The EXFO IQ-203 Optical Test System is a modular platform for laboratory and manufacturing fiber-optic characterization. This configuration combines the IQ-203 mainframe with three core modules: the IQ-2100 light source for stable wavelength-selectable output, the IQ-5100 polarization controller for signal state manipulation, and the IQ-3400B PDL/OL meter for precision loss and polarization measurements. The system houses up to three modules in the mainframe with expandability to 27 total modules via IQ-206 expansion units. Windows-compatible software provides manual and automated measurement control, data analysis, and reporting capabilities.
Technical Specifications
IQ-2100 Light Source
• Operating wavelengths: 850 nm, 1300 nm, 1310 nm, 1550 nm
• Output power adjustment: 10 dB range (6 dB for LED sources) in 0.1 dB increments
• Modulation frequencies: 270 Hz, 1 kHz, 2 kHz
• Stability (Fabry-Perot TEC lasers): ±0.003 dB over 15 minutes; ±0.03 dB over 8 hours
IQ-3400B PDL/OL Meter
• Measurement resolution: 0.001 dB
• Measurement capabilities: PDL, insertion loss, optical return loss, excess loss, coupling ratio, polarization-dependent coupling ratio
System Architecture
• IQ-203 mainframe: accommodates up to three single-slot modules
• IQ-206 expansion unit: houses up to six modules
• Maximum configuration: 27 total modules
– Key Features
• Thermo-electric cooled laser sources for wavelength stabilization
• IQ-5100 polarization controller supports manual and random scanning modes
• Local and remote control capability
• PC-based architecture with Pentium MMX microprocessor
• Flexible component characterization via scanning methodology
• Connector loss detection including ORL-induced losses from scratched connectors
– Typical Applications
• Fiber-optic component characterization in laboratory environments
• Manufacturing quality assurance and testing workflows
• Polarization-dependent loss assessment
• Insertion loss and optical return loss measurements
– Compatibility & Integration
System operates with Windows-compatible software for both manual and automated measurement workflows. Modular architecture allows independent control of expansion units via IQ-206 PC expansion card or direct IQ-203 mainframe control.
