Bristol 428A Multi-Wavelength Meter

The Bristol 428A is a multi-wavelength meter designed for precise optical signal analysis. It utilizes a Michelson interferometer in conjunction with fast Fourier transform (FFT) analysis to measure the wavelength and power of discrete optical signals. This instrument is engineered for applications in research and development, as well as manufacturing, particularly within Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) systems.

Technical Specifications * Optical Signal Type: Continuous Wave (CW) and modulated signals.

• Wavelength Range: 1270 nm to 1650 nm (equivalent to 182 to 236 THz). This range covers both the C and L bands.
• Wavelength Measurement Accuracy: * Absolute Accuracy: ± 0.2 parts per million, which equates to ± 0.3 pm at 1550 nm. * Differential Accuracy: ± 0.15 parts per million. * Repeatability: ± 0.03 parts per million (± 0.05 pm at 1550 nm).
• Wavelength Display Resolution: 0.0001 nm.
• Power Measurement Accuracy: * Calibration Accuracy: ± 0.5 dB, specified at ± 30 nm from 1310 nm and 1550 nm. * Flatness: ± 0.2 dB across the 1270 nm to 1600 nm range, within 30 nm of any wavelength. * Linearity: ± 0.3 dB for lines above -30 dBm within the 1270 nm to 1600 nm range. * Polarization Dependence: ± 0.5 dB across the 1270 nm to 1600 nm range.
• Power Display Resolution: 0.01 dB.
• Optical Signal-to-Noise Ratio (OSNR) Calculation: Automatically calculates OSNR to greater than 40 dB. * With 100 averages and 100 GHz channel spacing: OSNR > 40 dB. * With 100 averages and 50 GHz channel spacing: OSNR > 35 dB.
• Signal Capacity: Capable of measuring up to 250 discrete optical signals simultaneously. Some sources indicate up to 1000 discrete optical signals.
• Optical Input Signal Sensitivity: * Single line input: -40 dBm (1270 nm to 1600 nm), -30 dBm (1600 nm to 1650 nm). * Multiple line input: 30 dB below total input power, but not less than single line input sensitivity.
• Maximum Power Levels: * Displayed level: +10 dBm (sum of all lines input). * Safe level: +18 dBm (sum of all lines input).
• Return Loss: 35 dB (UPC), 50 dB (APC).
• Internal Calibration Standard: Employs a continuously calibrated, built-in HeNe laser wavelength standard for sustained accuracy. The HeNe laser is stabilized using a precise balanced longitudinal mode technique.

Interfaces * Instrument Interface: Supports SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) protocol via USB 2.0 and Ethernet. GPIB (General Purpose Interface Bus) is also available as an option.

Physical Characteristics * Optical Input Connector: Compatible with 9/125 µm single-mode fiber, utilizing FC/UPC or FC/APC connectors.

Operational Features * Measurement Technology: Combines Michelson interferometer-based technology with fast Fourier transform analysis.

• Self-Calibration: Features continuous self-calibration against an internal HeNe laser wavelength standard.
• Display and Reporting: Front panel provides real-time display of wavelength, power, and OSNR in various formats. Data for individual channels or sorted lists can be displayed. Measurement information can be transmitted to a PC via USB or Ethernet, or optional GPIB.

Compatibility * WDM Systems: Designed for testing Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) signals.

• Laser Transceivers: Widely used for testing laser transceivers.

Design and Construction * Rugged Design: Packaged in a rugged chassis suitable for laboratory or manufacturing environments, available in benchtop or rack-mounted configurations. Why Choose Aumictech for the Bristol 428A?

At Aumictech, we specialize in supplying high-end optical test and measurement equipment. Whether you need precise wavelength analysis, accurate power measurement, or reliable OSNR calculations, our team ensures the Bristol 428A delivers maximum performance for your optical network testing applications.