User Guide FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator
Copyright © 2010–2011 EXFO Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, be it electronically, mechanically, or by any other means such as photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of EXFO Inc. (EXFO). Information provided by EXFO is believed to be accurate and reliable.
Contents Contents Certification Information ........................................................................................................ v 1 Introducing the FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator .......................................... 1 Main Features .........................................................................................................................1 Front Panel ......................................................................................................................
Contents 6 Controlling Your Variable Attenuator Remotely .......................................45 Setting Up the Variable Attenuator for Remote Control .......................................................45 Communication Parameters ..................................................................................................48 Standard Status Data Structure ............................................................................................49 Command Structure ..............................
Certification Information Certification Information FCC Information Electronic test equipment is exempt from Part 15 compliance (FCC) in the United States. However, compliance verification tests are systematically performed on most EXFO equipment. Information Electronic test equipment is subject to the EMC Directive in the European Union. The EN61326 standard prescribes both emission and immunity requirements for laboratory, measurement, and control equipment.
Certification Information DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Application of Council Directives: Manufacturer’s Name: Manufacturer’s Address: Equipment Type/Environment: Trade Name/Model No.: 2006/95/EC - The Low Voltage Directive 2004/108/EC - The EMC Directive 2006/66/EC - The Battery Directive 93/68/EEC - CE Marking And their amendments EXFO Inc.
1 Introducing the FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator Main Features The FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator is the instrument that allows you to perform several attenuation related tasks. The FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator is configured for singlemode and multimode fibers. It is built to offer a high spectral uniformity, an important feature which allows you to maintain the attenuation value throughout the entire WDM spectrum. Its low insertion loss allows you to minimize your loss budget.
Introducing the FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator Front Panel Front Panel Program menu access Confirmation button (Enter) Setup menu access Display Shutter control Arrow buttons for menu navigation and parameter setting Absolute mode access FVA-3150 VARIABLE ATTENUATOR Program ENTER Setup Step Abs Offset Up Shutter Ref Down Attenuation In Monitor On/off button Out Output port Wavelength control Reference mode access Monitor port (BM and DM models only) Input port Offset mode access Atte
Introducing the FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator Back Panel Back Panel Serial port (RS-232 DTE) Fuse holder Power inlet GPIB port Serial Port GPIB IEEE 488.2 R C MODEL: GO LR107723 US 100-240 V 50/60 Hz 2A F2AL250 V SH1, AH1, T6, L4, SR1, RL1, PP0, DC1, DT1, C0, E2 This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules.
Introducing the FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator Available Models Available Models According to the models you own, additional options are available. The FVA-3150-CM, FVA-3150-BM, and FVA-3150-DM all come with a monitor output, which ensures accurate power-level monitoring.
Introducing the FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator Main Concept Main Concept The significance of the attenuation value displayed by an optical attenuator may differ from one manufacturer to another. At EXFO, for example, the attenuation displayed by the FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator is the actual loss or attenuation between the input and the output ports of the Variable Attenuator, including the loss of its own internal connectors, after performing a reference reading with a power meter.
Introducing the FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator Conventions Conventions Before using the product described in this manual, you should understand the following conventions: WARNING Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury. Do not proceed unless you understand and meet the required conditions. CAUTION Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
2 Safety Information Laser Safety Information WARNING Do not install or terminate fibers while a light source is active. Never look directly into a live fiber and ensure that your eyes are protected at all times. WARNING Use of controls, adjustments and procedures for operation and maintenance other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure or impair the protection provided by this unit.
Safety Information Electrical Safety Information Electrical Safety Information This unit uses an international safety standard three-wire power cable. This cable serves as a ground when connected to an appropriate AC power outlet. Note: If you need to ensure that the unit is completely powered off, disconnect the power cable. WARNING Insert the power cable plug into a power outlet with a protective ground contact. Do not use an extension cord without a protective conductor.
Safety Information Electrical Safety Information WARNING Use this unit indoors only. Position the unit so that the air can circulate freely around it. Operation of any electrical instrument around flammable gases or fumes constitutes a major safety hazard. Do not remove unit covers during operation. To avoid electrical shock, do not operate the unit if any part of the outer surface (covers, panels, etc.) is damaged.
Safety Information Electrical Safety Information Equipment Ratings Temperature Operation 0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 °F) Storage -40 °C to 70 °C (-40 °F to 158 °F) Relative humidity a 0 % to 80 % non-condensing Maximum operation altitude Pollution degree 2000 m (6562 ft) 2 Overvoltage category b Power supply rating II 100 V to 240 V (50 Hz/60 Hz) maximum input power 2 A a. b. Measured in 0 °C to 31 °C (32 °F to 87.8 °F) range, decreasing linearly to 50 % at 40 °C (104 °F).
3 Getting Started With Your Variable Attenuator Installing your FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator in a Rackmount You can place your FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator in a rackmount to facilitate its usage. To install the rackmount: 1. Fix the angle iron using four flat Phillips screws. 3 2 4 1 2. Fix the rackmount bracket to the frame using two round Phillips screws. 3. Fix the rackmount stiffener using two flat Phillips screws (for the front panel) and two round Phillips screws. 4.
Getting Started With Your Variable Attenuator Installing your FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator in a Rackmount To install your FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator in a rackmount: 1. Slide the benchtop unit into the rackmount and tighten it from underneath using the four cover fixing screws. If measurement X on the illustration exceeds 11.125 in., fix the unit into the four holes identified as A. Otherwise, use the other four holes. X A 2.
Getting Started With Your Variable Attenuator Turning the Variable Attenuator On and Off Turning the Variable Attenuator On and Off When you turn on your unit: it beeps twice it performs a self-test it enters the mode that was active at the last power-off (Absolute, Offset, or Reference) When you turn the unit off, the following items remain in read-only memory: current shutter state current display mode current attenuation setting current wavelength shortlisted wavelengths
Getting Started With Your Variable Attenuator Accessing Menus To turn the unit on and off: Use the red button in the lower left corner of the front panel. IMPORTANT Some internal mechanisms can sometimes take a few seconds to adjust, depending on the operation performed. While the Variable Attenuator is performing internal adjustments (for example after having changed the wavelength or the attenuation setting), no buttons should be pressed while Program flashes on the display.
4 Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Selecting the Display Intensity Display intensity may be set to high or low. You can also turn off the display without turning off the unit. To select the display intensity: 1. Press the Setup button. 2. Use the left/right arrows to move until it displays DIMMER. 3. Press ENTER. The current dimmer state will start flashing. 4. Use the up/down arrows to modify the dimmer status: LO, HI, or OFF. 5. Press ENTER. Note: Setting the dimmer to OFF turns off the display.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Locking Control Key Access Locking Control Key Access To prevent unintended use of the FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator during operation, you can lock the control keys (the blue buttons on the front panel of the unit). To lock the control key access: 1. Press the Setup button. 2. Use the left/right arrows until LOCKOUT is displayed. 3. Press ENTER.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Managing the Wavelength Shortlist Managing the Wavelength Shortlist The FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator can test at many wavelengths. The accepted wavelengths depend on the configuration of your unit. You can store the wavelengths you use most often in a shortlist so you can quickly access them. The shortlist includes up to 20 wavelengths.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Managing the Wavelength Shortlist To add a wavelength to the shortlist: 1. Press the Setup button. 2. Use the left/right arrows to move until LAMBDA is displayed. nm 3. Use the up/down arrows to move until Add is displayed . 4. Press ENTER. A wavelength will be suggested and the first digit will flash. 5. Use the up/down arrows to change the flashing digit and the left/right arrows to activate the next digit. 6. Once all digits are set, press ENTER. 7.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Managing the Wavelength Shortlist To delete a wavelength from the shortlist: 1. Press the Setup button. 2. Press the left/right arrows until LAMBDA is displayed. 3. Use up/down arrows to move until the wavelength you want to delete appears in the lower portion of the display. 4. Press ENTER. The wavelength will start flashing. 5. Set all the wavelength digits to zero.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Selecting the Attenuation Selecting the Attenuation The attenuation can be set using two methods: By using the up and down arrows buttons, the attenuation is modified one step (up or down) at a time. By using the Attenuation button, you can quickly and precisely set the attenuation to a specific value The available step sizes are: 0.01, 0.02, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 dB.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Selecting the Attenuation To enter a specific attenuation value: 1. Press the Attenuation button. The first segment of the attenuation setting starts flashing. Attenuation setting dB Abs nm Current wavelength 2. Enter a new attenuation value. Use the up/down arrows to change the flashing digit and the left/right arrows to activate the next digit. Note: The difference with the current attenuation must be of at least 0.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Selecting the Attenuation To set the minimum attenuation: 1. Select a wavelength, by pressing until you reach the desired wavelength. FVA-3150 VARIABLE ATTENUATOR Program ENTER Setup Step Abs Offset Up Shutter Ref Down Attenuation Wavelength control In Monitor Out Attenuation Absolute mode access 2. Press the Abs button. 3. Press the Attenuation button and set an attenuation of 00.000 dB. 4. Press ENTER.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Selecting the Attenuation To set the maximum attenuation: 1. Select a wavelength by pressing until you reach the desired wavelength. 2. Press the Abs button. 3. Press the Attenuation button and set an attenuation of -99.999 dB. 4. Press ENTER. The Variable Attenuator will default to the maximum attenuation.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Selecting and Using an Attenuation Display Mode Selecting and Using an Attenuation Display Mode Note: The total or absolute attenuation referred to in this manual is the actual optical insertion loss between the input and output ports, including the connectors.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Selecting and Using an Attenuation Display Mode Display Mode Description Offset (X + B) The displayed attenuation is the sum of two components: X = physical attenuation introduced by the unit. B = correction factor or offset; it may be used to compensate for losses along the connecting fibers or for losses displaying the attenuation as a power value.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Selecting and Using an Attenuation Display Mode To set Absolute attenuation mode: Press the Abs button at any time to enable Absolute mode. Absolute attenuation dB Abs nm Wavelength In Offset mode, the offset value is always displayed in the lower portion of the display while the upper portion (large digits) displays the sum of two values. Before enabling the Offset mode, it is necessary to define the appropriate offset value for the operating wavelength.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Selecting and Using an Attenuation Display Mode To define an offset value for a specific wavelength: 1. Set the Variable Attenuator to the appropriate wavelength. 2. Select Setup. 3. Press the left/right arrows until OFFSET is displayed. dBm Current offset value for the selected wavelength 4. Press ENTER. The first segment of the current offset value will start flashing. 5. Enter a new offset.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Selecting and Using an Attenuation Display Mode To use the offset mode: 1. Ensure that the display is in Absolute mode (select Abs). 2. Select the appropriate wavelength by pressing until you reach the desired wavelength. 3. If necessary, set an offset value. 4. Select Offset. The display will switch to Offset mode. Note: The offset value can be modified while Offset mode is active. Offset attenuation (actual attenuation is -6.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Selecting and Using an Attenuation Display Mode Any value within the attenuation range may be selected as the reference. When Reference mode is enabled (by selecting Ref): the current absolute attenuation setting becomes the reference value and appears in the lower portion of the display; and 0.000 dB (relative attenuation) is displayed in the upper portion of the display.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Selecting and Using an Attenuation Display Mode To use the Reference mode: 1. Ensure that the display is in Absolute mode (select Abs). FVA-3150 VARIABLE ATTENUATOR Program ENTER Setup Step Abs Offset Up Shutter Ref Down Attenuation In Monitor Out Absolute mode access Reference mode access 2. Select the appropriate wavelength. 3. Set the attenuation to the desired reference value. 4. Press the Ref. button.The display will switch to Reference mode.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Saving and Recalling a Configuration Saving and Recalling a Configuration Once the Variable Attenuator has been customized for a specific application or user, it is possible to save the configuration. Saved parameters are: current wavelength and attenuation display mode step size shortlisted wavelengths each wavelength offset programmed attenuation routine settings Up to ten configurations can be saved and recalled.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Saving and Recalling a Configuration To save a configuration: 1. Customize the Variable Attenuator as required. 2. Press the Setup button. 3. Press the left/right arrows until SAVE is displayed. Configuration number 4. Press ENTER. The configuration number will start flashing. 5. Press the up/down arrows to modify the configuration number. 6. Press ENTER. 7. Press the Setup button to exit the menu.
Setting Up Your Variable Attenuator Saving and Recalling a Configuration To recall a configuration: 1. Press the Setup button. 2. Press the left/right arrows until RECALL is displayed. Configuration number 3. Press ENTER. The configuration number (bottom of the screen) will start flashing. 4. Use the up/down arrows to select the number of the configuration you want to recall. 5. Press ENTER. 6. To exit the Setup menu, press the Setup button.
5 Operating Your Variable Attenuator Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers IMPORTANT To ensure maximum power and to avoid erroneous readings: Always inspect fiber ends and make sure that they are clean as explained below before inserting them into the port. EXFO is not responsible for damage or errors caused by bad fiber cleaning or handling. Ensure that your patchcord has appropriate connectors. Joining mismatched connectors will damage the ferrules.
Operating Your Variable Attenuator Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers 3. Carefully align the connector and port to prevent the fiber end from touching the outside of the port or rubbing against other surfaces. If your connector features a key, ensure that it is fully fitted into the port’s corresponding notch. 4. Push the connector in so that the fiber-optic cable is firmly in place, thus ensuring adequate contact.
Operating Your Variable Attenuator Installing the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI) Installing the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI) The EUI fixed baseplate is available for connectors with angled (APC) or non-angled (UPC) polishing. A green border around the baseplate indicates that it is for APC-type connectors. Green border indicates APC option Bare metal (or blue border) indicates UPC option To install an EUI connector adapter onto the EUI baseplate: 1.
Operating Your Variable Attenuator Performing an Attenuation Routine Performing an Attenuation Routine You can program the FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator to perform an attenuation routine. Once the routine is started, the variable attenuator will automatically increase or decrease the inserted attenuation (by steps), return to the initial attenuation state, and perform the routine again until you stop it.
Operating Your Variable Attenuator Performing an Attenuation Routine Switch to –11 dB attenuation for 10 seconds (step 1) Switch to –12 dB attenuation for 10 seconds (step 2) Switch to –13 dB attenuation for 10 seconds (step 3), and Return to the initial attenuation state (-10 dB) for 10 seconds (step 0) and repeat the routine until you stop it To program the attenuation routine: 1. Press the Program button. 2. Press ENTER. The first digit will start flashing.
Operating Your Variable Attenuator Performing an Attenuation Routine 3. If you do not want the routine to be delayed, leave the delay at 000.00.00. 4. Once the delay is set, press ENTER. Hours Minutes Seconds 5. Select the duration (time for which the Variable Attenuator will remain at each step). Press the right arrow. 6. Press ENTER. The first digit will start flashing. Use the up/down arrows to change the flashing digit and the left/right arrows to activate the next digit. 7.
Operating Your Variable Attenuator Performing an Attenuation Routine 9. Press ENTER. The first digit will start flashing. Use the up/down arrows to change the flashing digit and the left/right arrows to activate the next digit. 10. Once the number of steps is set, press ENTER. 11. Press the right arrow. To set the attenuation difference between the steps. dB 12. Press ENTER. The first segment will start flashing.
Operating Your Variable Attenuator Performing an Attenuation Routine To start a routine: 1. Set the wavelength by pressing until you reach the desired wavelength. 2. Set the Variable Attenuator to the initial attenuation. 3. Press Program. Program menu access FVA-3150 VARIABLE ATTENUATOR Program ENTER Setup Step Abs Offset Up Shutter Ref Down Attenuation In Monitor Out Wavelength control 4. Press left/right arrows until START is displayed. 5. Press ENTER.
Operating Your Variable Attenuator Performing an Attenuation Routine To know... perform the following steps how much time is left in the delay Press Program how much time is left in the current step Press Program Press the left/right arrows until DELAY is displayed. Press the left/rigth arrows until DURATION is displayed. how many steps are Press Program left in the current Press the left/rigth arrows until STEP is displayed. routine To stop the attenuation routine: 1. Press Program. 2.
Operating Your Variable Attenuator Operating the Shutter Operating the Shutter The optical shutter is an electro-mechanical device which, when activated, totally blocks light transmission. To block light transmission: Use the Shutter button to turn the shutter on or off. When the shutter is activated, Shutter On appears in the lower right portion of the display.
6 Controlling Your Variable Attenuator Remotely The FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator can be remotely controlled either by: a GPIB interface (through a GPIB cable connected to the GPIB port), or an RS-232 interface (through a serial cable connected to the serial port) The commands used in both protocols are the same and are described in the following pages. When the Variable Attenuator is being remotely controlled, Remote appears in the lower left corner of the display.
Controlling Your Variable Attenuator Remotely Setting Up the Variable Attenuator for Remote Control To select remote command mode: GPIB setting GPIB address 1. If you have select GPIB-RS as a command mode, you only need to set the address. 2. If you want to select the RS-232 mode, press ENTER. RS-232 setting 3. Use the up and down arrows to reach RS-232 (before setting GPIB address 1 or GPIB address 30). 4. Press ENTER. 5. To exit the Setup menu, press the Setup button.
Controlling Your Variable Attenuator Remotely Setting Up the Variable Attenuator for Remote Control To select a GPIB address: 1. Once you selected GPIB as a command mode, you can set the GPIB address you want. 2. Press ENTER. The bottom part of the displays will start flashing. 3. Using the up and down arrows, select the GPIB address you want.
Controlling Your Variable Attenuator Remotely Communication Parameters Communication Parameters Note: EOS means End of String. EOI means End or Identify.
Controlling Your Variable Attenuator Remotely Standard Status Data Structure Standard Status Data Structure The following page illustrates the four common status and enable registers as defined by IEEE 488.2. This diagram is a useful aid in understanding the general commands and how a service request (SRQ) is generated.
Controlling Your Variable Attenuator Remotely Standard Status Data Structure PON URQ CME EXE DDE QYE RQC OPC 7 & 6 & 5 & OR 7 6 5 4 & 4 3 & 3 2 & 2 1 & 1 0 Standard Event Status Register (ESR) & 0 PON URQ CME EXE DDE QYE RQC OPC Standard Event Status Enable Register (ESE) Output Queue not Empty read by serial poll RQS { Service Request Generation ESB MAV 7 6 5 4 EB 3 2 1 0 MSS Status Byte Register (STB) read by *STB? & & OR { 50 7 5 & 4 ESB MAV & 3 & 2
Controlling Your Variable Attenuator Remotely Command Structure An SRQ is forced when a bit is set in the STB and at the same time the corresponding SRE bit is set. When the SRQ is generated, the RQS bit is set to 1 and remains set until read by a serial poll. Once the RQS is read, it returns to 0. Command Structure The GPIB and RS-232 commands follow the guidelines determined by the Standard Commands for Programmable Interface (SCPI) consortium.
Controlling Your Variable Attenuator Remotely Error Messages Error Messages System and device-specific errors are managed by the FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator. The generic format for error messages is illustrated in the following figure. , “ ; “ As shown in the above figure, the message contains three parts: the error number, error description, and device-dependent information. All error messages are stacked in a FIFO buffer.
Controlling Your Variable Attenuator Remotely SCPI Management Errors (System Errors) SCPI Management Errors (System Errors) Error Number Description Probable Cause –100 “Command Error.” An error occurred while validating a command. –101 “Undefined Header.” Unknown command. –102 “Missing Parameter.” A command parameter is missing. –103 “Parameter Not Allowed.” An extra parameter is present. –104 “Data Type Error.” Invalid parameter format. –200 “Execution Error.
Controlling Your Variable Attenuator Remotely RS-232 Connector Pinout Error Number Description Probable Cause –300 “Invalid Program Step.” The entered program step parameter is out of range. –300 “Invalid Program Attenuation.” The entered program attenuation parameter is out of range. –300 “Invalid CAL Factor.” The entered calibration factor parameter is out of range. –400 “Query Error.” An error occurred while accessing the output queue. –500 “System Error.” System is out of memory.
7 Maintenance To help ensure long, trouble-free operation: Always inspect fiber-optic connectors before using them and clean them if necessary. Keep the unit free of dust. Clean the unit casing and front panel with a cloth slightly dampened with water. Store unit at room temperature in a clean and dry area. Keep the unit out of direct sunlight. Avoid high humidity or significant temperature fluctuations. Avoid unnecessary shocks and vibrations.
Maintenance Cleaning EUI Connectors Cleaning EUI Connectors Regular cleaning of EUI connectors will help maintain optimum performance. There is no need to disassemble the unit. IMPORTANT If any damage occurs to internal connectors, the module casing will have to be opened and a new calibration will be required. To clean EUI connectors: 1. Remove the EUI from the instrument to expose the connector baseplate and ferrule. Turn Pull Push 2. Moisten a 2.
Maintenance Cleaning EUI Connectors 5. Repeat steps 3 to 4 with a dry cleaning tip. Note: Make sure you don’t touch the soft end of the cleaning tip. 6. Clean the ferrule in the connector port as follows: 6a. Deposit one drop of isopropyl alcohol on a lint-free wiping cloth. IMPORTANT Isopropyl alcohol may leave residues if used abundantly or left to evaporate (about 10 seconds). Avoid contact between the tip of the bottle and the wiping cloth, and dry the surface quickly. 6b.
Maintenance Cleaning Detector Ports Cleaning Detector Ports Regular cleaning of detectors will help maintain measurement accuracy. IMPORTANT Always cover detectors with protective caps when unit is not in use. To clean detector ports: 1. Remove the protective cap and adapter (FOA) from the detector. 2. If the detector is dusty, blow dry with compressed air. 3. Being careful not to touch the soft end of the swab, moisten a cleaning tip with only one drop of isopropyl alcohol.
Maintenance Recalibrating the Unit Recalibrating the Unit Manufacturing and service center calibrations are based on the ISO/IEC 17025 Standard, which states that calibration documents must not contain a recommended calibration interval, unless this has been previously agreed upon with the customer. Validity of specifications depends on operating conditions.
Maintenance Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only) Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only) Recycle or dispose of your product (including electric and electronic accessories) properly, in accordance with local regulations. Do not dispose of it in ordinary garbage receptacles. This equipment was sold after August 13, 2005 (as identified by the black rectangle).
8 Troubleshooting Contacting the Technical Support Group To obtain after-sales service or technical support for this product, contact EXFO at one of the following numbers. The Technical Support Group is available to take your calls from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Eastern Time in North America). For detailed information about technical support, visit the EXFO Web site at www.exfo.com. Technical Support Group 400 Godin Avenue Quebec (Quebec) G1M 2K2 CANADA 1 866 683-0155 (USA and Canada) Tel.
Troubleshooting Transportation Transportation Maintain a temperature range within specifications when transporting the unit. Transportation damage can occur from improper handling. The following steps are recommended to minimize the possibility of damage: 62 Pack the unit in its original packing material when shipping. Avoid high humidity or large temperature fluctuations. Keep the unit out of direct sunlight. Avoid unnecessary shocks and vibrations.
9 Warranty General Information EXFO Inc. (EXFO) warrants this equipment against defects in material and workmanship for a period oftwo years from the date of original shipment. EXFO also warrants that this equipment will meet applicable specifications under normal use.
Warranty Liability Liability EXFO shall not be liable for damages resulting from the use of the product, nor shall be responsible for any failure in the performance of other items to which the product is connected or the operation of any system of which the product may be a part. EXFO shall not be liable for damages resulting from improper usage or unauthorized modification of the product, its accompanying accessories and software.
Warranty Exclusions Exclusions EXFO reserves the right to make changes in the design or construction of any of its products at any time without incurring obligation to make any changes whatsoever on units purchased. Accessories, including but not limited to fuses, pilot lamps, batteries and universal interfaces (EUI) used with EXFO products are not covered by this warranty.
Warranty Service and Repairs Service and Repairs EXFO commits to providing product service and repair for five years following the date of purchase. To send any equipment for service or repair: 1. Call one of EXFO’s authorized service centers (see EXFO Service Centers Worldwide on page 67). Support personnel will determine if the equipment requires service, repair, or calibration. 2.
Warranty EXFO Service Centers Worldwide EXFO Service Centers Worldwide If your product requires servicing, contact your nearest authorized service center. EXFO Headquarters Service Center 400 Godin Avenue Quebec (Quebec) G1M 2K2 CANADA EXFO Europe Service Center Omega Enterprise Park, Electron Way Chandlers Ford, Hampshire S053 4SE ENGLAND EXFO Telecom Equipment (Shenzhen) Ltd. 3rd Floor, Building 10, Yu Sheng Industrial Park (Gu Shu Crossing), No.
A Technical Specifications IMPORTANT The following technical specifications can change without notice. The information presented in this section is provided as a reference only. To obtain this product’s most recent technical specifications, visit the EXFO Web site at www.exfo.com.
Technical Specifications GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS Size (H X W X D) Weight Temperature Operating Storage Relative humidity 117 mm X 222 mm X 333 mm 2.6 kg 0 °C to 40 °C –40 °C to 70 °C 0 % to 80 % non-condensing (4 5/8 in X 8 3/4 in X 13 1/8 in) (5.8 lb) (32 °F to 122 °F) (–40 °F to 158 °F) Instrument Drivers LabVIEW™ drivers and SCPI commands. Remote Control GPIB (IEEE-488.1, IEEE-488.2), RS-232. Standard Accessories User guide, Certificate of Compliance, Certificate of Calibration and AC power cord.
B Remote Control Commands IEEE 488.2 Required Commands The Variable Attenuator recognizes the main commands identified in IEEE-488.2. These commands are fully explained on the following pages. .
Remote Control Commands IEEE 488.2 Required Commands *CLS Description This command sets the contents of the Standard Event Register (ESR), the Status Byte Register (STB), and the Error Queue (ERR) to zero. This command is commonly used to clear the status registers before enabling SRQ. Note that the output queue, Standard Event Status Enable Register (ESE), and Service Request Enable Register (SRE) are not affected. Syntax *CLS Note The CLR command is equivalent to the *CLS command.
Remote Control Commands IEEE 488.2 Required Commands *ESR? Description This query reads the contents of the Standard Event Register. Syntax *ESR? Response Binary integer with a value between 0 and 255. *IDN? Description This query reads the FVA-3150 identification string. Syntax *IDN? Response “EXFO FVA-3150-XX-XX x.x.x.x”, where XX-XX is the current product model and x.x.x.x is the current product version. Note The SYST:VERS? and IDN? commands are equivalent to the *IDN? command.
Remote Control Commands IEEE 488.2 Required Commands *OPC? Description This query puts an ASCII 1 in the output queue when the contents of the input queue has been processed. Syntax *OPC? Response “1” Note The OPC? command is equivalent to the *OPC? command. Both give the same result. *RST Description This command empties the step response list. It is only seen when it is part of another multiple command.
Remote Control Commands IEEE 488.2 Required Commands *SRE Description This command sets bits in the Service Request Enable Register (default value is 255) and enables the corresponding bit in the Status Register. The command can be used to select which events can initiate a service request. Syntax *SRE Parameter The parameter must be between 0 and 255. *SRE? Description This query returns the contents of the Service Request Enable Register.
Remote Control Commands IEEE 488.2 Required Commands *TRG Description This command will trigger any event that was suspended and is waiting for a trigger. Syntax *TRG Parameters None Note This command has no effect on the FVA-3150. *TST? Description This query initiates an internal self-test and returns a binary value indicating the results of the test.
Remote Control Commands IEEE 488.2 Required Commands The FVA-3150 Variable Attenuator also recognizes commands that can only be used with RS-232 communication. These commands are summarized below. Command Function *LOK Set Remote Lockout programming state *LOK? Remote Lockout programming state query *LOK Description This command is used to lock and unlock the FVA-3150 keypad. Once the FVA-3150 keypad is locked, no external input can interfere with the GPIB communication.
Remote Control Commands IEEE 488.2 Required Commands *LOK? Description This query reads the FVA-3150 keypad lock state. Syntax *LOK? Response “1” if the FVA-3150 keypad is locked “0” if the FVA-3150 keypad is unlocked 78 Example *LOK? Note This command can only be used when working with RS-232 communication.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree Parameter/ Response Command Description ATTa, <±99.999 [DB] | MIN|MAX> set attenuation ATT? (± 99.999) obtain attenuation CALa, <±99.999> set offset CAL? (± 99.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree Parameter/ Response Command STEP? 0.01 set wavelength WAVE ? (9999.9) obtain wavelength set Absolute or Reference APM? (0|1) is it in Absolute mode? [STAT] activate shutter [STAT] ? (0|1) obtain shutter state ±99.999 set atten.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree ATTenuation Description This command sets the attenuation to a specific value. The valid range of values depends on the configuration of the FVA-3150 and on the current wavelength. The difference with the current attenuation must be of at least 0.002 dB for the new attenuation step size to be valid.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree Parameters The parameter can be “MIN” (to set the FVA-3150 to the minimum setting for the current wavelength) “MAX” (to set the FVA-3150 to the maximum setting for the current wavelength) a valid attenuation value followed by the units [DB]. Note that, depending on the current measurement mode, the parameter takes different values.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree ATTenuation? Description This query returns a value corresponding to the CAL parameter value added to either the current attenuation setting, the minimum attenuation, or the maximum attenuation setting.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree CAL Description This command stores an offset value that will be applied to all wavelengths in Absolute, Reference, and Offset modes. This offset value will be included in the measurement returned by ATT? but will not be taken into account on the FVA-3150 display. This offset value is deleted when the FVA-3150 is turned off.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree D Description This command controls the shutter, which can block optical continuity. Syntax D Parameters The parameter can be “0” to disable the shutter “1” to enable the shutter Example D1 Note This command cannot be issued while a program is running. D? Description This query returns the current shutter state.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree DISPlay:DIMMer Description This command is used to adjust the intensity of the FVA-3150 display (high or low) or to turn off the display without turning off the unit. Syntax DISP:DIMM Parameters The parameter can be “HI”, “LO”, or “OFF”. Example DISP:DIMM OFF Note When the display is turned off by this command, any key pressed on the FVA-3150 keypad will return the display to high intensity.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree Fiber Description This command specifies the type of fiber tested (singlemode or multimode). Syntax F Parameters The parameter can be “1” to specify singlemode fiber “2” to specify multimode fiber Example F1 Note This command has no effect on the FVA-3150. The FVA-3150 is designed to test either singlemode or multimode fiber but not both.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree INPut:ATTenuation Description This command sets the attenuation to a specific value. The valid range of values depends on the configuration of the FVA-3150 and on the current wavelength. The difference with the current attenuation must be of at least 0.002 dB for the new attenuation step size to be valid.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree Parameters The parameter can be “MIN” (to set the FVA-3150 to the minimum setting for the current wavelength) “MAX” (to set the FVA-3150 to the maximum setting for the current wavelength) a valid attenuation value followed by the units [DB]. Note that, depending on the current measurement mode, the parameter takes different values.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree INPut:ATTenuation? Description This query returns a value indicating the current attenuation setting OR the minimum/maximum attenuation setting. Syntax INP:ATT? [] Parameters The parameter is optional and can be “MIN” to obtain the minimum setting for the current wavelength “MAX” to obtain the maximum setting for the current wavelength Response The attenuation value in the format “999.99”. The units are dB.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree INPut:OFFSet Description This command stores a reference value for the current wavelength and sets the FVA-3150 to Reference mode. In Reference mode, the displayed attenuation is relative to this reference value. A different reference value must be stored for every wavelength. The reference values remain in memory until they are overwritten.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree INPut:OFFSet? Description This query returns the current reference value for the current wavelength. Syntax INP:OFFS? Response The current reference in the format “99.999”. The units are dB. Example INP:OFFS? INPut:STEP Description This command is used to set the size of the step between two attenuation settings. Use the INP:STEP:CATA? query to obtain the list of available step sizes.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree INPut:STEP? Description This command is used to obtain the current step size between two attenuation settings. Syntax INP:STEP? Response The current step size in the format “0.02”. Example INP:STEP? INPut:STEP:CATAlog? Description This query returns the list of available step sizes between two attenuation settings. Use this command to determine the maximum resolution of the attenuation or reflection setting.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree INPut:WAVElength Description This command selects a specific calibrated wavelength. The wavelength range depends on the type and configuration of the FVA-3150. Syntax INP:WAVE[] Parameters The parameter is the actual wavelength in the format “9999.9 NM”. The units are optional. Example INP:WAVE 1310 NM Note This command cannot be issued while a program is running.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree OUTPut:APMode Description This command selects Absolute or Reference attenuation mode. When Absolute mode is selected, the Absolute attenuation introduced by the FVA-3150 is displayed. When Reference mode is selected, the current absolute attenuation is set as the reference value, and then the displayed attenuation is relative to the reference.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree OUTPut[:STATe] Description This command controls the shutter, which can block optical continuity. Syntax OUTP[:STAT] Parameters The parameter can be “0” or “OFF” to optically enable the shutter “1” or “ON” to optically disable the shutter Example OUTP:STAT ON Note This command cannot be issued while a program is running. OUTPut[:STATe]? Description This query returns the state of the shutter.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree PROGram:SELected:ATTenuation Description This command changes the attenuation parameter for the attenuation program. Syntax PROG:SEL:ATT[] Parameters The parameter is the difference in attenuation between each step in the program (maximum 99.999 dB). The units are optional. Example PROG:SEL:ATT 3 Note This command cannot be issued while a program is running.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree PROGram:SELected:DURAtion Description This command changes the duration parameter for the attenuation program. Syntax PROG:SEL:DURA Parameters The parameter is the time that the FVA-3150 remains at each attenuation step. This value has the following format: “999,59,59” (hours,minutes,seconds). Example PROG:SEL:DURA 000,10,00 Note This command cannot be issued while a program is running.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree PROGram:SELected:STATe? Description This query returns a value indicating the status of the loaded program. Syntax PROG:SEL:STAT? Response “0”: the program is stopped “1”: the program is in progress Example PROG:SEL:STAT? PROGram:SELected:STEP Description This command changes the number of steps parameter for the attenuation program.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree WaVeLength Description This command selects a specific calibrated wavelength. The wavelength range depends on the type and configuration of the FVA-3150. Syntax WVL[] Parameters The parameter is the actual wavelength in the format “9999.9[NM]”. The units are optional. Example WVL 1310 NM Note This command cannot be issued while a program is running.
Remote Control Commands Specific commands-Quick Reference Command Tree SYSTem:ERRor? Description This command returns the next error on the list. The commands ERR? and LERR? give the same result. When an error is generated, an error number is sent to the error list. The error list can be accessed with the commands SYST:ERR?, ERR?, or LERR?. Syntax SYST:ERR? Response See error list and descriptions in Error Messages on page 52.
Index Index A AC requirements ......................................... 10 after-sales service ........................................ 61 arrow buttons ............................................... 2 attenuation display modes........................................ 24 entering a specific value ........................ 21 method of measurement ......................... 5 range ..................................................... 21 setting ...................................................
Index DTE pinout configuration ............................ 54 duration of the attenuation routine ............ 38 intensity of the display ................................ 15 IQ Series ...................................................... 45 E K entering a different step size ............................... 20 an offset value....................................... 27 EOI (End or Identify).................................... 48 EOS (End of String) .....................................
Index P S pinout configuration ................................... 54 port input........................................................ 2 output ..................................................... 2 power cable........................................................ 8 on/off .................................................... 13 plug ......................................................... 8 power source, AC ........................................ 10 product identification label....................
Index T technical specifications ............................... 69 technical support ........................................ 61 temperature for storage.............................. 55 transportation requirements ................. 55, 62 turning FVA-3150 on/off ............................. 14 type of fuses ................................................. 9 typical applications component and system loss simulation ... 4 EDFA characterization.............................. 4 instrument calibration .......
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