of 2 or 4 attenuators per Blade)
3. Release latch

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5 MTP1000 Features
MTP1000 Front Panel
MTP1000 Back Panel
1.
Power On/Off
6.
Thermal Regulation Fans (6)
2.
USB 2.0 Connection
7.
Mains Power Isolation Switch
3.
Ethernet Connection
8.
AC Power 100-240V, 50-60Hz
4.
Laser Interlock (Output Enable/Disable)
5.
Blade Expansion Slots (9 Bays)

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6Connecting Optical Output
IMPORTANT
To ensure maximum power and to avoid erroneous readings always inspect
fiber ends and make sure that they are clean as explained below before
inserting them into the port. Coherent Solutions is not responsible for
damage or errors caused by bad fiber cleaning or handling.
CAUTION
The type of optical connectors on the VOABlade is specific to the VOABlade
modules installed. The connectors will be of type PM FC/UPC or PM
SC/UPC. This information can be found printed on the release latch of the
VOABlade module. Joining mismatched connectors will damage the
ferrules.
6.1 Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers
To connect the fiber-optic cable to the port:
1. Inspect the fiber using a fiber inspection microscope. If the fiber is clean, proceed to connecting it to the
port. If the fiber is dirty, clean it as explained below.
2. Clean the fiber ends as follows:
2a. Gently wipe the fiber end with a lint-free swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol.
2b. Use compressed air to dry completely.
2c. Visually inspect the fiber end to ensure its cleanliness.
3. Carefully align the connector and port to prevent the fiber end from touching the outside of the port or
rubbing against other surfaces. If your connector features a key, ensure that it is fully fitted into the port’s
corresponding notch.
4. Push the connector in so that the fiber-optic cable is firmly in place, thus ensuring adequate contact. If
your connector features a screw sleeve, tighten the connector enough to firmly maintain the fiber in place.
Do not over tighten, as this will damage the fiber and the port.
Note: If your fiber-optic cable is not properly aligned and/or connected, you will notice heavy loss and reflection.
Coherent Solutions uses good quality connectors in compliance with EIA-455-21A standards.
To keep connectors clean and in good condition, Coherent Solutions strongly recommends inspecting them
with a fiber inspection probe before connecting them. Failure to do so will result in permanent damage to the
connectors and degradation in measurements.

Modular Variable Optical Attenuator | VOABlade
Coherent Solutions | VOABlade (V1.4)
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7Installing a VOABlade Expansion Module
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to remove or adjust any component of the MTP1000 while the
power is on. Make sure you follow the correct procedures below and power down
the MTP1000 first.
CAUTION
Do not remove the VOABlade from the antistatic packaging until instructed
during the following installation procedure.
The VOABlade is sensitive to ESD. Please be sure to wear a grounded wrist
strap at all times when handling the VOABlade module to prevent such
damage.
Take care not to handle the connector on the VOABlade module once they are
exposed as this may leave corrosive residue which can damage the connector.
Note: You will need a Phillips screwdriver to both unfasten the blanking module and secure the new VOABlade
module in place.
Power down the MTP1000
1. Press the Power On/Off switch. The switch will
no longer be illuminated indicating that the
instrument is off.
Remove the blanking module
2. To remove the blanking module of the desired
slot, loosen the screw underneath the release
latch. Do not attempt to
remove the screw completely as they are
designed to stay inside the release latch.
Figure 4 - Turn Off Power
Figure 5 - Unfasten screw under Release Latch

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Coherent Solutions | VOABlade (V1.4)
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3. Slide the blanking module out to remove it and
store the blanking module near the
MTP1000 for future use.
Remove the VOABlade from packaging
4. Unpack the VOABlade module from the
antistatic packaging, making sure to store the
packaging near the MTP1000 so it is available to
safely store any VOABlade that may be
removed in the future.
Figure 6 - Remove Blanking Module
Insert the VOABlade securing into place
5. Slide the VOABlade into the available slot using
the guide rails.
Figure 7 - Remove and store Antistatic Packaging
Figure 8 - MTP1000 and VOABlade Guide Rails

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6. Once the VOABlade reaches the connector at
the end of the slot, press your thumbs on the
release latch and the top of the VOABlade
module as shown in Figure 10 to make sure the
VOABlade seats correctly.
Figure 9 - Install the VOABlade Module
7. Once the VOABlade is installed, fasten the
screw in the release latch to lock the VOABlade
into place.
Figure 10 - Press the VOABlade Module to seat it into
the Connector
Figure 11 - Fasten screw in Release Latch
Power on the MTP1000
8. Power on the MTP1000 by pressing the
Power On/Off switch. The switch will
become illuminated to verify that the
instrument is powered on.
Figure 12 - Power On the MTP1000
IMPORTANT
After powering on the MTP1000, please wait at least 2 minutes before
attempting to communicate with the instrument. This will allow the
MTP1000 enough time to finish boot procedures and initialize the
communication server.

Modular Variable Optical Attenuator | VOABlade
Coherent Solutions | VOABlade (V1.4)
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The new VOABlade is now ready for use.
9. Use your preferred method of
communicating with the MTP1000 to use
the newly installed VOABlade.
Figure 13 - TIM software

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Coherent Solutions | VOABlade (V1.4)
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8 Removing a VOABlade Expansion Module
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to remove or adjust any component of the MTP1000 while the
power is on. Make sure you follow the correct procedures below and power down
the MTP1000 first.
CAUTION
The VOABlade is sensitive to ESD. Please be sure to wear a grounded wrist
strap at all times when handling the VOABlade module to prevent such
damage.
Take care not to handle the connector on the VOABlade module once they are
exposed as this may leave corrosive residue which can damage the connector.
IMPORTANT
A Blanking module will be required to replace the removed VOABlade module.
Please make sure you have a blanking module available. The specifications of
the VOABlade are only valid when all empty slots have blanking modules.
You will need antistatic packaging to store the VOABlade upon removal at the
appropriate step in the following installation procedures. Please make sure
this packaging is immediately available before continuing with the following
procedure.
Note: You will need a Phillips screwdriver to both unfasten the VOABlade module and secure the blanking
module in place.
Acquire storage electrostatic packaging and blanking module
1. In preparation for removal of the VOABlade module, locate and retrieve the antistatic packaging the
VOABlade was supplied in. This should have been stored near the MTP1000 when the VOABlade was
installed.
2. Also you will require a blanking module to install once the VOABlade has been removed.
IMPORTANT
Do not continue unless you have the blanking module and appropriate
storage packaging for the removed VOABlade. If the VOABlade is not stored
correctly it may be affected by ESD. The specifications of the VOABlade are
only valid when all slots have blanking modules.

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Coherent Solutions | VOABlade (V1.4)
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Power down the MTP1000
3. Press the Power On/Off switch. The
switch will no longer be illuminated
indicating that the instrument is off.
Figure 14 - Turn Off Power
WARNING
Take care when handling the VOABlade as during operation the VOABlade
module may be very hot.
Remove the VOABlade
4. To remove the desired VOABlade module,
loosen the screw underneath the release latch.
Do not try to remove the screw completely as
they are designed to stay inside the release
latch.
Figure 15 - Unfasten screw under Release Latch
5. Press downward on the release latch to unseat
the VOABlade module from the back connector
as shown in Figure 16.
Figure 16 - Press down on the Release Latch
6. Slide the VOABlade module out to remove.
Figure 17 - Slide out the VOABlade Module

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Package the VOABlade for storage
7. Once removed, put the VOABlade module into
the antistatic packaging for storage. This will
ensure the VOABlade is not subject to ESD.
Figure 18 - Store the VOABlade Module
8. Slide the blanking module into the empty slot
using the guide rails.
Figure 19 - Install the Blanking Module
9. Once the blanking module is fully inserted,
fasten the screw in the release latch to secure
the blanking module into place.
Figure 20 - Fasten screw under Release Latch
Power on the MTP1000
10. Power on the MTP1000 by pressing the Power
On/Off switch. The switch will become
illuminated to verify that the instrument is
powered on.
Figure 21 - Power on the MTP1000
IMPORTANT
After powering on the MTP1000, please wait at least 2 minutes before
attempting to communicate with the instrument. This will allow the MTP1000
enough time to finish boot procedures and initialize the communication server.

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9 Hardware Installation
This section details the hardware connections required to setup the MTP1000 instrument. Depending on the
hardware setup you are using, not all of the following connections may be required.
9.1 Connections for Remote Operation
The recommended form of communication between any client PC and the MTP1000 is via TCP/IP over the
Ethernet. By default the MTP1000 is set to obtain an IP address automatically from a DHCP server. If there is
no DHCP server on your network, you will have to configure a static IP for the MTP1000 using the USB
connection web interface.
For both USB and Ethernet connections to the instrument please insure that your Firewall settings are
configured such that the instrument can be found by your PC.
If an Ethernet network is not available a dedicated client PC can be used. This dedicated client PC will require
an available USB 2.0 port.
9.2 Connecting the Ethernet (recommended)
Connect the MTP1000 Ethernet port to either:
1. The Ethernet Hub of your network to allow any network client the ability to connect remotely.
2. The Ethernet port of a dedicated client PC (this PC being the only client to have remote access)
using:
2a. an Ethernet cross-over cable
2b. Ethernet patch cables and small network hub
9.3 Connecting the USB (optional)
To perform administrative tasks such as configuration of the network settings, updating firmware and
downloading log files, the USB connection is required. You may also require use of the USB as a TCP/IP
connection if no alternative Ethernet connection is available.
IMPORTANT
You may only have one MTP1000 connected via the USB at any time. If
connections to more than one MTP1000 are required, an Ethernet
network must be used.
The IP Addressing described below is for the USB network connection.
The IP Address for the MTP1000 is 192.168.96.201.
Windows 7 and Windows 8
1. Connect a USB cable (type male A to male B) between the USB 2.0 port at the back of the MTP1000 and
any available USB 2.0 port on the client PC.
2. Once connected, Windows will automatically install the drivers for the USB Ethernet connection. If the
drivers do not automatically install, please refer to the Manual Driver Installation instructions steps 1 to 9
below to install the USB driver.
3. The units USB connection has a static IP address of 192.168.96.201, subnet mask 255.255.255.0
4. The USB Ethernet is now configured.

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Manual Driver Installation
1. In response to the ‘Can Windows connect to Windows Update to search for software?’ select ‘No, not this
time’ and click Next.
2. Select ‘Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)’ and click Next.
3. Select ‘Don't search. I will choose the driver to install’and click Next.
4. Click the ‘Have Disk’button.
5. Click the ‘Browse’ button and locate the oem31.inf file, which can be found in the drivers folder within the
supplied installation media. Click Next to continue.
6. Click ‘Continue Anyway’when prompted that the driver has not verified its compatibility with Windows.
7. If prompted that ‘The file 'usb8023x.sys' on Windows driver cabinet is needed’, click the ‘Browse’ button
and locate the file inside the drivers folder within the supplied installation media and click OK to continue.
8. The units USB connection has a static IP address of 192.168.96.201, subnet mask 255.255.255.0
9. The USB Ethernet is now configured.
Note: Refer to section 14 USB Connection Web Interface for details on the administrative tasks available over
the USB network connection.