Ando AQ4320D 1520-1620nm Tunable Laser Source

The Ando AQ4320D is a tunable laser source delivering precise wavelength control across the 1520–1620 nm band for optical component and system characterization. Operating with ±0.1 nm absolute accuracy and ±0.035 nm relative accuracy (typical), the instrument provides stable, high-power output suitable for DWDM evaluation, fiber amplifier testing, and telecommunications research. Wavelength stability reaches ±100 MHz/h (±0.8 pm/h) typical, with 0.001 nm set resolution enabling fine spectral tuning.

Optical output ranges from –20.0 to +7.0 dBm (0.1 dBm steps), with typical power of +8 dBm or greater at 1550 nm and +3 dBm or greater across the full 1520–1620 nm range. Output reproducibility is ±0.04 dB, and stability holds to ±0.01 dB over 5 minutes and ±0.05 dB over 1 hour. The 60 dB side mode suppression ratio (typical) ensures minimal spectral noise for precise measurements.

Relative intensity noise measures –145 dB/Hz typical. Continuous wavelength sweep to 100 nm/sec supports rapid spectral mapping. Built-in wavelength standard and calibration function - requiring 30-minute warm-up post-power-on - establish traceability without external references.

Internal and external modulation capability (0.2–300 kHz) accommodates dynamic testing protocols. FC/PC connector with 50 dB or greater return loss delivers single-mode fiber coupling. Dimensions are 425 mm (W) × 177 mm (H) × 450 mm (D), weighing approximately 20 kg; AC power draw is 150 VA nominal (100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz).

Technical Specifications

• Wavelength range: 1520–1620 nm


• Absolute wavelength accuracy: ±0.1 nm


• Relative wavelength accuracy: ±0.035 nm (typ.)


• Wavelength stability: ±100 MHz/h (±0.8 pm/h) (typ.)


• Wavelength set resolution: 0.001 nm


• Optical output range: –20.0 to +7.0 dBm


• Optical output (1550 nm): +8 dBm or greater


• Optical output (1520–1620 nm): +3 dBm or greater


• Optical output accuracy: ±1 dB or less


• Optical output reproducibility: ±0.04 dB


• Optical output stability (5 min): ±0.01 dB or less


• Optical output stability (1 h): ±0.05 dB or less


• Optical output flatness: ±0.1 dB


• Side mode suppression ratio: 60 dB (typ.)


• Relative intensity noise: –145 dB/Hz (typ.)


• Wavelength sweep speed: 100 nm/sec (max.)


• Internal modulation frequency: 0.2–300 kHz


• External modulation frequency: 0.2–300 kHz


• Optical connector: FC/PC (50 dB or greater return loss)


• Fiber type: Single-mode fiber (10/125 µm)


• Power requirements: AC 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz, 150 VA (approx.)


• Dimensions: 425 (W) × 177 (H) × 450 (D) mm


• Mass: Approximately 20 kg

Key Features

• High wavelength accuracy and long-term stability for component and system evaluation


• Continuous sweep to 100 nm/sec for rapid spectral characterization


• Built-in wavelength standard with automated calibration function


• Low spectral noise: 60 dB SMSR and –145 dB/Hz RIN (typical)


• Flexible optical output control: –20 to +7 dBm with 0.1 dBm steps


• Internal and external modulation capability up to 300 kHz


• 0.001 nm wavelength resolution for precision tuning

Typical Applications

• DWDM system and component evaluation


• Optical fiber amplifier characterization


• Telecommunications research and development


• Spectral response measurement of optical components


• Component and subsystem validation in fiber-optic systems

Compatibility & Integration

• Single-mode fiber (10/125 µm) compatible


• FC/PC optical connector; other connector types upon manufacturer consultation


• Standard benchtop AC power (100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz)


• Suitable for laboratory and production test environments