AQ6380 Highest Performance Optical Spectrum Analyzer 1200 - 1650 nm and 900 - 1650 nm
The AQ6380 OSA is the highest performance optical spectrum analyzer from Yokogawa Test&Measurement. Its excellent optical wavelength resolution, accuracy, and close-in dynamic range specifications allow optical signals in close proximity to be clearly separated and precisely measured.
This OSA incorporates smart technology and functionality including an intuitive touchscreen, automated wavelength calibration, and optimized sweep speed, allowing users to operate more efficiently. In addition, the AQ6380 OSA includes gas purging mechanisms, fully-automated wavelength calibration, compatibility with high-resolution and high sample counts, and single-mode fiber input.
Key Features:
- High wavelength resolution: 5 pm (0.624 GHz)
- High wavelength accuracy: ±5 pm
- Wide close-in dynamic range: 65 dB
- High stray light suppression: 80 dB
- Wavelength coverage: 1200 - 1650 nm (standard model), 900 - 1650 nm (extended model)
Unparalleled Optical Performance
5 pm (0.624 GHz) high wavelength resolution
The AQ6380 achieves a wavelength resolution of 5 pm. It enables to separate closely allocated DWDM channels and modulation side peaks of optical transceivers.
Modulated spectrum of 10G optical transceiver
65 dB wide close-in dynamic range
The monochromator has sharper spectral characteristics than ever. Signals in close proximity (e.g., residual longitudinal modes of external cavity laser) can be clearly separated and accurately measured.
Spectrum of external cavity laser
Wide wavelength range and variable resolution support multiple applications
The AQ6380 has a wavelength band of 1200 to 1650 nm. This means a single unit can meet diversifying wavelength measurement needs. Wavelength resolution can be varied from 5 pm to 2 nm, supporting a wide range of applications from narrowband peak/notch measurements to wideband spectral measurements. In addition, the increased resolution contributes to an improvement in measurement speed and accuracy for low power signals.
Transmission spectrum of optical filter
80 dB stray light suppression
Stray light is optical noise caused by the diffuse reflection of incident light inside a monochromator. In situations such as laser SMSR measurement, where multiple optical spectra with different levels are measured at the same time, the stray light can interfere with the measurement. When this occurs, high stray light suppression performance is required. The AQ6380 provides high dynamic range measurements with excellent stray light suppression performance of 80 dB, with no spurious noise generated.
Stray light suppression performance
Gas purging mechanism to minimize water vapor absorption
In the near-infrared wavelength range there are wavelength regions where strong light absorption is observed due to the influence of water vapor in the air. In an OSA, there is a wavelength band in which the light absorption characteristics of water vapor inside the monochromator are noticeably detected. Such phenomena interferes with accurate optical spectrum measurements in the applicable wavelength band. The AQ6380 is equipped with a purge mechanism that replaces the air inside the monochromator with nitrogen or dry air by continuously supplying it through dedicated ports on the back panel. This results in accurate measurements that are unaffected by the light absorption phenomenon of water vapor.
Effect of purging
±5 pm wavelength accuracy
The AQ6380 offers ±5 pm in the C band to meet the most stringent accuracy requirements. It also offers ±10 pm in the S and L bands and ±50 pm over the entire wavelength range. With such accuracy, some applications may not require an optical wavelength meter anymore. Periodic self-wavelength calibration using the built-in wavelength reference light source ensures long-term stability for each measurement.
Automated wavelength calibration maintains high accuracy
Ambient temperature change, vibrations, and shock affect the measurement accuracy of high precision products such as optical spectrum analyzers. The AQ6380 delivers high-precision measurements long-term with the wavelength calibration and alignment adjustment functions using the built-in light source. Wavelength calibration with the internal light source can be performed fully automatically and regularly without an external fiber cord. Wavelength calibration using an external light source is supported and is accomplished by setting the exact wavelength.
Single-mode fiber input
The optical input uses a PC-type single-mode fiber. It achieves an optical return loss of 30 dB or more (even when connected with a PC-type optical plug) and reduces the impact of reflectioni-sensitive optical devices on measurements.
Advancing Market Capabilities
The extreme test requirements of our research called for an OSA with extended MIR spectrum bandwidth capabilities up to 5pm, but we couldn’t find one on the market capable of measuring optical inputs at these wavelengths. Yokogawa Test&Measurement rose to the challenge and developed a new OSA model for us that would. Not only do we now have an instrument that is practically custom-made for our needs, it provides repeatable, accurate, and trusted measurement outputs and is easy to learn and use. Their equipment and ability to create a new optical measurement solution has definitely increased the overall efficiency and productivity of our research team.
— Martin Bernier, PhD, P.Eng.
Full Professor, Centre de Optique, Photonique, et Laser, Université Laval
Full Professor, Centre de Optique, Photonique, et Laser, Université Laval
Improve measurement efficiency and productivity
Up to 20x faster measurement
With a new sensitivity mode (RAPID) specialized for CW light, measurement speed is up to 20x faster than conventional models.
New sensitivity settings optimize measurement time
Sensitivity settings have a significant impact on measurement time. The AQ6380 has two modes and 19 sensitivity settings. Shorten measurement time by selecting the optimum sensitivity according to the type of optical signal and the minimum sensitivity requirement. Measurement sensitivity can also be set numerically. The appropriate sensitivity setting is automatically selected when entering the required minimum sensitivity value.
- RAPID: Sensitivity mode for fast measurement specialized for CW light
- TRAD: Traditional sensitivity mode that supports both CW light and pulsed light
Note: The sensitivity is a reference value at 1550 nm, not a guaranteed value
Built-in analysis functions eliminate post-processing tasks
The AQ6380 has built-in analysis functions to characterize optical spectrum from a variety of optical systems and devices including WDM, DFB-LD, EDFA, and filters. The automatic calculation of the major parameters of the device under test will contributes to fast characterization. Analysis functions include DFB-LD, FP-LD, LED, spectral width (peak/notch), SMSR, optical power, WDM (OSNR), EDFA (NF and gain), filter (peak/bottom), and WDM filter (peak/bottom).
Example of SMSR analysis
DUT-oriented test apps simplify the test process
The appplication mode (APP) transforms an OSA into a versatile machine dedicated to a device under test (DUT). APP mode provides a DUT-specific user interface that navigates the user from configuration settings to test result output without worrying with other OSA settings. The AQ6380 comes pre-installed with several standard applications including WDM testing, DFB-LD testing, and FP-LD testing. Additional optional applications are available for download from the Yokogawa Test&Measurement website.
APP menu window
WDM test application
Backward-compatible remote interface for easy upgrade of test system
Easily build an automated measurement system using a remote-control interface (Ethernet or GP-IB). The remote command set conforms to the Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments (SCPI), compatible with AQ6370 series and AQ6319, as well as proprietary AQ6317-compatible commands, allowing for easy upgrades to existing measurement systems.
OSA Viewer enables emulation and remote control on a PC
Emulate and remotely control the AQ6380 using OSA Viewer, the application software included with the AQ6370 Viewer. OSA Viewer's user interface and analysis capabilities allow R&D and production users to easily view and analyze waveforms on their PC or laptop. The AQ6380 can be controlled remotely via a direct connection or over a network. The screen image from the AQ6380 displays in real time on remotely-connected PCs or laptops, where you can operate it as if you are using the AQ6380 directly, and data files saved on the AQ6380 are remotely transferable to your computer. These features are ideal when R&D users need to evaluate and analyze measurement data and optimize test conditions and troubleshoot on remote lines, as well as when Production users need to collect and analyze measurement results of remote production lines.
Interface
Measurement applications and user-friendly multi-touch operation and connectivity
With over four decades perfecting the user experience, the Precision Makers of Yokogawa Test&Measurement developed the AQ6380 with an easy-to-use front-panel design and intuitive operability.
Large LCD touchscreen
The high-resolution, responsive 10.4-inch multi-touch capacitive touchscreen makes device operation simple and intuitive. Easily change the view and measurement conditions and perform analysis with just a touch. In the optical spectrum view, the waveform view can be zoomed or shifted by a simple tap and drag.
Enhanced function keys
Operability is improved with the addition of frequently-used function keys on the front panel. These include sweep control (Auto/Single/Repeat/Stop), resolution, and sensitivity. The function keys can also be displayed as a pop-up on the screen.
WDM transmission systems
To test a multi-channel, narrowly-spaced WDM system, high-spectral measurement performance is required to test the system’s internal circuit boards (e.g., laser modules, optical transceivers, final output signal). This includes simultaneous peak and OSNR measurements. AQ6380’s wide close-in dynamic range allows accurate OSNR measurement of DWDM transmission systems. The built-in WDM analysis function analyzes the measured waveform and shows peak wavelength, peak level, and OSNR of WDM signals up to 1024 channels simultaneously.
Example of DWDM OSNR analysis
Lasers/optical transceivers
Testing of optical components used in WDM transmission systems such as laser devices, laser modules, and optical transceivers requires high accuracy. Example applications include modulated signal measurement of optical transceivers and transponders and measurement of all channels of optical transceivers with WDM technology beyond 100 G. The AQ6380’s sharp spectral characteristics and high straylight suppression performance enables users to visualize and accurately measure spectral peaks in close proximity.
Example of DFB-LD analysis
Passive components (FBG/WSS)
In conjunction with a broadband light sources such as ASE, SLD, or Super Continuum (SC), the AQ6380 enables higher resolution and wider dynamic range measurements and performs evaluation of passive devices including WDM, FBG, ROADM, and WSS. In addition, the built-in optical filter analysis function simultaneously reports peak/bottom wavelength, level, crosstalk, and ripple width.
USB ports
The AQ6380 has USB ports that are compatible with a USB storage device, mouse, and keyboard. The file feature allows users to save data and screenshots to internal memory or USB storage for use in creating test reports. By connecting a mouse or keyboard to the USB port, you can comfortably operate the AQ6380 as if you were operating a PC.
Data access through LAN
The standard LAN port allows convenient access to files stored in the internal memory and enables remote updates for firmware from a PC.
Functions
Specifications
*1: Using a 9.5/125 μm single mode fiber with a PC type connector, after optical alignment and wavelength calibration with built-in reference light source
*2: Wavelength resolution setting: ≥ 0.1 nm
*3: Resolution: 0.005 nm, number of sampling: AUTO, excluding sensitivity RAPID1 and NORM_HOLD
*4: After performing RBW calibration using a single longitudinal mode laser (wavelength: 1520 to 1560 nm, peak level: ≥ −20 dBm, level stability: ≤ 0.1 dBpp, and wavelength stability: ≤ ±0.001 nm), at the wavelength of RBW calibration
*5: TRAD mode: applicable for CW light and pulsed light measurement, RAPID mode: applicable for CW light measurement
*6: Resolution: 0.1 nm, number of sampling: AUTO
*7: 1523 nm, high dynamic range mode: SWITCH
*8: HeNe laser (1523 nm), wavelength resolution: 0.1 nm, 1520 nm to 1620 nm (except peak wavelength ±2 nm)
*9: Using Yokogawa’s master single mode fiber with a PC connector
*10: Typical value
*11: Some AQ6317 series commands may not be compatible due to changes in specifications or functions.
*12: Liquid crystal display may include a few defective pixels (within 0.002% with respect to the total number of pixels including RGB). There may be a few pixels on the liquid crystal display that do not emit all the time or remains ON all the time. These are not malfunctioning.
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Reduced emission of CO2 about 74% compared to the previous model. Results of Life Cycle Assessment |
AQ6370 Viewer
The AQ6370 Viewer is a package of PC application software for the AQ6380, the AQ6360, and the AQ6370 series Optical Spectrum Analyzer.
Application Note
Overview:
Optimizing bias voltage is essential for efficient optical modulator operation, maintenance of signal quality, and meeting performance specifications required for a designated application. Proper biasing helps achieve desired modulation effects, reduces distortion, and enhances overall reliability of optical communication systems.
Industries:
Featured
Application Note
Overview:
Optical transceivers are one of the indispensable key devices for optical communications that interconvert optical and electrical signals.
Industries:
Overview:
OSA Macro Program Function
The OSA Macro Program Function enables automated measurement by creating programs for entry of measurement conditions and other tasks. Users can program a sequence of measurement procedures from entry of measurement conditions (e.g., wavelength sweep width, setting resolution) to analyses, data saving, output, and others and eliminates redundant procedures on the production line. The function acts as a controller of other connected devices through the LAN or RS232C port and allows users to build an automatic measuring system without using an external PC and input measurement conditions or output measured results while programs are running.
Overview:
Overview of optical communications via optical fibers including: signal conversion, optical fiber benefits, techniques like wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) for increased capacity, key components like optical amplifiers and spectrum analyzers for maintaining transmission quality.
Industries:
Industries:
Overview:
Lack of reliable high-speed internet access in rural regions, due to complicated logistics and the considerable costs involved to extend land-based networks to these areas, has inspired a wave of next-generation applications that will provide greater accessibility and reliability. Making use of “space laser” networks, these revolutionary solutions can relay digital traffic via low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite systems to provide low-latency, high-speed broadband services to communities typically beyond the reach of standard wireless and fiber networks.
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Overview:
To accurately measure pulsed light using an optical spectrum analyzer (OSA), it is necessary to understand the characteristics of the OSA and select the appropriate measurement method and settings.
Industries:
Industries:
Industries:
Case Study
Laval University Speeds Up Advanced Photonics Research
(Laval University Photonics Research Case Study)
Overview:
Laval University is a research institution world renowned for optics and photonics technology research and training, and are the founders of The Center for Optics, Photonics, and Lasers (COPL).
The university's researchers needed a faster and more efficient and practical solution to measure the spectral performance of lasers and optics beyond traditional telecom wavelengths. To achieve this, they contacted Yokogawa Test&Measurement and collaborated to develop a breakthrough grating-based optical spectrum analyzer that could cover MWIR wavelengths up to 5.5 um. Click to learn how productivity in the research lab dramatically increased for precise characterization of laser sources, and active/passive optical components in the fields of communications, medical diagnosis, advanced optical sensing, and environmental and atmospheric sensing.
Overview:
The extreme test requirements of our research called for an OSA with extended MIR spectrum bandwidth capabilities up to 5μm, but we couldn’t find one on the market capable of measuring optical inputs at these wavelengths. Yokogawa Test&Measurement rose to the challenge and developed a new OSA model for us that would. Not only do we now have an instrument that is practically custom-made for our needs, it provides repeatable, accurate, and trusted measurement outputs and is easy to learn and use. Their equipment and ability to create a new optical measurement solution has definitely increased the overall efficiency and productivity of our research team.
— Martin Bernier, PhD, P.Eng., Full Professor, Centre de Optique, Photonique, et Laser, Université Laval
Brochures
- AQ6380 Optical Spectrum Analyzer (3.2 MB)
- Optical Spectrum Analyzer Selection Guide (1.0 MB)
Instruction Manuals
- AQ6380 Optical Spectrum Analyzer User's Manual (13.4 MB)
- AQ6380 Optical Spectrum Analyzer Getting Start Guide (3.9 MB)
- AQ6380 Optical Spectrum Analyzer Remote Control User's Manual (1.9 MB)
Specifications
Software
- AQ6370 Viewer
- APP for Optical Spectrum Analyzer
- LabVIEW Drivers for AQ6380 Optical Spectrum Analyzer (NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS Web Page)
- Sample Program for OSA
- Logging Data Utility
Firmware
Drawings
- AQ6380 Optical Spectrum Analyzer (525 KB)
Product Overviews
Overview:
Introducing the new Yokogawa Test&Measurement AQ6380 Optical Spectrum Analyzer. This new OSA includes many sought-after features including:
• An unprecedented 5 pm wavelength resolution
• ±5 pm wavelength accuracy
• 1200 nm to 1650 nm wavelength range
• 65 dB wide close-in dynamic range
• 80 dB stray light suppression
• Automated wavelength calibration
• Gas purging
• DUT-oriented interface and test apps
• Backward-compatible remote interface
• 10.4in intuitive touchscreen
• Up to 20x faster measurement
• Remote operation capabilities
How-tos
- Span
- Sweep
- Calibration
- Analysis
- Cursors/Markers
- PC-Based Remote Viewing Software
Overview:
We are going live on YouTube to answer your questions about the Yokogawa Test&Measurement AQ6380 high performance optical spectrum analyzer. Join us to discuss how to make the most of this award-winning instrument. During this live stream we will review the resolution and dynamic range of the AQ6380 OSA along with an example application of a 1310nm signal from an AQ1000 XFP module. Whether you’ve worked with an OSA for years or curious if it is a good fit for your work or research, this live stream can help.
Potential items for review include but are not limited to:
Overview:
Application Engineer Danielle walks us through how to use an optical spectrum analyzer (OSA) to measure a gas cell in just a few easy steps.
Webinars
- Key test methods and technologies
- Traditional and new applications
- Common testing oversights
- Measuring against industry standards
- Ensuring network element performance and reliability
- Fundamental test solution principles for challenges in demanding environments
- Ensuring flawless and reliable operation of potentially life-critical components and systems over the entire life of the equipment
- Techniques and results of signals from both LiDAR and facial recognition lasers from different smartphones
- Experience how LiDAR manages (or mismanages) navigating metropolitan city streets in a truly driverless Level 4 Robotaxi
- Fiber identification and recommendations for routine care
- Measurement techniques for different optical measurement devices
- Example wavelength-specific applications for visible light to over 3000 nm such as telecommunications, biomedical, and atmospheric gas sensing
- Important considerations for selecting an optical spectrum analyzer
- The what, why, and how of available options like optical spectrum analyzers, optical wavelength meters, optical power meters, variable attenuators, fixed and tunable laser sources, and more
- How to improve the quality and value of results for both active and passive optical devices
- Ways to streamline productivity and reduce costs while also achieving higher data transmission rates, longer-distance transmissions, immunity to EMI, lower signal loss, lower latency, enhanced security, and improved energy efficiency
- Trends driven by applications such as AI, quantum, and inter-satellite laser communications (i.e., space lasers!)
Overview:
Increasing demands for greater network bandwidth and expansion of 5G wireless backhaul has driven data rates to 400G, 800G, and beyond. Starting with the physical layer of the optical network stack, precision measurement of these light speed signals is crucial.
This webinar covers a range of alternatives used to evaluate test parameters for DWDM, OSNR, SMSR, and EDFA, and includes a discussion on interesting applications like the use of high-energy lasers across space satellite mesh networks.
Key topics include:
Overview:
A vision of self-driving cars propels the research and development of automotive LiDAR, a vital hardware providing distance and velocity information of a vehicle’s surroundings. Some LiDAR concepts are already heading toward production for automotive ADAS and industrial markets. Two newer concepts promise the greatest potential yet: frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) LiDAR and time-of-flight (TOF) flash LiDAR. However, there are engineering challenges impeding their full adoption. This webinar reviews operation principles and challenges of different LiDAR concepts, a brief discussion on the LiDAR market, and a review of critical optical components such as photodetectors and sources.
Key takeaways include:
Overview:
Mastering the fundamentals of optical wavelength measurements and having a solid understanding of measurement principles for optical sources and devices is key to measuring with confidence. This webinar provides a thorough review of these foundational elements and concepts as well as:
Overview:
There are countless technologies available for optical communications devices and systems validation. With so many specifics to take into consideration, it's not always easy for an engineer to determine the best networking and fiber optic measurement solution to address their measurement needs.
Key discussions in this on-demand webinar include:
Yokogawa AQ6380 Highest Performance Optical Spectrum Analyzer awarded highest class score by 2022 Lightwave Innovation Reviews
Yokogawa Test&Measurement, a pioneer and leader in precision optical measurement, is pleased to announce that the latest addition to its optical spectrum analyzer line, the AQ6380 Highest Performance OSA has received the highest score, 4.5/5.0, in the Lab/Production Test Equipment class by 2022 Lightwave Innovation Reviews.
Press Release
Feb 9, 2022
Yokogawa Test & Measurement Releases AQ6380 Optical Spectrum Analyzer
- Industry-leading performance in dispersive spectroscopy achieves 5 pm wavelength resolution -
Press Release
Aug 29, 2021
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