The VIAVI Solutions MTA Series Optical Attenuator Shelf is a modular mainframe platform that integrates precision optical attenuation and switching capabilities into a single 19-inch rack-mounted chassis. The system accepts one controller card and up to eight additional modules—attenuators or optical switches—enabling flexible, scalable configurations for telecommunications and datacom component characterization. This architecture supports both laboratory precision testing and manufacturing automation while maintaining accurate, repeatable attenuation control across diverse wavelength ranges and fiber types.
Technical Specifications
MTA Series Mainframe
• Chassis configuration: one controller card + up to eight modules
• Rack mounting: standard 19-inch (48.26 cm)
MTA 300 Optical Attenuator Cassette
• Wavelength range: 1200–1700 nm
• Fiber type: single-mode
• Optical interface: FC/APC
• Attenuation range: programmable, >60 dB
• Control: front panel keypad or GPIB remote interface
• Command set: SCPI compatible
• Etalon-free design with low PDL and low return loss
SmartClass OLA-54 (Multimode)
• Fiber type: 50/125 µm multimode
• Wavelength range: 750–1350 nm (1 nm increments)
• Attenuation range: 2.5–55 dB
• Insertion loss: 300 h) or NiMH rechargeable
• 600 adjustable wavelengths; 40 Gbps ready
• NIST/PTB traceable calibration
SmartClass OLA-55 (Single-Mode)
• Fiber type: 9/125 µm single-mode
• Wavelength range: 1260–1650 nm (1 nm increments)
• Attenuation range: 2.0–60 dB
• Insertion loss: <2.0 dB minimum
• Linearity: ±0.2 dB
• Repeatability: ±0.1 dB
• Total accuracy: ±0.8 dB typical
• Maximum input level: +23 dBm
• Continuous bi-directional operation
• Display: illuminated 128 × 64 graphical
• Power: four AA batteries or NiMH rechargeable
• USB port for remote operation
– Key Features
• Etalon-free performance minimizes optical distortion
• Low polarization dependent loss and return loss
• Field-rated construction (shock-proof, splash-proof) on SmartClass units
• SCPI command compatibility for automated test sequences
• Dual display modes: absolute or relative attenuation values
• Low differential group delay supports 40 Gbps applications
– Typical Applications
• Optical component characterization and qualification
• Telecommunications network testing and validation
• Datacom transceiver characterization
• Wavelength-dependent loss measurement
• Power calibration and level verification
– Compatibility & Integration
The MTA mainframe accommodates mixed module populations, allowing simultaneous deployment of different attenuator types and optical switches. SmartClass units provide standalone battery-powered operation with USB remote control, while MTA 300 cassettes integrate into the mainframe via GPIB automation.
