VeEX UX400 OSA module for CWDM and DWDM testing

The UX400 OSA module is an optical spectrum/channel analyser for coarse wavelength multiplexing (CWDM) and dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) testing. Using micro-optic design and MEMS tuning technology, the module measures key optical parameters such as wavelength, channel power and OSNR.

CWDM technology is often used in enterprise or metro networks to increase bandwidth capacity. CWDM transmission systems can transport up to 16 channels in the 1270 to 1610 nm spectrum, with a 20 nm channel interval. The width of each channel is 13 nm while the remaining 7 nm is designed to be the guard band to the next channel. Due to the 20 nm channel spacing, cost-effective uncooled lasers can be used. CWDM technology is often used to transport different types of services, eg, Ethernet, SDH/SONET, and fibre channel (FC), but it has limitations in the distance over which the traffic is transported and also in the total channel count.

The OSA module is a compromise between a full-blown OSA and an optical channel analyser. The unit features the most important spectrum analysis capabilities required to install, commission and troubleshoot DWDM and CWDM networks. The unit features a rugged mechanical design with no moving parts and does not require periodic calibration. The hardware and user interface are optimised for simplicity - measurements settings are also kept to a minimum, making it easy to use for any skill level. Despite its simple operation, the unit still features the most critical OSA measurement capabilities such as precise power and wavelength characterisation.

Platform highlights include: precise measurement of WDM wavelengths; wide wavelength range; high wavelength accuracy and resolution; built-in wavelength reference; high power sensitivity; power accuracy; compact, lightweight, 1-slot module; good shock resistance; periodic calibration not required; ultralow power consumption; low temperature sensitivity; intuitive operation with dedicated test functions; and touch screen for simple zooming and navigation.

Key features include: S, C and C+L band wavelength ranges; fast continuous scanning - full spectrum in <4 s; simultaneous measurements of up to 160 channels; DWDM channel spacing down to 50 GHz; channel power measurement; channel threshold detection; high dynamic range: >50 dB; OSNR measurement: >30 dB; low polarisation dependent loss (PDL): <0.3 dB; universal optical interface with industry-standard optical adaptor types; supports different modulation schemes used for 10/40/100 GHz transmission systems.