Yokogawa Test & Measurement Releases AQ7420 High-Resolution Reflectometer

Yokogawa Test & Measurement Corporation

Amersfoort, The Netherlands – 15/01/2024

Press Release

 

Yokogawa Test & Measurement Releases AQ7420 High-Resolution Reflectometer

 

Yokogawa Test & Measurement Corporation announces the release of its AQ7420 high-resolution reflectometer. Utilizing OLCR (optical low-coherence reflectometry) technology, the AQ7420 is ideal for the internal structure analysis of optical modules and the visualization of microcracks in optical connectors. It provides a spatial resolution of 40 µm and exceptional back reflection measurement sensitivity down to -100 dB or lower, with no spurious noise. Combined with the optional sensor head unit, users can measure insertion loss simultaneously alongside back reflection, making the AQ7420 a highly efficient and cost-effective reflectometer for optical market applications.

AQ7420 high-resolution reflectometer

 

Development Background

Yokogawa Test & Measurement Corporation listens constantly to customer feedback and industry trends, developing new innovations in line with market evolution. In researching silicon photonics and producing fiber optic connectors, the company became aware of several emerging demands that could not be satisfied with existing market solutions. These included: even more reduction of spurious noise; simultaneous measurement of back reflection and insertion loss; enhanced stability of measured waveforms; and faster measurement time. The objective was to develop a new solution that could meet these requirements, the result of which is the new AQ7420 high-resolution reflectometer. Two models are available: single-wavelength (1310 nm) and two-wavelength (1310 and 1550 nm). Also released is control software for Windows 11, an optional dedicated sensor head for loss measurement, various master codes (compatible with a variety of connector types) and a distance adjustment code to adjust the measurement starting position.

 

Main Features

Principal among the main new features is the ability of the AQ7420 to reduce spurious noise. With conventional OLCR/OFDR technology-based devices, spurious (ghost) noise is often observable in areas where there is no actual reflection (depending on the characteristics of the equipment), leading to misjudgments. In such situations, correct waveform analysis relies heavily on users with specialist knowledge. In contrast, the new AQ7420 features technology that greatly reduces spurious noise, with ease-of-analysis among its prominent attributes.

 

Another feature of note is the potential to measure back reflection and insertion loss simultaneously. Conventional OLCR/OFDR instruments are often unable to inspect back reflection amount accurately due to the poor measurement accuracy of the vertical axis (amount of reflection level). The AQ7420 high-resolution reflectometer counters this issue by enabling measurement with an uncertainty of ±3dB. Furthermore, by taking advantage of the optical sensor head, users can measure insertion loss simultaneously with an uncertainty of ±0.02dB.

 

Another important feature is faster measurement time. Compared with the previous-generation product (AQ7410), the measurement time of the new AQ7420 high-resolution reflectometer is around 50% quicker, approximately 6 seconds compared with 12 seconds beforehand.

 

Major Target Markets

- Companies and organizations conducting silicon photonics research

- Manufacturers running productions lines for optical connectors and components

- Any company involved in the analysis of defective optical components

 

Applications

- Detecting the amount and location of reflections inside optical connectors and optical modules with high accuracy

- Visualizing microcracks inside optical connectors that cannot be seen using loss measurement techniques

 

For More Information

AQ7420 https://tmi.yokogawa.com/p/aq7420/

 

About Yokogawa Test&Measurement

Yokogawa has been developing measurement solutions for 100 years, consistently finding new ways to give R&D teams the tools they need to gain the best insights from their measurement strategies. The company has pioneered accurate power measurement throughout its history, and is the market leader in digital power analyzers and optical spectrum analyzers.

 

Yokogawa measuring instruments are renowned worldwide for their high levels of precision, quality, durability, and service support.

 

Meet the Precision Makers at https://tmi.yokogawa.com/

 

About Yokogawa

Yokogawa provides advanced solutions in the areas of measurement, control, and information to customers across a broad range of industries, including energy, chemicals, materials, pharmaceuticals, and food. Yokogawa addresses customer issues regarding the optimization of production, assets, and the supply chain with the effective application of digital technologies, enabling the transition to autonomous operations.

Founded in Tokyo in 1915, Yokogawa continues to work toward a sustainable society through its 17,000+ employees in a global network of 126 companies spanning 60 countries.

For more information, visit www.yokogawa.com

 

The names of corporations, organizations, products, services and logos herein are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Yokogawa Electric Corporation or their respective holders.