The EXFO IQ-203 Optical Test System is a modular, PC-based platform combining a mainframe chassis with plug-in test modules for automated optical characterization and fiber routing. This configuration includes the IQ-3100 variable attenuator and IQ-9100 optical switch modules, delivering precision attenuation control across the extended C- and L-bands and flexible signal routing for complex test scenarios.
Technical Specifications
IQ-203 Mainframe
• PC-based architecture with Pentium MMX processor
• Holds up to 3 single-slot modules; expandable to 27 modules via four IQ-206 Expansion Units
• Windows environment with IQ-200 Optical Test System Software
• RS-232 communication; optional GPIB and Ethernet connectivity
• External power supply
IQ-3100 Variable Attenuator Module
• Singlemode fiber (9/125 µm)
• Wavelength range: 1200 nm to 1650 nm with 0.1 nm resolution
• Maximum attenuation: ≥100 dB (1200–1350 nm), ≥80 dB (1350–1600 nm), 70 dB (1600–1650 nm)
• Insertion loss: 1.5 dB typical, 1.8 dB maximum
• Resolution: 0.005 dB with ±0.1 dB linearity and ±0.03 dB repeatability
• Return loss: ≥55 dB typical
• Maximum input power: +25 dBm
• Spectral uniformity: ±0.1 dB across 1520–1570 nm
• Up to 100 attenuation steps with dwell times to 1000 hours per step
• Attenuation modes: Absolute, Relative, X+B
• FC narrow key connector
IQ-9100 Optical Switch Module
• Configurations: 1×2, 1×4, 1×8, 1×12, 1×16, 1×24, 1×32, 2×2, 2×4
• Singlemode (9/125 µm) and multimode versions available
• Insertion loss: ≤0.10 dB per module at 1310 nm, 1550 nm (singlemode) and 850 nm (multimode)
• Crosstalk: -80 dB maximum
• Switching time: 25 ms per channel plus 425 ms debouncing
• Programmable to 100 steps with dwell times to 100 hours
• APC Universal connectors (adapters sold separately)
• Minimal reflectance design
– Key Features
• Three-module mainframe expandable to 27 total modules for scalable test configurations
• Attenuation control with 0.005 dB resolution and ±0.03 dB repeatability across extended bands
• Multi-configuration optical switching from 1×2 to 1×32 and 2×2/2×4 topologies
• Step programming with extended dwell times for reliability and burn-in testing
• Dual fiber types support singlemode and multimode applications
– Typical Applications
• Multi-component and subsystem characterization
• Bidirectional and remote testing
• Signal routing and multichannel monitoring
• Automated attenuation profiling
• Ribbon-fiber testing
• Complex test sequences requiring sequential switching and attenuation
– Compatibility & Integration
The IQ-203 mainframe operates via Windows environment with RS-232 standard connectivity. GPIB and Ethernet interfaces are available as options. Singlemode modules use FC narrow key (IQ-3100) and APC Universal (IQ-9100) connectors. Multimode optical switch variants support 850 nm testing. System software is pre-installed and ready for operation.
