The Agilent 83438A is a broadband Erbium ASE source delivering incoherent light centered at 1550 nm for fiber-optic component characterization. It generates amplified spontaneous emission from an Erbium-doped fiber amplifier, providing high output power density suitable for testing moderate-to-high insertion loss devices. An integrated optical isolator protects the active fiber from back reflections, ensuring measurement stability. The angled contact output couples to 9/125 µm single-mode fiber and delivers output power between +5.5 dBm and +8.1 dBm with exceptional stability: ±0.02 dB over 15 minutes and ±0.05 dB over 6 hours. Spectral density exceeds –13 dBm/nm at 1530 nm, 1550 nm, and 1560 nm, while output return loss reaches >30 dB (>50 dB characteristic). A TTL-compatible modulation input supports on/off control and modulation up to 300 Hz, enabling lock-in techniques and dynamic testing. An optional high-polarization variant (Option 009) achieves >95% degree of polarization for applications requiring polarization-dependent measurements.
Technical Specifications
• Wavelength: 1550 nm (centered)
• Output Power: +5.5 dBm to +8.1 dBm
• Power Stability: ±0.02 dB (15 minutes); ±0.05 dB (6 hours)
• Spectral Density: >–13 dBm/nm at 1530 nm, 1550 nm, 1560 nm
• Output Return Loss: >30 dB (>50 dB characteristic)
• Degree of Polarization: 95% with Option 009
• Modulation Input: TTL compatible, DC to 300 Hz
• Fiber Compatibility: 9/125 µm single-mode
• Dimensions: 4.0 × 8.4 × 17.7 inches
• Weight: 10 lbs
– Key Features
• Erbium-doped fiber amplifier architecture delivers superior power density versus LED or white light sources
• Integrated optical isolator prevents back-reflection degradation and enhances stability
• Angled contact output reduces back reflections at the fiber interface
• Low-frequency modulation capability supports lock-in detection and time-domain measurements
• Optional high-polarization configuration for polarization-sensitive component testing
– Typical Applications
• Dense wavelength-division multiplexing (DWDM) system characterization
• Isolator, circulator, and demultiplexer testing
• Add/drop multiplexer evaluation
• Grating and filter characterization
• Optical amplifier qualification
– Compatibility & Integration
Outputs to 9/125 µm single-mode fiber via angled contact connector. TTL modulation input allows integration with lock-in amplifiers and automated test systems. Agilent 81000xI Series optical interface connectors are available as separate items.
