The Ando AQ8202-418 is a 1×8 optical switch module engineered for multimode fiber routing and component characterization within the AQ8200 Series Optical Test and Measurement System. This single-input, eight-output switch delivers consistent insertion loss and high optical isolation across the C- and L-bands, making it essential for DWDM testing, MUX/DEMUX evaluation, and EDFA characterization in laboratory and manufacturing environments.
## Technical Specifications
• **Switch Configuration:** 1×8 (1 input, 8 outputs)
• **Fiber Type:** Multimode 62.5/125 µm
• **Connector Type:** FC/PC
• **Port Configuration:** 1 input bulkhead + 8 output bulkheads (front panel)
• **Wavelength Range:** 1480 nm to 1620 nm
• **Insertion Loss:** 1.5 dB or less
• **Return Loss:** 55 dB or greater
• **Repeatability:** ±0.02 dB
• **Optical Isolation:** 70 dB or greater
• **Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL):** 0.05 dB P-P (typ.)
## Key Features
• High return loss (≥55 dB) minimizes reflections and system contamination
• Low repeatability error (±0.02 dB) ensures consistent measurement fidelity across repeated switching cycles
• Excellent optical isolation (≥70 dB) prevents crosstalk between output ports
• Minimal PDL (0.05 dB P-P) preserves signal integrity for polarization-sensitive measurements
• Front-panel FC/PC connectors enable rapid module swap and field reconfiguration
## Typical Applications
• Component characterization in DWDM systems (MUX/DEMUX, AWG testing)
• Multimode fiber routing and optical signal distribution
• EDFA gain and noise figure evaluation
• Wavelength-dependent loss measurements across the 1480–1620 nm band
• Manufacturing test automation for telecom and datacom components
## Compatibility & Integration
The AQ8201-418 module integrates into AQ8200 Series frames and controllers. The AQ8202 Expander Frame accommodates up to 10 modules when connected to the AQ8202-01 System Controller. The AQ8203 Halfsize Frame supports up to 3 modules for bench-top applications. The system controller supports total capacity of 40 modules across multiple interconnected frames, enabling mixed-module configurations with light sources, attenuators, power meters, couplers, and additional switches.
