OPTILAB EDFA-MP-MSA User manual

Optilab EDFA-MP-MSA User’s Manual
Erbium Doped Fiber Amplifier –High Power MSA Complaint Module
Caution: The user must read this manual before operating the EDFA-MP-MSA unit.
Operations other than those described in this manual may result in personal
injury and damage to the unit.
Note that any attempt to open or fix the equipment without prior approval by
Optilab, LLC. voids the warranty.
Ver. 1.6
January 5th, 2022

EDFA-MP-MSA User’s Manual
Page ii of iii
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: (602) 343-1496, Fax: (602) 343-1489, Email: sales@oequest.com
Revision History
VERSION
DATE
SUMMARY
1.0
07/22/10
Manual introduced.
1.1
06/02/11
Housing modification
1.2
03/26/14
Corrected the electrical pin definitions
1.3
03/27/19
Logo and format update
1.4
03/29/19
Command set updated
1.5
05/01/19
Housing mod, PN change, base specs did not change
1.6
01/05/22
Power supply update
Copyright ©2022 by Optilab, LLC.
All rights reserved.
This document is copyrighted property of Optilab, LLC. It may not be used in whole or in part for
manufacture, sale, or design of items without the written permission of Optilab, LLC.
Information herein is preliminary and subject to change without any notices

EDFA-MP-MSA User’s Manual
Page iii of iii
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: (602) 343-1496, Fax: (602) 343-1489, Email: sales@oequest.com
Table of Contents
1. GENERAL INFORMATION 1
1.1 INTRODUCTION 1
1.2 PRODUCT OVERVIEW 1
1.3 FEATURES 1
1.4 USER SAFETY 1
2. OPERATION 2
2.1 INTRODUCTION 2
2.2 INITIAL INSPECTION 2
2.3 CONTROLS 2
2.4 30 PIN-OUT DIAGRAM 4
2.5 OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 4
2.6 PC CONNECTION MODE 6
2.7 RS232 COMMAND SET 6
3. TROUBLESHOOTING 7
4. SERVICE AND SUPPORT 8
4.1 WARRANTY 8
4.2 SERVICE AND CALIBRATION 8
4.3 CARE OF FIBER-OPTIC CONNECTORS 8

EDFA-MP-MSA User’s Manual Page 1 of 9
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: (602) 343-1496, Fax: (602) 343-1489, Email: sales@oequest.com
1. General Information
1.1 Introduction
This manual contains information on the installation and operation of the EDFA-MP-
MSA modular erbium doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) unit.
1.2 Product Overview
The Optilab EDFA-MP-MSA EDFA Module is an ideal building block for
photonic subsystems and OEM system integration. Using an FBG stabilized,
uncooled pump LD, this low power (LP) version of the EDFA module is
designed for minimal electrical power consumption and thermal loading. Pump
laser protection and alarms are equipped to ensure the reliability and safety of
the device. The module requires only a single 5VDC power supply for operation,
with total current draws as low as 260mA in saturation output mode.
1.3 Features
•Low power consumption of less than 1.5W
•High stability
•Low noise
•Low polarization dependence
•Modular Design for OEM Integration
1.4 User Safety
1. The EDFA-MP-MSA unit emits high intensity invisible light from the optical
output receptacle. Avoid direct exposure to skin and eyes.
2. The module case is fully certified for EMS protection. The user should
never open the module case; any attempt will void the warranty and may
result in electric shock and EMS attack to equipment in the vicinity.
3. The user should avoid using any solvent or vaporizing chemical to clean the
exterior. It may result in damage to the surface and internal circuits.

EDFA-MP-MSA User’s Manual Page 2 of 9
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: (602) 343-1496, Fax: (602) 343-1489, Email: sales@oequest.com
2. Operation
2.1 Introduction
This chapter describes how to operate the EDFA-MP-MSA unit, and discusses
the location and function of the controls and connectors.
2.2 Initial Inspection
Your EDFA-MP-MSA was carefully inspected before it left the manufacturer. It
should be in proper working order upon receipt. You should, however, inspect
the unit for any damage that may have occurred in transit. If the shipping
container or the packing material is damaged, keep it until the contents of the
shipment have been checked to be free of mechanical and electrical damages.
Notify Optilab, LLC promptly if any notable damage is found.
2.3 Controls
FEATURE
FUNCTION
ELECTRICAL
CONNECTION PORT,
30 PIN
This port is used to connect the EDFA module to the power
supply and RS232 cable. It is a 30 pin type connector, with
the full pin-out diagram shown on page 5 of this manual
OPTICAL INPUT AND
OUTPUT FIBER
PORTS
The optical input and output fiber ports for the EDFA unit.
The fiber ports shown are FC/APC type.
AC/DC ADAPTOR
+5V power source that connects to the +5V round port of
the EDFA power adapter
An external optical isolator at specified wavelength should be used to protect the
EDFA-MP-MSA from optical feedback and to improve stability.
1
3
EDFA-MP-MSA –EDFA Module and Cables
2
1

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Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: (602) 343-1496, Fax: (602) 343-1489, Email: sales@oequest.com
EDFA-MP-MSA –Adapter Box
FEATURE
FUNCTION
EDFA MODULE CONNECTOR
PORT,30 PIN
This port is used to connect the power supply
assembly device to the EDFA module for operation.
It is a 30 pin connector.
DC POWER SOCKET
The DC power socket is connected to a DC power
source. The standard DC power source is the
AC/DC power adapter.
RS232 PORT
Using a RS232 port, this cable allows for remote
control and monitoring through a PC workstation.
User can choose between using either USB or
RS232.
④USB PORT
Using a RS232 port, this cable allows for remote
control and monitoring through a PC workstation.
User can choose between using either USB or
RS232.
1
2
3
4

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Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: (602) 343-1496, Fax: (602) 343-1489, Email: sales@oequest.com
2.4 30 Pin-Out Diagram
Listed below is the pin-out diagram for the 30 pin port on the external of the
EDFA-MP-MSA module:
2.5 Operation Instructions
Start-up Procedure
1. Ensure that the proper cable connections are made, which includes the
cable assembly interconnects (as shown on page 4) and the 30 pin
connection between the module and power supply.
2. Plug in the After plugging in the AC/DC Power Adaptor into the appropriate
socket, the 5V VDC supply will automatically be enabled to the EDFA.
3. Ensuring the optical input signal is turned off, connect the optical signal for
amplification via the optical input port using the indicated connector
patchcords.
4. Connect the optical output port using the indicated connector patchcords to
the appropriate signal destination to utilize the amplified optical output signal.
5. After checking all physical patchcord connections, turn the input signal laser
source on.
6. The EDFA-MP-MSA is now enabled, with the gain current set to maximum
amplification for the current input signal level.

EDFA-MP-MSA User’s Manual Page 5 of 9
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: (602) 343-1496, Fax: (602) 343-1489, Email: sales@oequest.com
Optical Output Adjustment Procedure
To adjust the optical output level via current bias adjustment for the EDFA-MP-
MSA, please refer to the PC connection mode in sections 2.6 and 2.7 for more
information.
Patchcord Swapping Procedure
1. Through either the AC/DC Power Adaptor disconnection or the computer
interface lowering the bias current, disable the optical output of the EDFA
module.
2. Swap patchcords as desired. Only connect the indicated connector
patchcords to the optical input/output receptacles, cleaning them as
necessary.
3. Re-enable the desired output power by reversing the procedure in step one;
normal operation will resume in a few seconds.
Over-temperature Procedure
1. When the Temp Overheat warning enables the pump laser will shutdown
automatically and the system will freeze up.
2. Disconnect the AC/DC power adaptor.
3. Restart the unit using the Start-up Procedure described above.
4. To prevent temperature issues in the future, please allow for adequate
ventilation and increased heat sinks for proper dissipation of heat.

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Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: (602) 343-1496, Fax: (602) 343-1489, Email: sales@oequest.com
2.6 PC Connection Mode
For the standard EDFA-MP-MSA, connecting the module to an external PC will
allow for parameter monitoring and pump current adjustments. If you have an
EDFA-MP-MSA with additional software control, please refer to the additional
supplemental manual for complete information.
Using the USB port on the cable assembly, connect the EDFA module to a PC
using the following connection diagram and serial port settings:
2.7 RS232 Command Set
When the electrical connections have been made, and the software settings for
serial port transmission are set correctly, you are now able to send commands
to the EDFA module. For the basic EDFA-MP-MSA, there are two commands
available:
READ –Displays the current parameters and settings.
SETC:XXX –Sets the current for the output of the laser, in which it will adjust
from the current setting to the selected setting in a few seconds. The current
selection range is between 0 –610 mA.
NOTE: All commands are appended with a carriage return and a line feed {CR-LF}.
EDFA-MP-MSA MODULE
USB
AC/DC Adapter
Adapter box

EDFA-MP-MSA User’s Manual Page 7 of 9
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: (602) 343-1496, Fax: (602) 343-1489, Email: sales@oequest.com
3. Troubleshooting
SYMPTOM
POSSIBLE CAUSE AND SOLUTION
OPTICAL OUTPUT POWER
NOT HIGH ENOUGH.
C: No optical input or optical input power too small.
S: Check optical input present or check optical input power is
correct.
C: Optical input/output connectors dirty.
S: Disable optical output and clean optical connectors.
C: Use of incorrect optical adapters or connectors.
S: Use only the indicated optical adapters and connectors. If
measurement instruments accept different connector type, then
use hybrid patchcords.
C: Optical output connector damaged.
S: Measure optical output power with power meter and compare
with readout on PC connection ‘READ’ command. Return to
Optilab for repair if the difference is high (>4 dB) and cannot be
corrected by cleaning or replacing the optical connectors. Always
apply dust cover plugs to unused optical ports to prevent the
damage of optical connectors.
C: Improper pin connections
S: If directly connecting the voltage to the 30 pin connector,
ensure that all +5 VDC pins are making adequate contact to your
supply.
EDFA MODULE IS
OVERHEATING
C: Insufficient ventilation / heat dissipation.
S: Place unit in well-ventilated area or supply additional fans for
ventilation. You may need to add a heat sink for additional heat
dissipation.
OPTICAL OUTPUT POWER
UNSTABLE.
C: Insufficient optical output isolation.
S: Connect isolator of corresponding wavelength to optical output
connector.
UNIT DOES NOT POWER
UP.
C: Improper pin connections
S: If directly connecting the voltage to the 30 pin connector,
ensure that all +5 VDC pins are making adequate contact to your
supply.
C: Insufficient electrical voltage.
S: Check that the electrical supply is at least 110 VAC.
C: AC Power cord is loose.
S: Plug power cord is firmly into the unit.
UNIT RESETS OR BLINKS
ON AND OFF.
C: Insufficient electrical voltage.
S: Check that the electrical supply is at least 110 VAC.

EDFA-MP-MSA User’s Manual Page 8 of 9
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: (602) 343-1496, Fax: (602) 343-1489, Email: sales@oequest.com
4. Service and Support
4.1 Warranty
Optilab, LLC guarantees its EDFA-MP-MSA unit is guaranteed to be free of
defects for 1 year from the date of shipment. The guarantee does not cover
any damages resulting from the misuse or improper handling of the equipment,
or any incidental or consequential loss. Note that the warranty will be void
upon any attempt to open or to fix the equipment by the user without prior
approval of Optilab, LLC
4.2 Service and Calibration
Your EDFA-MP-MSA unit has been designed to provide years of trouble-free
operation. No internal maintenance is required provided that the equipment is
properly handled, operated and kept away from contamination. For any
questions regarding the operation and performance of the unit, please contact
Optilab, LLC at:
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: (602) 343-1496
Fax: (602) 343-1489
Email: [email protected]
4.3 Care of Fiber-optic Connectors
Damage to optical connectors account for more than 70 percent of equipment
performance degradation. To avoid such damage, the user should use only
industrial grade 99% pure isopropyl alcohol and follow the procedures below to
keep the connectors, adaptors and receptacles clean.

EDFA-MP-MSA User’s Manual Page 9 of 9
Optilab, LLC
600 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: (602) 343-1496, Fax: (602) 343-1489, Email: sales@oequest.com
Cleaning Optical Connector End-face with Wipe and Alcohol
To properly clean optical connectors utilizing lens tissue grade wipes and alcohol
follow the procedure below. The moist wipe removes dust particles, oil and
contaminants that may damage or blot the end-face of the connector during
connection. The dry wipe removes residual alcohol that may be ignited by optical
emission.
1. Disable the optical output and turn off unit to prevent accidental exposure or
damage to the optical connector by optical emission.
2. Moisten a wipe with alcohol by placing on top of the alcohol dispenser and
push down to saturate the wipe.
3. Place the moist wipe on a work surface, and place a second dry wipe next
to it.
4. Wipe the optical connector, end-face down on the moist wipe 3 times and
then repeat on the dry wipe.
5. Visually inspect the end-face of the optical connector with an optical
microscope to verify cleanliness. Repeat steps 2 to 5 as needed.
Cleaning Optical Connector Sides, Receptacles, Adaptors with Swab and
Alcohol
Dust or particles can adhere to the insides of receptacles and adaptors or the sides of
the optical connector ferrule. Their presence can affect the alignment of the optical
fiber connectors and increase connection loss. To properly clean optical connectors,
receptacles, and adaptors utilizing a swab and alcohol follow the procedure below:
1. Disable the optical output and turn off unit to prevent accidental exposure or
damage to the optical connector by optical emission.
2. Moisten the swab by placing it on top of the alcohol dispenser and push
down to saturate the swab.
3. For receptacles, adapters, or other connection points, insert the moistened
swab and rotate the tip 1/2 turn clockwise and counter-clockwise 6 times
while applying light but firm pressure.
4. For fiber connectors, rotate the tip of the moistened swab 5 revolutions
around the connector while applying light but firm pressure.
5. Visually inspect the end face of the connector with an optical microscope to
verify cleanliness. Clean end-face as needed.
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