Ando AQ8460 Optical Component Analyzer

The Ando AQ8460 Optical Component Analyzer characterizes optical components in DWDM networks with simultaneous multi-port spectral measurement. Using a high-performance tunable laser and multiple optical power meters, it measures insertion loss, return loss, polarization-dependent loss, and spectral attenuation across components such as multiplexers, demultiplexers, add/drop multiplexers, fiber Bragg gratings, filters, and isolators. The instrument delivers results in under 20 seconds with 1000 data points and up to 40 sensors, significantly accelerating analysis compared to sequential measurement methods.

## Technical Specifications

**Wavelength Coverage**
• C-band Model (AQ8460): 1500 to 1580 nm
• L-band Model (AQ8460L): 1520 to 1620 nm
• Wavelength Accuracy: ±0.01 nm (C-band), ±0.015 nm (L-band)
• Wavelength Resolution: 0.001 nm minimum

**Laser Source**
• Tunable laser with Single-Mode Side-Mode Suppression Ratio: 70 dB or greater

**Optical Power Measurement**
• Sensor Noise Level: -73 dBm or less
• Dynamic Range: 60 dB or greater (peak and notch), 57 dB or greater (L-band)
• Sensor Return Loss: 40 dB minimum (43 dB typical)
• PDL Accuracy: ±0.01 dB typical

**Measurement Speed**
• With Range Hold: Less than 20 seconds (1000 data points, 40 sensors)
• With Auto Range: Less than 35 seconds (1000 data points, 40 sensors)

## Key Features

• Simultaneous measurement across up to 240 sensors via six AQ8461 Expansion Frames
• Single and multi-sensor analysis modes
• Single-trace analysis for multi-peak components (add/drop multiplexers)
• Consecutive multi-trace analysis for single-peak components (MUX/DEMUX)
• Built-in wavelength reference for accuracy maintenance
• No external controller required for acquisition and analysis

## Typical Applications

• DWDM filter and multiplexer characterization
• Fiber Bragg grating spectral analysis
• Optical isolator performance verification
• Add/drop multiplexer testing

## Compatibility & Integration

• Single-mode fiber: 10/125 µm
• Connectors: FC/Angled-PC (main unit), FC/SPC (expansion modules)
• Interfaces: GP-IB (IEEE488.1), PS/2 keyboard, VGA, printer port, dual serial ports for AQ8461 control