ILX Lightwave FOM-7900B: Multi-Channel Source Mainframe

The ILX Lightwave FOM-7900B is a modular multi-channel source mainframe for precise control and characterization of laser diodes and optical sources across WDM and CWDM applications. Accommodating up to 8 plug-in modules per mainframe, it scales to 200 channels across 25 linked units under single GPIB control, delivering synchronized modulation to 500 kHz and integrating laser sources, switches, and power meters for EDFA, SOA, and fiber optic component testing.

Technical Specifications Mainframe Architecture

Up to 8 plug-in modules per mainframe

System scaling: up to 25 additional FOM-7900B mainframes (200 channels total)

Single GPIB address control for all scaled systems

Two-line, 20-character VFD display Modulation Capabilities

Internal synchronous modulation to 500 kHz

Modulation waveform frequency: 0.1 – 500 kHz

Modulation input frequency: 1 – 500 kHz

Processor-controlled 100% depth, 50% duty cycle

Synchronous modulation across all active modules (1–500 kHz range)

Mainframe trigger for multi-module output synchronization Control & Interface

GPIB/IEEE-488.2 and RS-232 remote programming

LabVIEW instrument drivers included

Front-panel user interface Laser Source Modules (FOS-79800 Series)

Wavelength range: 1475–1625 nm (user-specified ITU or custom)

Service channels: 1310, 1480, 1510, 1625 nm

S, C, and L-band WDM DFB sources

Tuning range: 1.7 nm per channel at 0.001 nm resolution

Maximum power: 9–20 mW per channel

Wavelength stability: ±3 pm

Power stability: ±0.003 dB

Attenuation accuracy: ±0.1 dB

Coherence control: linewidth 30 MHz to 1 GHz

Optional shutter and PM alignment Fiber Optic Switch Module (FOS-79710)

Configuration: 1×4

Wavelength range: 1290–1650 nm

Insertion loss: ≤1.7 dB

Crosstalk: ≤−80 dB

Polarization dependent loss: ≤0.05 dB

Repeatability: <±0.03 dB

Switching time: 300 ms + 16 ms/channel

Return loss: <55 dB

Switch life: <10 million cycles

Bi-directional operation; timed, random, sequential, or triggered modes

Key Features

Picometer-resolution wavelength setting

Simultaneous multi-module parameter control and monitoring

Broad wavelength coverage for long-haul and metro networks

Low insertion loss and high crosstalk isolation

Cost-effective platform for R&D and production test

Typical Applications

WDM and CWDM system characterization

EDFA and SOA testing

Fiber optic component evaluation

Multi-wavelength source integration

High-channel-count automated test systems

Compatibility & Integration Standard GPIB and RS-232 interfaces enable integration into existing automated test environments. LabVIEW drivers support rapid application development and system customization.