Optical Receiver Emulates Wide-Band Optical Node

A new portable optical receiver has been developed to monitor and measure the optical modulation index of an optical carrier to simplify setup and maintenance. The FOS-860A optical receiver is designed to look like the typical wide-band optical node widely used in CATV, CCTV, multi-channel, or other high-quality optical communications networks. Capable of measuring the OMI of an optical carrier in percent, per channel, or total, all controls on this microprocessor-controlled instrument are front-panel accessible. Results are displayed on an easy-to-read backlit LCD with 48 characters across two lines. With front panel BCD pushbuttons for easy channel loading, the receiver measures optical power in mW or dBmW within the 1,310 nm and 1,550 nm optical windows, in either absolute or relative modes. A 75W RF output drives spectrum analyzers or other network devices while the device measures and displays the RF output level of the modulating signals. Pricing is $6,995. M2 OPTICS INC., San Marcos, CA. (888) 205-2278.