The Tektronix SD-44 Optical to Electrical Converter transforms optical signals into electrical signals for direct integration with Tektronix 11800 Series Digital Sampling Oscilloscopes and CSA 803 Communications Signal Analyzers. Purpose-built for high-speed optical characterization, this module delivers DC to 15 GHz bandwidth across the 950–1650 nm wavelength range, enabling time-domain and frequency-domain analysis of optical waveforms. Engineers working in fiber optics, telecommunications, and optoelectronic device testing rely on the SD-44 for precision signal acquisition and low-noise conversion.
Technical Specifications
• Bandwidth: DC to 15 GHz
• Optical Wavelength Range: 950–1650 nm
• Conversion Factor: ≥35 mV/mW at 1310 nm and 1550 nm
• Noise Equivalent Power (NEP): ≤15 pW/√Hz into 50 Ω
• Maximum Input Optical Power: ≤100 mW
• Optical Input Connector: FC/PC (standard); accommodates other connector types via hybrid fiber optic jumper cables or mating adapters
• Internal Fiber: 9 μm single-mode, 125 μm cladding; couples to optical fibers with core diameter up to 9 μm
• Electrical Output Connector: 3.5 mm
• Pulse Response Aberration: ≤10% peak-to-peak within first 400 ps following pulse input
– Key Features
• Direct installation into host instrument or remote operation via optional extender cables (1 meter or 2 meter options)
• Minimal noise floor enables detection of weak optical signals
• Wide optical wavelength coverage supports standard telecom bands and extended ranges
• Hybrid connector compatibility eliminates need for connector type conversion
– Typical Applications
• High-speed fiber optic signal analysis
• Optical telecommunications system characterization
• Optoelectronic device measurements
• Time-domain and frequency-domain optical waveform capture
– Compatibility & Integration
• Host Instruments: Tektronix 11800 Series Digital Sampling Oscilloscopes, CSA 803 Communications Signal Analyzers, SM-11 Multichannel Unit
• Sampling Head Requirement: SD2x or SD3x electrical sampling head
• Extender Cables: 012-1220-00 (1 m), 012-1221-00 (2 m)
• Standalone Operation: Requires optional 016-1609-00 power supply
• Included Accessories: Hard case, user manual, fiber optic hybrid connectors (FC/FC, FC/ST, FC/SC), FC/FC single-mode fiber jumper, 50 Ω U-cable, certificate of traceable calibration
