The EXFO WA-1000 is a precision laser wavelength meter employing a scanning Michelson interferometer with built-in HeNe laser reference standard for absolute wavelength measurement of continuous wave (CW) sources. It delivers ± 1.0 ppm accuracy (± 0.001 nm at 1000 nm) for laser spectral bandwidth below 10 GHz FWHM, with automatic atmospheric correction via integrated temperature and pressure sensors.
## Technical Specifications
**Measurement Principle:** Scanning Michelson interferometer comparing input laser interference fringe pattern against internal HeNe reference (± 500 MHz or ± 1 ppm absolute accuracy).
**Wavelength Ranges (detector/beamsplitter selectable):**
• Visible (VIS): 400 nm to 1100 nm
• Near Infrared (NIR): 600 nm to 1800 nm
• Infrared (IR): 1500 nm to 4000 nm
**Display:** Nanometers (nm), wavenumbers (cm⁻¹), or frequency (GHz) in air or vacuum reference. Resolution: 0.001 nm / 0.001 cm⁻¹ / 0.1 GHz.
**Measurement Rate:** 4.0 Hz (VIS, NIR); 2.5 Hz (IR).
**Optical Input Sensitivity:**
• VIS/NIR: 20 µW minimum; 2 mW maximum
• IR: 1.0 mW minimum; 100 mW maximum
**Dynamic Range:** 400:1 with automatic attenuator (0–2 Optical Density).
**Environmental Compensation:** Continuous refractive index correction for air conditions.
## Key Features
• Built-in HeNe reference laser (Class 2, 633 nm, 1 mW max) enables continuous self-calibration
• Automatic intensity control across wide input power range
• Internal temperature and pressure sensors eliminate atmospheric measurement drift
• Multiple display units and resolution for research, manufacturing, and telecommunications workflows
## Typical Applications
Laser source characterization in telecommunications, research laboratories, and precision manufacturing environments requiring traceable absolute wavelength verification.
## Compatibility & Integration
**Interfaces:** RS-232 serial (standard); GPIB/IEEE-488 (optional).
**Inputs:** FC/PC fiber connector (FC/APC optional) for VIS/NIR; free-space beam input (2 mm aperture) with red alignment tracer.
**Outputs:** Analog monitor signal (fringes, timing) for oscilloscope display; ± 5 V analog output proportional to wavelength deviation from setpoint.
