The Agilent/Keysight N7731A is a dual 1×4 fiberoptic switch delivering automated optical signal routing for component and module testing. Two independent 1×4 switches operate within a single 1U half-rack unit, providing stable, repeatable measurements across single-mode and multimode fiber systems. The instrument features fast switching times below 20 ms, insertion loss control, and exceptional crosstalk isolation, making it ideal for high-volume test automation of transceivers, amplifiers, and passive optical components.
Technical Specifications
Switch Configuration:
• Dual 1×4 optical switch (two independent channels)
• Switching time: 1 billion cycles
• Warm-up time: 20 minutes
• Recalibration interval: 24 months
Single-Mode Fiber (Option 009):
• Fiber type: 9/125 µm SMF
• Connector: FC/APC (angled, narrow key)
• Wavelength range: 1250 nm to 1650 nm
• Insertion loss: <2.0 dB (typically <1.5 dB)
• Polarization dependent loss: ~0.07 dB typical
• Return loss: ~55 dB typical
• Crosstalk: ~−65 dB typical
• Maximum input power: +23 dBm
• Repeatability: ±0.01 dB (±0.004 dB typical over 10,000 cycles)
Multimode Fiber (Option 062):
• Fiber type: 62.5/125 µm MMF (50/125 µm compatible)
• Connector: FC/PC (straight)
• Wavelength range: 600 nm to 1700 nm
• Insertion loss: <1.0 dB (typically <0.5 dB)
• Return loss: ~35 dB typical
• Crosstalk: ~−65 dB typical
• Maximum input power: +23 dBm
• Repeatability: ±0.01 dB (±0.004 dB typical over 10,000 cycles)
Physical & Environmental:
• Dimensions: 460 mm × 212 mm × 43 mm (1U half-rack)
• Weight: ~3 kg
• Operating temperature: +5 °C to +40 °C
• Operating humidity: 15% to 95% non-condensing
• Maximum altitude: 2000 m
• Power: 100–240 V AC ±10%, 50/60 Hz, 60 VA max
– Key Features
• High crosstalk isolation (−65 dB) ensures signal integrity in multi-port switching
• Low insertion loss and PDL (SMF) minimize measurement uncertainty
• Excellent repeatability (±0.004 dB typical) supports statistical process control
• Dual independent switches reduce test system complexity
– Typical Applications
• Automated transceiver characterization across wavelength bands
• Multi-channel amplifier and receiver testing
• Passive component validation (splitters, couplers, filters)
• Signal routing in optical test suites
– Compatibility & Integration
• Control interfaces: LAN, USB, GPIB
• VXI Plug&Play driver support
• Supports both angled (APC) and straight (PC) fiber connectors
