Exfo FVA-60A Variable Optical Attenuator

The Exfo FVA-60A is a variable optical attenuator designed for precise control of optical signal power. It features a wide attenuation range, low insertion loss, and high return loss, making it suitable for various applications, including optical fiber testing, system simulation, and component characterization. The FVA-60A offers accurate and repeatable attenuation settings, ensuring reliable performance in demanding environments.

Model
Exfo FVA-60A
Calibration
Available on request
Price
$1,270
Status
In stock
RFQ ref
FVA-60A
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This unit

The EXFO FVA-60A is a handheld variable optical attenuator engineered for precise control of optical signal power in telecommunications and optical testing environments. This instrument delivers accurate, repeatable attenuation settings across a wide dynamic range, making it ideal for fiber characterization, system simulation, and component validation in single-mode optical networks.

Technical Specifications

Attenuation Range: Up to 70 dB

Attenuation Linearity: ±0.15 dB (2.5 to 70 dB)

Resolution: 0.05 dB

Repeatability: ±0.10 dB

Insertion Loss (worst case): 3.0 dB

Back Reflection (worst case): -26 dB

Operating Wavelengths: 1300 nm, 1550 nm

Fiber Type: Single-mode (9/125 µm)

Internal Fiber: Step Index

Numerical Aperture: 0.10

Optical Connectors: Legacy biconic fiber-optic connectors

Key Features

Three attenuation modes: Absolute, Relative, and X + b

Program mode for automated attenuation sequences with repeatable step control - essential for accelerated BER testing

Variable scanning speed up to 60 dB in 15 seconds (fast mode)

RS-232 interface for remote control and PC integration

Backlit display for low-light operation

Dual power architecture: rechargeable battery pack (NiCad or Ni-MH) with 2 × 9V alkaline battery backup

AC adapter available for continuous laboratory operation

Typical Applications

Optical fiber testing and characterization

BER testing and system performance validation

Component insertion loss and return loss measurement

Optical signal simulation and power control

Telecommunications network commissioning and troubleshooting

Compatibility & Integration Designed for single-mode fiber networks. RS-232 remote control enables integration into automated test systems and PC-based measurement platforms. EXFO manufacturing complies with ISO 9001 standards.

Specifications

ParameterValue
Wavelength Range1300 nm, 1550 nm

Exfo FVA-60A — Repair & Calibration Service

Aumictech offers NIST-traceable calibration and repair for the Exfo FVA-60A. 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.

Standard Cal
$450
Pass/fail cert + NIST sticker
Cal with Data
$650
Full NIST cert with measured values

Common Exfo FVA-60A 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.

Exfo FVA-60A price

This Exfo FVA-60A is listed at $1,270. Calibration is available separately from $450. Contact us for volume pricing or if you need multiple units.

Exfo FVA-60A calibration cost

NIST-traceable calibration for the Exfo FVA-60A 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 →

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