The Ando AQ8203 is a 3-slot optical mainframe designed to house and control Ando AQ8201 and AQ8202 series plug-in modules. This half-width 19-inch rack-mountable system delivers a compact yet flexible platform for optical component testing in R&D, production, and field environments. The integrated controller features an STN color LCD display, operation switches, and rotary knob adjustment for direct module control, while IEEE-488.2 GPIB compatibility enables remote system integration and automation.
## Technical Specifications
**Mainframe Architecture**
• Model: Ando AQ8203
• Type: 3-Slot Optical Mainframe (Half-width Frame)
• Module Capacity: 3 slots per mainframe
• Expandability: Supports up to 43 modules via connection to AQ8202 Expander Frame
• Rack Configuration: Half-width of standard 19-inch rack; suitable for rack mounting or desktop deployment
**Control & Display**
• Display: STN color LCD with simultaneous 3-slot status monitoring (optical output, wavelength, attenuation)
• Built-in Controller: Integrated interface for module operation and parameter adjustment
• Interface: IEEE-488.2 GPIB for remote control; serial interface for AQ8202 connection
• Connectors: VGA D-sub 15-pin (display output), PS/2 DIN 6-pin (keyboard), DC/LED interface (AQ8201-02 Display Controller)
## Key Features
• Direct module control via operation switches and rotary knob adjustment
• Function key menu system for module configuration
• Simultaneous multi-slot optical parameter display and control
• Modular architecture supports diverse optical test configurations
## Typical Applications
The AQ8203 accommodates a broad range of Ando optical modules:
• Light sources: WDM DFB-LD (1 slot), ASE (2 slots), ECL (1 slot)
• Optical power meters: Single and dual-channel OPM modules (1 slot each)
• Variable optical attenuators: Single-slot ATTN modules
• Return loss measurement: RLM modules (1 slot)
• Optical switching and coupling: OSW and optical coupler modules
## Compatibility & Integration
Full compatibility with Ando AQ8201 and AQ8202 series modules enables flexible system configuration. GPIB remote control facilitates integration into automated test environments and multi-instrument setups.
