The Exfo FVA-3100-BW91 is a variable optical attenuator that delivers precise, repeatable control of optical signal power across wide wavelength ranges. It achieves attenuation up to 100 dB with 0.005 dB resolution and ultra-low insertion loss (typically 1.5 dB maximum), making it essential for EDFA characterization, component loss simulation, power meter linearity verification, and spectral tuning in optical communication systems.
## Technical Specifications
• **Attenuation:** ≥ 65 dB to ≥ 100 dB depending on model and wavelength
• **Attenuation Resolution:** 0.005 dB
• **Insertion Loss:** Typically 1.5 dB, maximum 1.8 dB
• **Linearity:** ± 0.1 dB
• **Spectral Uniformity:** ± 0.1 dB across WDM spectrum (BW option)
• **Return Loss:** > 55 dB (UPC connectors, singlemode); > 50 dB (APC connectors, singlemode)
• **Maximum Input Power:** 25 dBm
• **Wavelength Range:** 700 to 1350 nm or 1200 to 1650 nm
• **Wavelength Resolution:** 0.1 nm
## Key Features
• Supports 9/125 µm singlemode and 50/125 µm, 62.5/125 µm, 100/140 µm multimode fibers
• Programmable sequences up to 100 attenuation steps with dwell times to 1000 hours per step
• Three attenuation modes: Absolute, Relative, and X+B (reference-based)
• Front-panel manual control with user-defined steps and on-display value editing
• Optional monitor output (select models) for receiver-end power-level verification
• Remote control via GPIB (IEEE-488.1, IEEE-488.2) or RS-232
• LabVIEW drivers and OCX controls available
## Typical Applications
• EDFA characterization and optimization
• Component and system loss simulation
• Instrument calibration and verification
• Power meter linearity measurement
• Automated bit-error-rate (BER) testing
## Compatibility & Integration
Configurable for both singlemode and multimode fiber systems. Operates as a standalone instrument or mounts in 19-inch rack. Dimensions: 117 mm (H) × 222 mm (W) × 333 mm (D); weight 2.6 kg. Operating temperature 0 °C to 40 °C.
