Ando AQ8201-31 Optical Atteunator Module
Ando Optical Attenuators. Resolution: ** 0.05 dB.
- Model
- Ando AQ8201-31
- Calibration
- Available on request
- Price
- $180
- Status
- In stock
- RFQ ref
- AQ8201-31
This unit
The Ando AQ8201-31 Optical Attenuator Module is a precision plug-in component for controlling optical power levels in fiber optic test systems. It delivers accurate attenuation with minimal insertion loss and excellent repeatability, making it essential for characterizing optical components and subsystems. The module integrates into Ando AQ8200 Series mainframes to enable flexible, modular measurement configurations across telecom and component validation workflows.
Technical Specifications
Wavelength Range: 1200 nm to 1600 nm
Maximum Attenuation: 60 dB
Attenuation Step Resolution: 0.05 dB
Insertion Loss: ≤ 2.5 dB
Optical Return Loss: ≥ 60 dB (1310–1550 nm)
Maximum Input Power: +23 dBm
Attenuation Linearity: ± 0.1 dB
Optical Connector: FC/APC
Form Factor: Single-slot plug-in module
Key Features
Low insertion loss maintains signal integrity during sensitive measurements
Excellent repeatability supports high-confidence calibration and validation
High optical return loss minimizes back-reflections and measurement artifacts
Wide wavelength coverage spans standard telecom C- and L-bands
Compact single-slot design fits into standard AQ8200 mainframe configurations
Typical Applications
Optical power level control in component testing
WDM, MUX/DEMUX, and AWG characterization
EDFA performance evaluation
Signal attenuation for dynamic range extension in optical measurements
Compatibility & Integration The AQ8201-31 operates as a plug-in module within Ando AQ8200 Series mainframes including the AQ8201A, AQ8202, AQ8203, and AQ8204. It integrates alongside other modules such as light sources, optical power meters, and optical switches to create configurable test systems tailored to specific measurement requirements.
Ando AQ8201-31 — Repair & Calibration Service
Aumictech offers NIST-traceable calibration and repair for the Ando AQ8201-31. Calibration covers attenuation accuracy at 5 or more set values across the full range (0 to rated maximum dB), attenuation linearity, wavelength-dependent attenuation at 1310 nm, 1490 nm, and 1550 nm, insertion loss at minimum attenuation (0 dB position), and polarization-dependent loss (PDL) where applicable. All calibrations ship with a NIST-traceable certificate. Turnaround is typically 1–3 business days after receipt.
Common Ando AQ8201-31 faults: motor and gear mechanism wear (attenuation steps or loss of smooth control), optical port contamination, EEPROM calibration data corruption. Most common faults are motor or gear mechanism wear on variable attenuators causing attenuation steps or loss of smooth control, optical port contamination reducing dynamic range, and EEPROM calibration data corruption on digitally controlled models.
Ando AQ8201-31 price
This Ando AQ8201-31 is listed at $180. Calibration is available separately from $450. Contact us for volume pricing or if you need multiple units.
Ando AQ8201-31 calibration cost
NIST-traceable calibration for the Ando AQ8201-31 is $450 (standard — pass/fail certificate and calibration sticker) or $650 (full measured data at every test point, reference standards documented, traceability chain included). Calibration for this instrument covers attenuation accuracy at 5 or more set values across the full range (0 to rated maximum dB), attenuation linearity, wavelength-dependent attenuation at 1310 nm, 1490 nm, and 1550 nm, insertion loss at minimum attenuation (0 dB position), and polarization-dependent loss (PDL) where applicable. Turnaround is 1 to 3 business days after receipt. See full calibration details →
