Exfo IQ-5100 Polarization Controller

The Exfo IQ-5100 Polarization Controller is a precision instrument that manipulates the polarization state of light within optical fibers using four liquid-crystal waveplates. It integrates into the Exfo IQ-200 Optical Test System and operates across the 1200 nm to 1635 nm wavelength range (1260 nm to 1650 nm for the IQ-5100B model). The controller executes both manual and random scanning modes, enabling continuous cycling through all possible polarization states or user-directed adjustment of optical delay per waveplate.

## Technical Specifications

• **Wavelength Range:** 1200 nm to 1635 nm (standard); 1260 nm to 1650 nm (IQ-5100B)
• **Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL):** Typical <0.2 dB; Maximum <0.5 dB
• **Insertion Loss:** Typical <0.2 dB (excluding connectors); Maximum ≤1 dB (with connectors)
• **Polarization Extinction Ratio:** ≥23 dB
• **Return Loss:** ≥50 dB (UPC Connector)
• **Activation Dependent Loss (IQ-5100B):** Typical 0.006 dB; Maximum 0.01 dB
• **Poincaré Sphere Coverage (IQ-5100B):** 98% at 1 period; 99% at 2 periods
• **Scrambling Time (IQ-5100B):** 1 to 99.9 seconds
• **Operating Temperature:** 0 °C to 40 °C
• **Storage Temperature:** -20 °C to 70 °C
• **Dimensions (IQ-5100B):** 12.1 cm (H) × 3.8 cm (W) × 26.2 cm (D)

## Key Features

• Four liquid-crystal waveplate elements simulate variable retarders
• Manual mode for precise per-waveplate optical delay adjustment
• Random scanning mode for automated polarization state cycling
• Dual optical ports (input/output) with UPC connectors
• GPIB and Windows DDE interfaces for local and remote control

## Typical Applications

• Polarization-dependent loss measurements on passive components (couplers, isolators, Bragg gratings)
• Polarization-dependent gain assessment on EDFAs
• Polarization-dependent responsivity characterization for detectors and receivers

## Compatibility & Integration

• Designed for Exfo IQ-200 Optical Test System
• Windows-compatible IQ Software control
• No user-serviceable components except fiber port cleaning