Santec TSL-550 Tunable Laser

The Santec TSL-550 is a widely tunable laser source engineered for precision optical testing, component characterization, and fiber optic communication system validation. It delivers high output power across a broad wavelength range with exceptional spectral purity, enabled by an innovative cavity design that minimizes ASE noise. The instrument supports mod-hop-free tuning with fine-tuning and coherence control capabilities, along with dual-mode power management (auto feedback and manual control via internal power meter).

Two configuration options are available: Type A with ±15 pm wavelength accuracy and 400 kHz linewidth, and Type C offering enhanced absolute accuracy of ±3 pm with 200 kHz linewidth. Both versions feature integrated wavelength metering, GPIB and USB interfaces, and SCPI command compatibility for automated measurement integration in production and laboratory environments. The TSL-550 enables WDL and PDL measurements when paired with Santec's MPM-210H power meter and supporting software.

Technical Specifications

• Wavelength Tuning Range: 1260 nm to 1680 nm (O-Band, ES-Band, SCL-Band, CL-Band, U-Band options available; excludes water absorption lines)


• Output Power (Peak, typical): ≥ +13 dBm


• Output Power (Full Tuning Range, typical): ≥ +10 dBm


• Signal-to-Source Spontaneous Emission Ratio (SSER): ≥ 90 dB/0.1 nm


• Linewidth (Type A): 400 kHz


• Linewidth (Type C): 200 kHz


• Wavelength Accuracy (Type A): ±15 pm


• Wavelength Accuracy (Type C): ±3 pm


• Power Control: Auto mode (with internal power meter feedback) and Manual mode

Key Features

• Minimized ASE noise through optimized cavity design


• Mod-hop-free tuning with fine-tuning control


• Coherence control functionality for precision measurements


• Internal wavelength meter with type-dependent accuracy


• GPIB and USB connectivity with SCPI command support

Typical Applications

• Optical component characterization and testing


• Wavelength Dependent Loss (WDL) and Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL) measurements


• Fiber optic communication system validation


• Photonic material analysis


• Production inspection with enhanced scan repetition rates

Compatibility & Integration Pairs with Santec MPM-210H power meter and dedicated measurement software for comprehensive loss analysis across the full tuning range.