EXFO IQ-3100 User manual

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IQ-3100/IQ-3300
Variable Attenuator/Variable
Reflector
If the equipment described herein bears the symbol, the said equipment complies with
the European Community Directive and Standards found in the Declaration of Conformity.
If the equipment described herein bears an FCC statement, the said equipment complies with
the relevant Federal Communications Commission standards.

Instruction Manual
Fifth Edition
P/N: MAN-108-I .5ACE
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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 manual is subject to change without
notice.
© 2001 EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc.
Words which we consider as trademarks have been identified as such.
However, neither the presence nor absence of such identification affects
the legal status of any trademark.
July 2001
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Certification Information
Variable Attenuator/Variable Reflector iii
Certification Information
F.C.C. INFORMATION TO USER
This unit has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 (Subpart B) of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This unit generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance
with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this unit does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the unit off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
➤Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
➤Increase the separation between the unit and receiver.
➤Connect the unit into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which
the receiver is connected.
➤Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
IMPORTANT
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by EXFO
Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. could void the user’s authority to
operate the unit.
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Certification Information
iv IQ-3100/IQ-3300
➤This unit is equipped with a shielded three-wire power cord and plug.
Use this power cord in conjunction with a properly grounded electrical
outlet to avoid electrical shock and to reduce radio frequency
interference that may emanate from the power cord.
➤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.
➤When the GPIB option is present, this unit is equipped with a shielded
GPIB cable.
INDEPENDENT LABORATORY TESTING
This unit has undergone extensive certification testing both
internally, at EXFO, and externally, at an independent, qualified laboratory.
All pre-qualification tests were performed at EXFO while all final tests were
performed at UltraTech Engineering Labs Inc., a renowned test laboratory
from Mississauga, Canada. This guarantees the unerring objectivity and
authoritative compliance of all test results.
INFORMATION TO USER
This unit has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device. Please see the Declaration of Conformity.
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Contents
Variable Attenuator/Variable Reflector v
Contents
Certification Information.........................................................................................................iii
1 Introducing the IQ-3100/IQ-3300 ................................................................. 1
IQ-3100 Variable Attenuator ................................................................................................... 1
IQ-3300 Variable Reflector ......................................................................................................4
IQ-3100/IQ-3300 Software and Display Modes ....................................................................... 7
Remote Control for Both Modules........................................................................................... 7
2 Safety Information ....................................................................................... 9
Safety Conventions.................................................................................................................. 9
3 Getting Started with Your Variable Attenuator or Reflector ................... 11
Inserting and Removing Modules.......................................................................................... 11
Setting Up Optical Connections............................................................................................. 13
Using the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI) ............................................................................... 14
Loading and Using the Software ........................................................................................... 16
Typing Values with the Software Keypad............................................................................... 20
Using the Monitor Window................................................................................................... 23
Exiting the Software.............................................................................................................. 24
4 Setting up Your IQ-3100 and/or IQ-3300 .................................................... 25
Customizing the Wavelength List ......................................................................................... 25
Customizing the Step Size List............................................................................................... 29
IQ-3100/IQ-3300 Display Modes ........................................................................................... 33
Selecting a Display Mode ...................................................................................................... 34
Setting the Attenuation on the IQ-3100................................................................................ 39
Setting the Reflection on the IQ-3300 ................................................................................... 41
Selecting the Step Size .......................................................................................................... 44
Setting the Wavelength......................................................................................................... 45
Defining a B Value................................................................................................................. 46
Defining an Automatic Program Mode.................................................................................. 47
Defining an Offset Value ....................................................................................................... 52
Using the Shutter .................................................................................................................. 53
5 IQ-3100/IQ3300 Applications ...................................................................... 55
Measuring Multimode Insertion Loss .................................................................................... 55
Performing Accurate Power Level Monitoring ....................................................................... 57
Testing Network Sensitivity to Optical Reflection................................................................... 58
Evaluating Source Stability .................................................................................................... 59
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Contents
vi IQ-3100/IQ-3300
6 IQ-3100 and IQ-3300 Remote Control ........................................................61
GPIB Command Structure...................................................................................................... 61
Standard Commands ............................................................................................................ 62
IQ-3100/IQ-3300 Specific Commands ................................................................................... 69
Command Tree...................................................................................................................... 81
7 Maintenance ................................................................................................83
Cleaning the Front Panel ....................................................................................................... 83
Cleaning Fixed Connectors .................................................................................................... 84
Cleaning Connectors Equipped with EUI/EUA Adapters ........................................................ 86
Cleaning EUI/EUA Adapters ................................................................................................... 88
Cleaning Detector Ports.........................................................................................................90
Recalibrating the Unit ........................................................................................................... 90
8 Troubleshooting ..........................................................................................91
Using the Online Help ...........................................................................................................91
Finding FAQs on the EXFO Web Site...................................................................................... 91
Contacting the Technical Support Group............................................................................... 92
Transportation....................................................................................................................... 93
9 Technical Specifications ..............................................................................95
IQ-3100 Environmental Specifications................................................................................... 95
IQ-3100 Optical Specifications .............................................................................................. 96
IQ-3300 Environmental Specifications................................................................................... 99
IQ-3300 Optical Specifications ............................................................................................ 100
10 Warranty ....................................................................................................101
General Information............................................................................................................ 101
Liability................................................................................................................................ 102
Exclusions............................................................................................................................ 102
Certification ........................................................................................................................ 102
Service and Repairs ............................................................................................................. 103
EXFO Service Centers Worldwide......................................................................................... 104
Index................................................................................................................105
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Variable Attenuator/Variable Reflector 1
1 Introducing the
IQ-3100/IQ-3300
IQ-3100 Variable Attenuator
The IQ-3100 Variable Attenuator module is a high performance attenuator
that is part of the IQ-200 Optical Test System product line. High quality
components and meticulous calibration procedures ensure that the
IQ-3100 Variable Attenuator achieves repeatable and precise attenuation
settings (up to 100 dB). It is ideal for manufacturing and laboratory
applications such as erbium doped amplifier (EDFA) characterization,
component and system loss simulation, optical margin analysis, instrument
calibration, power meter linearity measurement and spectral tuning.
The IQ-3100 Variable Attenuator is configured for singlemode or multimode
fibers. Its calibration extends over the entire wavelength range (1200 nm to
1650 nm and 700 nm to 1350 nm). The optical return loss (ORL)
specification for the singlemode attenuator yields stable test results.
Test equipment complies with transmission equipment ORL standards.
Return loss for a singlemode IQ-3100B unit is higher than 55 dB; for a
singlemode IQ-3100BW, it is higher than 50 dB. Its polarization-dependent
Input port
Output port
LED push button
VARIABLE ATTENUATOR
IQ-3100
IN
OUT
MON
Monitor (MON) output port
(optional)
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Introducing the IQ-3100/IQ-3300
2IQ-3100/IQ-3300
IQ-3100 Variable Attenuator
loss (PDL) may attain a maximum of 0.3 dB. Keeping in mind that
attenuation is polarization-dependent and that a slight movement of
equipment patchcords can alter input signal polarization, low PDL means
that the polarization of the input signal has a minimal effect on the
attenuation setting.
The IQ-3100BM features a monitor output port for accurate power level
monitoring.
The IQ-3100BW offers high spectral uniformity in the WDM range from
1520 nm to 1570 nm. It is perfectly suited for WDM applications providing
the same attenuation level to all WDM channels simultaneously.
This allows complete characterization of amplifiers or subsystems.
Note: Both IQ-3100 and IQ-3300 modules are designed for laboratory and
industry applications using the IQ-200 Optical Test System.
Definition of Attenuation
The attenuation displayed by the IQ-3100 is the actual loss between the
input and output ports including the attenuator’s internal connectors.
The attenuation value is a negative number. The Bvalue in the X+B mode
is a correction factor applied to a specific wavelength. The offset value may
be positive or negative and is systematically added to the displayed
attenuation value. The offset value takes different factors into account such
as a component’s insertion loss. In the latter case, it is negative, thus
increasing the displayed attenuation value.
At EXFO, an IQ-3100 attenuation would be measured as follows:
➤Use two fiber-optic test jumpers and a bulkhead connector to connect
an IQ-1100 Power Meter to an IQ-2100 Light Source.
➤Reference the power meter.
➤Replace the bulkhead connector with the IQ-3100. The attenuation
displayed by the power meter is equal (within the limits of the absolute
accuracy) to the attenuation setting of the IQ-3100.
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Introducing the IQ-3100/IQ-3300
Variable Attenuator/Variable Reflector 3
IQ-3100 Variable Attenuator
Variable Attenuator Typical Applications
Applications for the IQ-3100 Variable Attenuator include the following:
➤Accurate variable output power levels over a large dynamic range
when used with an optical source (e.g., IQ-2100)
➤Power meter calibration and linearity verification
➤Fiber-optic system or component testing and acceptance such as
erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) characterization
➤Simulation of fiber-optic system loss
➤Optical margin analysis
➤Spectral tuning
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Introducing the IQ-3100/IQ-3300
4IQ-3100/IQ-3300
IQ-3300 Variable Reflector
IQ-3300 Variable Reflector
The IQ-3300 Variable Reflector is ideal for source power and spectral
stability measurements, system noise performance tests, and applications
characterizing bit error against return loss.
Note: Actual ports may differ from those depicted in the illustration.
Definition of Reflection
The reflection displayed by the IQ-3300 is the actual reflection sent back to
the light source connected at the input port.
➤With a monitor port, it is possible to infer the reflection because the
internal coupler distributes 50% of the reflection signal towards the
input port and another 50% towards the monitor port.
➤With an output port, it is possible to evaluate the influence of the
reflection on the light source.
Input port
Output port
Reflection monitor (RM) port
LED push button
VARIABLE REFLECTOR
IQ-3300
IN
RM
OUT
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Introducing the IQ-3100/IQ-3300
Variable Attenuator/Variable Reflector 5
IQ-3300 Variable Reflector
Measurement Principles
EXFO’s IQ-3300 consists of a variable attenuator and a precision mirror
coupled to an input port, an output port, and a monitor port. Light from the
transmitter or source under test is connected to the input port then split
through a coupler. One beam goes to the output port, the other goes
through the internal variable attenuator to the precision mirror and is
reflected back through the attenuator to the input port. Part of the reflected
light is also coupled to the monitor port where an optical power meter can
be used to individually measure the intensity of the reflection.
The output port provides optical continuity (with less than 5 dB loss); a
network receiver, a BER tester or power meter is normally connected to
this port. The standard IQ-3300 is supplied with a 50% coupler offering a
-15 dB to -55 dB dynamic range. On request, a different ratio coupler can be
used to increase the range up to -14 dB simulating a maximum air-glass
optical interface reflection.
The IQ-3300 Variable Reflector is designed around a variable
attenuator/mirror assembly coupled to an input port, output port, and
monitoring port. Optical energy entering the input port is coupled to the
attenuator/mirror assembly and to the output port. There is less than 5 dB
loss between the input and output ports.
Signal to receiving
equipment (output)
Coupler
Reflector
Signal from transmission
equipment (input)
Return loss
(monitoring output) Attenuating
Filter
Connector
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Introducing the IQ-3100/IQ-3300
6IQ-3100/IQ-3300
IQ-3300 Variable Reflector
Optical energy passes through the attenuator, is reflected by the mirror,
returns through the attenuator, and is coupled back to the input port and
reflection monitor port. The intensity of the reflected optical energy is
determined by the attenuation introduced by the internal variable
attenuator.
The Variable Reflector is calibrated to provide between -15 dB and -55 dB
reflection.
Variable Reflector Typical Applications
The IQ-3300 Variable Reflector module is used to generate a calibrated
optical reflection back into the fiber connected to the input port. This
module will help to determine a system’s or component’s sensitivity to
reflected power.
Applications for the IQ-3300 Variable Reflector include the following:
➤bit error rate vs. return loss characterization
➤source power and spectral stability measurements
➤system noise performance tests
➤distortion tests and return loss meter certification
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Introducing the IQ-3100/IQ-3300
Variable Attenuator/Variable Reflector 7
IQ-3100/IQ-3300 Software and Display Modes
IQ-3100/IQ-3300 Software and Display Modes
The IQ-3100 and IQ-3300 software module operates in three display
modes: absolute, relative, and reference.
Remote Control for Both Modules
The IQ-3100 and IQ-3300 support local and remote control. Local control is
via the Windows-compatible software preinstalled on the IQ-203 Control
Unit, or installed on a host PC using the IQ-206 PC Expansion Card, and
using one of the following links:
➤a GPIB interface or an RS-232 external interface
➤Windows OLE/OCX (object linking and embedding) automation
➤a Windows DDE (dynamic data exchange) communication channel
Note: Please refer to the IQ-200 GPIB and IQ Applications development guide for
detailed information about remote control of IQ components.
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Variable Attenuator/Variable Reflector 9
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.
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Variable Attenuator/Variable Reflector 11
3 Getting Started with Your
Variable Attenuator or
Reflector
Inserting and Removing Modules
CAUTION
Never insert or remove a module while the IQ-203 Mainframe or
IQ-206 PC Expansion Card is powered on. This will result in immediate
and irreparable damage to the module and the IQ-203 or IQ-206.
To insert an IQ module in the IQ-200 Optical Test System,
1. Exit the IQ-200 software and power off the IQ-203 and IQ-206. If you are
controlling modules from a PC, you do not need to turn the PC off.
2. Remove the protective cover of any unused module slot, by pulling the
bottom of the cover and removing it completely.
3. Insert the IQ module into the empty slot. The IQ-203 or IQ-206 will
automatically recognize which slot you selected.
Bottom of
protective cover
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Getting Started with Your Variable Attenuator or Reflector
12 IQ-3100/IQ-3300
Inserting and Removing Modules
IMPORTANT
Be sure to insert the module all the way to the back of the IQ-203 or
IQ-206 so that the backplane connectors are properly mated. The
module is correctly inserted when its front panel is flush with the
IQ-203 or IQ-206 front panel.
Depending on the locking system design, there are two ways to remove an
IQ module from the IQ-203 Mainframe or IQ-206 PC Expansion Unit.
1. Exit the IQ-200 software and power off the IQ-203 and IQ-206. If you are
controlling modules from a PC, you do not need to turn the PC off.
2. Place your fingers under the module’s front panel.
OR
Push up the locking mechanism under the module’s front panel,
as shown below.
3. Firmly pull the module outward.
4. Put one of the supplied protective covers over the empty slot to prevent
dust from entering the module’s housing.
3
2
Locking
mechanism
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Getting Started with Your Variable Attenuator or Reflector
Variable Attenuator/Variable Reflector 13
Setting Up Optical Connections
LED Push Button
The LED push button on the front panel has the following three functions:
➤When the system is powered ON, the LED will illuminate.
➤Pressing the LED push button activates the main window.
➤Pressing the LED push button when the main window is open activates
the smaller monitor window.
Note: The monitor window is a compact window displaying basic data
(see on page 22).
Setting Up Optical Connections
IMPORTANT
Always clean fiber end prior to insertion into the port.
1. Gently wipe the fiber-optic cable end with a lint-free swab dipped in
isopropyl alcohol.
2. Dry using clean compressed air.
3. Align the connector and port to avoid the fiber end touching the
outside of the port or rubbing against other surfaces.
4. Do not overtighten.
Note: The IQ-3300 uses APC (angled physical contact) connectors.
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