The Newport/New Focus 1580 is a 12-GHz amplified photoreceiver that converts optical signals into electrical signals for high-speed test and measurement applications. Built around a GaAs PIN photodiode with 0.4 A/W peak responsivity, it delivers clean amplification across the 780–870 nm wavelength band with minimal signal distortion. The device accepts 62.5 µm multimode fiber (and smaller cores, including single-mode) via FC/UPC connector and outputs on a Wiltron K connector at 50 Ω impedance. Its 32 ps rise time and low noise floor (42 pW/√Hz NEP) make it ideal for digital communication characterization and time-domain analysis of 10-Gbit/s components. The integrated high-speed amplifier features an inverting topology with maximum transimpedance gain of −1000 V/A and −450 V/W conversion gain. A dedicated DC bias monitor output (SMA connector, 50 kHz bandwidth, 1 V/mA gain) enables real-time photodiode current observation. The 1580 operates from ±15 VDC at 200 mA and saturates at 1.5 mW optical input. Bandwidth spans DC to 12 GHz (or 10 kHz to 12 GHz depending on variant). Its compact form factor minimizes cable losses and integrates directly into laboratory benches and automated test systems.
Technical Specifications
• Detector: GaAs PIN photodiode
• Wavelength Range: 780–870 nm
• Bandwidth: DC to 12 GHz
• Rise Time: 32 ps
• Peak Responsivity: 0.4 A/W
• Maximum Transimpedance Gain: −1000 V/A
• Maximum Conversion Gain: −450 V/W
• Noise Equivalent Power: 42 pW/√Hz
• Saturation Power: 1.5 mW
• Output Impedance: 50 Ω
• DC Bias Monitor Gain: 1 V/mA
• DC Bias Monitor Bandwidth: 50 kHz
• Power Supply: ±15 VDC, 200 mA
– Key Features
• Accepts 62.5 µm multimode fiber and single-mode fibers via FC/UPC connector
• Inverting amplifier design with controlled impulse response and minimal ringing
• Integrated DC bias monitor for photodiode current tracking
• 50 Ω electrical output on Wiltron K connector
• DC bias monitor output on SMA connector (10 kΩ impedance)
– Typical Applications
• Digital communication signal characterization
• Time-domain measurement of high-speed optical components
• 10-Gbit/s system testing
– Compatibility & Integration
The 1580 requires an external power supply such as the New Focus Model 0901 Lab Power Supply. Use proper ESD precautions and avoid over-torquing connectors.
