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User, Programming and Service Guide
Agilent 11896A
Polarization Controller
Notice The information contained in this document is subject to change without
notice.
Agilent Technologies makes no warranty of any kind with regard to
this material, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of
merchantability and tness for a particular purpose. Agilent Technologies
shall not be liable for errors contained herein or for incidental or
consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or use
of this material.
Agilent Part Number: 11896-90011
Printed in USA April 2000
Copyright Agilent Technologies 2000
c
All Rights Reserved. Reproduction, adaptation, or translation without prior
written permission is prohibited, except as allowed under the copyright laws.
1400 Fountaingrove Parkway, Santa Rosa, CA 95403-1799, USA
Certi cation
Agilent Technologies certi es that this product met its published speci cations
at the time of shipment from the factory. Agilent Technologies further
certi es that its calibration measurements are traceable to the United States
National Institute of Standards and Technology, to the extent allowed by
the Institute's calibration facility, and to the calibration facilities of other
International Standards Organization members.
iii
Warranty
This Agilent Technologies instrument product is warranted against defects in
material and workmanship for a period of one year from date of shipment.
During the warranty period, Agilent Technologies will, at its option, either
repair or replace products which prove to be defective.
For warranty service or repair, this product must be returned to a service
facility designated by Agilent Technologies. Buyer shall prepay shipping
charges to Agilent Technologies and Agilent Technologies shall pay shipping
charges to return the product to Buyer. However, Buyer shall pay all shipping
charges, duties, and taxes for products returned to Agilent Technologies from
another country.
Agilent Technologies warrants that its software and rmware designated by
Agilent Technologies for use with an instrument will execute its programming
instructions when properly installed on that instrument. Agilent Technologies
does not warrant that the operation of the instrument, or software, or
rmware will be uninterrupted or error-free.
Limitation of Warranty
The foregoing warranty shall not apply to defects resulting from improper
or inadequate maintenance by Buyer, Buyer-supplied software or
interfacing, unauthorized modi cation or misuse, operation outside of the
environmental speci cations for the product, or improper site preparation
or maintenance.
NO OTHER WARRANTY IS EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. AGILENT
TECHNOLOGIES SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES
OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
Exclusive Remedies
THE REMEDIES PROVIDED HEREIN ARE BUYER'S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE
REMEDIES. AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR
ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES, WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT, OR ANY OTHER
LEGAL THEORY.
iv
Assistance
Product maintenance agreements and other customer assistance agreements
are available for Agilent Technologies products.
For any assistance, contact your nearest Agilent Technologies Service Oce.
v
Safety Symbols
The following safety symbols are used throughout this manual. Familiarize
yourself with each of the symbols and its meaning before operating this
instrument.
CAUTION
The caution sign denotes a hazard to the instrument. It calls attention to a
procedure which, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in
damage to or destruction of the instrument. Do not proceed beyond a caution
sign until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.
WARNING
The warning sign denotes a life-threatening hazard. It calls attention to a
procedure which, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result
in injury or loss of life. Do not proceed beyond a warning sign until the
indicated conditions are fully understood and met.
L
Instruction The instruction manual symbol. The product is marked with this symbol when it is necessary
Manual for the user to refer to the instructions in the manual.
vi
General Safety Considerations
WARNING
Before this instrument is switched on, make sure it has been properly
grounded through the protective conductor of the ac power cable to a
socket outlet provided with protective earth contact.
Any interruption of the protective (grounding) conductor, inside or
outside the instrument, or disconnection of the protective earth terminal
can result in personal injury.
WARNING
This is a Safety Class I product (provided with a protective earthing
ground incorporated in the power cord). The mains plug shall only be
inserted in a socket outlet provided with a protective earth contact.
Any interruption of the protective conductor inside or outside of the
instrument is likely to make the instrument dangerous. Intentional
interruption is prohibited.
WARNING
There are many points in the instrument which can, if contacted, cause
personal injury. Be extremely careful.
Any adjustments or service procedures that require operation of the
instrument with protective covers removed should be performed only by
trained service personnel.
WARNING
If this instrument is not used as speci ed, the protection provided by the
equipment could be impaired. This instrument must be used in a normal
condition (in which all means for protection are intact) only.
NOTE
Clean the cabinet using a damp cloth only.
vii
How to Use This Manual
This manual provides information about the Agilent 11896A polarization
controller.
Chapter 1 provides general information and speci cations for the
controller
Chapter 2 describes how to prepare the polarization controller for
use and how to make ber optic connections
Chapter 3 shows how to manually control the lightwave polarization
controller
Chapter 4 shows how to control the lightwave polarization controller
using a computer
Chapter 5 provides procedures for verifying and servicing the
Agilent 11896A polarization controller
Appendix A selecting scan rate and measurement time
Appendix B measurement considerations
Appendix C provides a sample GPIB program
viii
Contents
1. General Information
Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Instrument con guration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Polarization-dependent loss measurements . . . . . . 1-5
Power meter PDL measurement system . . . . . . 1-5
Swept-wavelength PDL measurement system . . . . 1-6
Max/min PDL measurement system . . . . . . . . 1-8
Theory of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
Speci cations and Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
Serial Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14
Electrostatic Discharge Information . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
Reducing ESD damage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
2. Installation and Preparation for Use
Preparing the Polarization Controller for Use . . . . . . 2-3
Initial inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Connecting the Agilent 11896A to a power source . . . 2-4
Power requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Checking the fuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Power cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Turning on the Agilent 11896A . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Lightwave Connector Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Cleaning and handling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
De nition of terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Handling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Cleaning non-lensed lightwave connectors . . . . . . . 2-12
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Cleaning lightwave adapters . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Cleaning lensed connections . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Contents-1
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Making connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
Visual inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
Optical performance testing . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Insertion loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Return loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
3. Using the Agilent 11896A Polarization Controller
Front-Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Error codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Rear-Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Using the Agilent 11896A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Power-up function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
To use the Manual mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
To continuously sweep all polarization states . . . . . 3-9
To set the scan rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
To save an instrument state . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
To recall an instrument state . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
To use the Local function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
To display or change the GPIB address . . . . . . . . 3-11
4. Programming
Changing the GPIB address . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Talking to the Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Program Message Syntax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Output command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Device address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
Instruction header . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
White space (separator) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
Program data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
Header types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
Simple command header . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
Compound command header . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
Common command header . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
Combining commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
Duplicate mnemonics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Query command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
Contents-2
Program header options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
Program data syntax rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Numeric program data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Program message terminator . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Selecting multiple subsystems . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Initialization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Programming over GPIB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Interface capabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Command and data concepts . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Addressing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
Communicating over the bus (HP 9000 series 200/300
controller) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
Interface select code (selects interface) . . . . . . . 4-17
Instrument address (selects instrument) . . . . . . 4-17
Lockout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18
Bus commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18
Device clear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18
Interface clear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18
Common commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19
*CLS (Clear Status) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19
*ESE (Event Status Enable) . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20
*ESR (Event Status Register) . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
*IDN (Identi cation Number) . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22
*OPC (Operation Complete) . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22
*RCL (Recall) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
*RST (Reset) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
*SAV (Save) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
*SRE (Service Request Enable) . . . . . . . . . . 4-24
*STB (Status Byte) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
*TST (Test) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
*WAI (Wait) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
Instrument speci c commands . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27
:ABORt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27
:INITiate:IMMediate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27
:PADDle:POSition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-28
:SCAN:RATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29
:SCAN:TIMer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29
:SCAN:TIMer:CLEar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-30
:STATus:OPERation :CONDition . . . . . . . . . 4-30
:STATus:OPERation :ENABle . . . . . . . . . . 4-30
:STATus:OPERation :EVENt . . . . . . . . . . . 4-31
Contents-3
:STATus:PRESet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-31
:STATus:QUEStionable :CONDition . . . . . . . . . . 4-31
:STATus:QUEStionable :ENABle . . . . . . . . . 4-32
:STATus:QUEStionable :EVENt . . . . . . . . . . 4-32
:SYSTem:ERRor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-33
:SYSTem:VERSion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-34
5. Veri cation and Service Information
Performing a Veri cation Check . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Verify startup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Verify the SCAN RATE function . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Verify the LOCAL function . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Verify the SAVE and RECALL functions . . . . . . 5-4
Verify the event timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
If the veri cation check fails . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Verifying the Agilent 11896A Speci cations . . . . . . . 5-7
Insertion loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Return loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
How to Return the Agilent 11896A for Service . . . . . 5-9
Packaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Instrument shipping preparation procedure . . . . . . 5-10
Sales and service oces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12
Sales and service oces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12
Service Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14
General information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14
Serial-number information . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14
Safety considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14
Reliability considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15
Protection from electrostatic discharge . . . . . . . 5-15
Required service tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-16
Adjustment procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-16
Replacement procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17
To replace the front-panel assembly . . . . . . . . 5-17
To replace the polarization assembly . . . . . . . . 5-18
To replace the power supply . . . . . . . . . . . 5-18
To replace the GPIB connector . . . . . . . . . . 5-18
Replaceable parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-19
Replaceable parts table format . . . . . . . . . . 5-19
Part ordering information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-19
Direct mail-order system . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-20
Direct phone-order system . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-20
Contents-4
Regular orders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-20
Hotline orders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-20
A. Choosing the Scan Rate and Measurement Time
Single wavelength PDL measurements . . . . . . . . A-2
Swept wavelength PDL measurements . . . . . . . . A-3
Depolarization application . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4
B. Measurement Considerations
Overall insertion loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2
Insertion loss variation with paddle position . . . . . B-3
Optical return loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3
Extinction ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4
Paddle angle repeatability . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-5
Settling time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-5
Paddle rotation rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-5
Nominal quarter-wave plates . . . . . . . . . . . . B-5
Index
Contents-5
Figures
1-1. Typical application setup using the Agilent 11896A
polarization controller. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1-2. Setup for single-wavelength PDL measurements using an
optical power meter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
1-3. Setup for swept-wavelength PDL measurements using an
optical spectrum analyzer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
1-4. Example of swept-wavelength PDL test data. . . . . . . . . 1-7
1-5. Setup for single-wavelength max/min PDL measurements. . . 1-8
1-6. Example of max/min PDL measurement data. . . . . . . . 1-9
1-7. Agilent 11896A polarization controller block diagram. . . . . 1-10
1-8. Example of a static-safe work station. . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
2-1. Checking the fuse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
5-1. Agilent 11896A assembly level replaceable parts. . . . . . . 5-21
B-1. Block diagram for testing the extinction ratio of the Agilent
11896A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4
Contents-6
Tables
1-1. Performance Speci cations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12
1-2. Static-Safe Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
2-1. Accessories Supplied with the Agilent 11896A . . . . . . . 2-3
2-2. Agilent 11896A Power Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
2-3. AC Power Cables Available . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
4-1. Standard Event Status Enable Register . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20
4-2. Standard Event Status Register . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
4-3. Service Request Enable Register . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24
4-4. Status Byte Register . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
4-5. Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-33
5-1. Agilent Technologies Service Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13
5-2. Required Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-16
5-3. Assembly-Level Replaceable Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-21
A-1. Selecting Averaging Time, Scan Rate and Measurement Time . A-3
Contents-7
Contents
1
General Information
General Information
What you'll nd in this chapter
A description of the Agilent 11896A polarization controller.
A list of options and accessories available.
Agilent 11896A polarization controller speci cations and characteristics.
Information about the controller's serial number label.
Information about avoiding damage to the controller from electrostatic discharge.
1-2
Description
The Agilent 11896A polarization controller provides manual and
automatic polarization state adjustments over a wide wavelength range
(1250 to 1600 nm). All possible states of polarization are achieved with
extremely small optical insertion-loss variations (60.002 dB). This
performance combination maximizes measurement accuracy for power
sensitive measurements such as polarization-dependent loss, gain and
optical/electrical responsitivity because the measurement uncertainty
contributed by the polarization controller is minimized. A typical application
con guration using the polarization controller is shown in Figure 1-1.
Figure 1-1. Typical application setup using the Agilent 11896A polarization controller.
1-3
General Information
Description
Instrument con guration
The standard Agilent 11896A polarization controller includes:
FC/PC front-panel connector interfaces
Agilent 11896A User, Programming, and Service Guide
Options The following options are available:
Option Description
Option 010 Deletes FC/PC front-panel connector interfaces.
Option 025 One meter pigtail ber with FC/PC connector interfaces.
Accessories The Fiber Optics Handbook (Agilent part number 5952-9654) is an
introduction to, and a reference for, ber-optic measurements.
1-4
General Information
Description
Polarization-dependent loss measurements
Polarization-dependent loss (PDL) measurement systems can be created by
combining the Agilent 11896A with instruments like the Agilent 8153A
lightwave multimeter, the Agilent 71450A or Agilent 71451A optical spectrum
analyzer and the Agilent 8509A/B lightwave polarization analyzer.
Power meter PDL Figure 1-2 shows how to con gure the Agilent 11896A polarization controller
measurement system and the Agilent 8153A optical power meter for performing automatic
single-wavelength PDL measurements. Measurement repeatability of a few
thousandths of a dB can typically be achieved.
Figure 1-2. Setup for single-wavelength PDL measurements using an optical power meter.
1-5
General Information
Description
Swept-wavelength PDL Figure 1-3 shows how to con gure the Agilent 11896A polarization controller
measurement system and the Agilent 71451A optical spectrum analyzer for performing automatic
swept-wavelength PDL measurements.
Figure SWPTWAVE here.
Figure 1-3. Setup for swept-wavelength PDL measurements using an optical spectrum analyzer.
1-6
General Information
Description
An example of swept-wavelength PDL test data, showing the amount of PDL
simultaneously observed over a broad wavelength spectrum, is shown in
Figure 1-4.
Figure 1-4. Example of swept-wavelength PDL test data.
1-7
General Information
Description
Max/min PDL Figure 1-5 shows how to setup the Agilent 11896A polarization controller and
measurement system the Agilent 8509A/B lightwave polarization analyzer for performing automatic
single-wavelength max/min PDL measurements.
Figure 1-5. Setup for single-wavelength max/min PDL measurements.
1-8
General Information
Description
An example of max/min PDL measurement data is shown in Figure 1-6. The
states of polarization are displayed as Stokes parameters and PDL markers
on the Poincare sphere at the points where maximum and minimum power
values actually occur during the measurement.
Figure 1-6. Example of max/min PDL measurement data.
1-9
Theory of Operation
Figure 1-7. Agilent 11896A polarization controller block diagram.
The transmitted signal enters the polarization controller and passes through
the internal four- ber-loop assembly. The dimensions of each loop are
optimized to approximate a quarter-wave retarder response over the
polarization controller's speci ed wavelength range. Complete and continuous
polarization adjustability is achieved by independently adjusting each loop
over an angular range of 180 . This range is divided into 1000 equal steps
(000{999), providing an adjustment resolution of 0.18 . Adjustments can be
made manually, using the front-panel knobs, or automatically, using remote
GPIB commands or the built-in autoscanning control and the SAVE and
RECALL registers.
1-10
Speci cations and Characteristics
This section contains speci cations and characteristics for the
Agilent 11896A polarization controller. The speci cations in this chapter
apply over the temperature range 0 C to +55 C (unless otherwise noted).
All speci cations apply after the instrument's temperature has been stabilized
after 1 hour continuous operation and self-calibration routines have been run.
Fiber pigtail interfaces are assumed for all cases, except where otherwise
stated.
Speci cations Speci cations describe warranted performance.
Characteristics Characteristics provide useful, but nonwarranted, information about the
functions and performance of the instrument. Characteristics are printed in
italics.
Calibration cycle Agilent Technologies warrants instrument speci cations over the
recommended calibration interval. To maintain speci cations,
periodic recalibrations are necessary. We recommend that the
Agilent 11896A polarization controller be calibrated at an Agilent
Technologies service facility every 24 months.
1-11
General Information
Speci cations and Characteristics
Table 1-1. Performance Speci cations
Standard (FC/PC Option 025 ( ber
Performance Speci cations connectors)1 pigtails)
Operating wavelength range 1250 to 1600 nm 1250 to 1600 nm
Insertion loss
Overall insertion loss <2.0 dB2 <1.5 dB3
Variation with paddle position <60.02 dB2 <60.002 dB3
Variation with wavelength (1250{1600 nm) 60.3 dB 60.3 dB
Variation with wavelength (any 100 nm range) 60.1 dB 60.1 dB
Optical return loss 35 dB
2 55 dB
3
Polarization extinction ratio > 40 dB
4 >40 dB4
Paddle adjustment
Paddle angle resolution 0.18
5 0.18
5
Paddle angular repeatability 0.18
5 0.18
5
Settling time <1 sec <1 sec
Number of scan rates 8 8
Maximum paddle rotation rate
360 /sec
360 /sec
Number of SAVE/RECALL memory registers 9 9
Maximum allowable input power +23 dBm +23 dBm
Operating Speci cations
Operating temperature 0
C to 55 C
Non-operating, storage temperature 0
40 C to +70 C
Humidity 15% to 95%, non-condensing
Power requirements 47 to 63 Hz
90 to 264 Vrms
Power consumption 60 VA max
Physical Speci cations
Weight 4.5 kg (10 lb)
Dimensions (H 2 W 2 D) 10 2 21.3 2 36 cm
(3.9 2 8.4 2 14.2 in)
1 Also applies to Option 010 when using FC/PC connectors.
2 Characteristic, non-warranted performance.
3 When the Agilent 11896A is spliced into the measurement system.
4 Extinction ratio refers only to the polarized portion of the optical signal.
5 Any position.
1-12
General Information
Speci cations and Characteristics
1-13
Serial Numbers
Agilent Technologies makes frequent improvements to its products to enhance
their performance, usability, or reliability, and to control costs. Agilent
Technologies service personnel have access to complete records of design
changes to each type of equipment, based on the equipment's serial number.
Whenever you contact Agilent Technologies about your polarization controller,
have the complete serial number available to ensure obtaining the most
complete and accurate information possible. A serial-number label is attached
to the rear of the polarization controller. It contains the serial number and
the options installed in the polarization controller. The serial number has two
parts: the pre x (the rst four numbers and a letter), and the sux (the last
ve numbers). Whenever you refer to the serial number when using it to
obtain information about your controller, be sure to use the complete number,
including the full pre x and sux.
1-14
Electrostatic Discharge Information
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage or destroy electronic components.
All work on electronic assemblies should be performed at a static-safe work
station. Figure 1-8 shows an example of a static-safe work station using two
types of ESD protection:
Conductive table-mat and wrist-strap combination.
Conductive oor-mat and heel-strap combination.
Both types, when used together, provide a signi cant level of ESD protection.
Of the two, only the table-mat and wrist-strap combination provides adequate
ESD protection when used alone. To ensure user safety, the static-safe
accessories must provide at least 1 M
of isolation from ground.
WARNING
These techniques for a static-safe work station should not be used when
working on circuitry with a voltage potential greater than 500 volts.
1-15
General Information
Electrostatic Discharge Information
Figure 1-8. Example of a static-safe work station.
1-16
General Information
Reducing ESD damage
The following suggestions may help reduce ESD damage that occurs during
testing and servicing operations.
Before connecting any coaxial cable to an instrument connector for the rst
time each day, momentarily ground the center and outer conductors of the
cable.
Personnel should be grounded with a resistor-isolated wrist strap before
touching the center pin of any connector and before removing any
assembly from the unit.
Be sure that all instruments are properly earth-grounded to prevent a
buildup of static charge.
Table 1-2 lists static-safe accessories that can be obtained from Agilent
Technologies using the Agilent part numbers shown.
Table 1-2. Static-Safe Accessories
Agilent Part
Number Description
9300-0797 Set includes: 3M static control mat 0.6 m 2 1.2 m (2 ft2 4 ft) and 4.6 cm (15 ft) ground
wire. (The wrist-strap and wrist-strap cord are not included. They must be ordered separately.)
9300-0980 Wrist-strap cord 1.5 m (5 ft).
9300-1383 Wrist-strap, color black, stainless steel, without cord, has four adjustable links and a 7 mm
post-type connection.
9300-1169 ESD heel-strap (reusable 6 to 12 months).
1-17
General Information
2
Installation and
Preparation for Use
Installation and Preparation for Use
What you'll nd in this chapter
Preparing the polarization controller for use.
Turning on the controller.
Making ber optic connections.
2-2
Preparing the Polarization Controller for Use
Initial inspection
Inspect the Agilent 11896A shipping container for damage. If the shipping
container or cushioning material is damaged, keep it until you have veri ed
that the contents are complete and you have tested the polarization controller
mechanically and electrically. Table 2-1 lists the accessories shipped with the
polarization controller.
Notify the carrier if:
the contents are incomplete or if the polarization controller does not pass
the veri cation test (this procedure is provided in \Performing a Veri cation
Check" in Chapter 5).
the shipping container is damaged or the cushioning material shows signs
of stress.
Keep the shipping materials for the carrier's inspection. The Agilent
Technologies oce will arrange for repair or replacement without waiting for
a claim settlement. If the shipping materials are in good condition, retain
them for possible future use. You may wish to ship the polarization controller
to another location or return it to Agilent Technologies for service. Refer to
\How to Return the Agilent 11896A for Service" in Chapter 5.
Table 2-1. Accessories Supplied with the Agilent 11896A
Description Agilent Part Number Comments
Power cable See Table 2-3 Shipped with the polarization
controller.
Operating and service manual 11896-90001 Shipped with the polarization
controller.
2-3
Installation and Preparation for Use
Preparing the Polarization Controller for Use
Connecting the Agilent 11896A to a power source
The polarization controller is a portable instrument and requires no physical
installation other than connection to a power source.
CAUTION
Do not connect ac power until you have veri ed that the line voltage is
correct and the proper fuse is installed. Damage to the equipment could
result.
Power requirements
Table 2-2. Agilent 11896A Power Requirements
Characteristic Requirement
Input Voltage 90 to 264 Vrms
Frequency 47 to 63 Hz
Power 60 VA (maximum)
Checking the fuse
The recommended fuse is a 2 A, 250 V, Agilent part number 2110-0710.
The line fuse is housed in a small container in the line module (refer to
Figure 2-1). The spare fuse is stored below the line fuse. To check the fuse,
insert the tip of a screwdriver between the instrument and the side of
the container. Gently pull outward to remove the container. If the fuse is
defective or missing, install a new fuse in the proper position and reinsert the
fuse container.
2-4
Installation and Preparation for Use
Preparing the Polarization Controller for Use
Figure 2-1. Checking the fuse.
Power cable
The polarization controller is equipped with a three-wire power cable, in
accordance with international safety standards. When connected to an
appropriate power line outlet, this cable grounds the instrument cabinet.
2-5
Installation and Preparation for Use
Preparing the Polarization Controller for Use
WARNING
Failure to ground the polarization controller properly can result in
personal injury. Before turning on the polarization controller, you must
connect its protective earth terminals to the protective conductor of
the main power cable. Insert the main power cable plug only into a
socket outlet that has a protective earth contact. DO NOT defeat the
earth-grounding protection by using an extension cable, power cable, or
autotransformer without a protective ground conductor. If you are using
an autotransformer, make sure its common terminal is connected to the
protective earth contact of the power source outlet socket.
Various power cables are available to connect the polarization controller to
the types of ac power outlets unique to speci c geographic areas. The cable
appropriate for the area to which the polarization controller is originally
shipped is included with the unit. You can order additional ac power cables
for use in dierent areas. Table 2-3 lists the available ac power cables,
illustrates the plug con gurations, and identi es the geographic area in which
each cable is appropriate.
2-6
Installation and Preparation for Use
Preparing the Polarization Controller for Use
Table 2-3. AC Power Cables Available
2-7
Turning on the Agilent 11896A
With the power cable inserted into the line module, turn the polarization
controller on by rocking the front-panel switch to the \1" position. After a
moment, numerals appear on the front-panel LCD. If the LCD fails to light,
refer to \Performing a Veri cation Check" in Chapter 5.
2-8
Lightwave Connector Care
Introduction
Lightwave cable interfaces can be damaged by improper cleaning and
connection procedures. Dirty or damaged lightwave interfaces can result in
nonrepeatable or inaccurate measurements. This section will suggest some
best practices to clean, care for, connect, and inspect lightwave connectors.
Lightwave connectors are used to connect two ber ends together. These
connections may be used to join cables between optical ports on devices, laser
sources, receivers, patch panels, terminals and many other types of systems
or components.
Fiber optic cables are used at dierent wavelengths, in single or multi-mode,
and in dierent environments. There are a variety of sizes, core/cladding
combinations, jackets, and indexes of refraction. In general, dierent types
of cables do not work well together. Cables should match each other and the
system.
However, regardless of the cable type, the connectors have only one function:
to provide a direct and low-loss optical signal transition from one ber end
to another. When these connectors are used in a measurement system,
repeatability becomes an important factor.
Lightwave connectors dier from electrical or microwave system
connectors. In a ber optic system, light is transmitted through an extremely
small ber core. Because ber cores are often 62.5 microns (0.0625 mm) or
less in diameter, and dust particles range from tenths of a micron to several
microns in diameter, dust and very minute contamination on the end of the
ber core can degrade the performance of the connector interface (where the
two cores meet). Therefore, the connector must be precisely aligned and the
connector interface free of trapped foreign material.
Connector (or insertion) loss is one important performance characteristic
of a lightwave connector. Typical values are less than 1 dB of loss, and
sometimes as little as 0.1 dB of loss with high performance connectors.
2-9
Installation and Preparation for Use
Lightwave Connector Care
Return loss is another important factor. It is a measure of re ection: the less
re ection the better (the larger the return loss, the smaller the re ection).
The best physically contacting connectors have return losses better than
40 dB, although 20 to 30 dB is more common.
Causes of connector loss and re ections include core misalignment,
dierences in the numerical aperture of two bers, spacing and air gaps,
re ections caused by damaged, worn, or loose ber ends, and the improper
use and removal of index matching compounds.
Achieving the best possible connection, where the ber end faces are ush
(no air gap) and properly aligned, depends on two things:
1. the type of connector.
2. using the proper cleaning and connecting techniques. If the connection is
lossy or re ective, light will not make a smooth transition. If the transition
is not smooth or the connection is not repeatable, measurement data will
be less accurate. For this reason, lightwave connections can make a critical
dierence in optical measurement systems.
2-10
Installation and Preparation for Use
Lightwave Connector Care
Cleaning and handling
Proper cleaning and handling of lightwave connectors is imperative for
achieving accurate and repeatable measurements with your Agilent
Technologies lightwave equipment. Lightwave interfaces should be cleaned
before each measurement using the techniques described in this handbook.
Information on protecting and storing your connectors/cables and tips on how
to properly mate connectors are also included in this section.
De nition of terms To avoid confusion, the following de nitions are used in this handbook.
Connector Houses the ber end, most open at the end of a lightwave
cable or on the front panel of an instrument or accessory.
Adapter Does not contain optical ber. Used to mate two optical
connectors.
Handling Always handle lightwave connectors and cable ends with great care. Fiber
ends should never be allowed to touch anything except other mating surfaces
or cleaning solutions and tools.
Always keep connectors and cable ends covered with a protective cap when
they are not in use. (See \Storage.")
Cleaning Three cleaning processes are provided. The rst process describes how to
clean non-lensed lightwave connectors. The second process describes how to
clean lightwave adapters. The third process describes how to care for lensed
lightwave connections.
Agilent Technologies strongly recommends that index matching compounds
CAUTION
NOT be applied to their Instruments and accessories. Some compounds, such
as gels, may be dicult to remove and can contain damaging particulates. If
you think the use of such compounds is necessary, refer to the compound
manufacturer for information on application and cleaning procedures.
2-11
Installation and Preparation for Use
Lightwave Connector Care
Cleaning non-lensed lightwave connectors
Equipment The following is a list of the items that should be used to clean non-lensed
lightwave connectors.
Any commercially available denatured alcohol
Cotton swabs : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : Agilent part number 8520-0023
Compressed air : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : Agilent part number 8500-5262
CAUTION
Agilent Technologies recommends that you do not use any type of foam swab
to clean optical ber ends. Foam swabs can leave lmy deposits on ber ends
that can degrade performance.
Process Before cleaning the ber end, clean the ferrules and other parts of the
connector. Use isopropyl alcohol, clean cotton swabs, and clean compressed
air. Then use alcohol to clean the ber end. Some amount of wiping or mild
scrubbing of the ber end can help remove particles when application of
alcohol alone will not remove them. This can be done by applying the alcohol
to a cotton swab and moving it back and forth across the ber end several
times. This technique can help remove or displace particles smaller than one
micron.
Allow the connector to dry (about a minute) or dry it immediately with clean
compressed air. Compressed air lessens the chance of deposits remaining on
the ber end after the alcohol evaporates. It should be blown horizontally
across the ber end. Visually inspect the ber end for stray cotton bers. As
soon as the connector is dry, the connection should be made.
CAUTION
Inverting the compressed air canister while spraying will produce residue on
the sprayed surface. Refer to instructions provided on the compressed air
canister.
2-12
Installation and Preparation for Use
Lightwave Connector Care
Cleaning lightwave adapters
Equipment All of the items listed above for cleaning connectors may be used to clean
lightwave adapters. In addition, small foam swabs may be used along
with isopropyl alcohol and compressed air to clean the inside of lightwave
connector adapters.
NOTE
As noted in a previous caution statement, the foam swabs can leave lmy deposits. These deposits
are very thin however, and the risk of other contamination buildup on the inside of adapters greatly
outweighs the risk of contamination of foam swab deposits left from cleaning the inside of adapters.
Process Clean the adapter by applying isopropyl alcohol to the inside of the connector
with a foam swab. Allow the adapter to air dry, or dry it immediately with
clean compressed air.
Cleaning lensed connections
Some instruments may have a connector that is \lensed." In other words, the
connection does not provide a physically contacting connection, but the light
is received into a lens rather than into a connecting ber. These receiving
lenses usually have an anti-re ective coating that is very easily damaged.
Therefore, these connectors should NEVER have cleaning solutions or any
other substance applied to them unless it is speci cally recommended by the
manufacturer. You may wish to use clean compressed air to rid them of dust
from time to time.
2-13
Installation and Preparation for Use
Lightwave Connector Care
Storage
All of Agilent Technologies' lightwave instruments are shipped with either
laser shutter caps or dust caps on the lightwave adapters that come with the
instrument. Also, all of the cables that are shipped have covers to protect the
cable ends from damage or contamination. These dust caps and protective
covers should be kept on the equipment at all times except when in use.
The adapters that were shipped on your instrument can be removed from
the connectors on the instrument. If you remove these adapters you should
keep the exposed connector of your instrument covered until the next use.
Protective covers for these exposed connectors are not provided with the
instruments, so it is best to keep the adapters on the instrument with the
dust covers on.
The list below provides the Agilent part numbers for the laser shutter cap
and dust caps that are provided with lightwave instruments and accessories.
Item Agilent Part No. Connector Option
Laser shutter cap 08145-64521 All options
FC/PC dust cap 08154-44102 opt 012
Biconic dust cap 08154-44105 opt 015
DIN dust cap 5040-9364 opt 013
HMS 10 dust cap 5040-9361 opt 011
ST dust cap 5040-9366 opt 014
SC dust cap 1401-0253 opt 017
2-14
Installation and Preparation for Use
Lightwave Connector Care
Making connections
Proper connection technique requires attention to connector compatibility,
insertion technique and torque requirements. Connectors must be the same
connector type in order to ensure mechanical and optical compatibility.
Attempting to connect incompatible connector types may prevent the
connection from functioning properly and even cause damage to the ber
surfaces. A visual inspection of the mechanical interfaces may not be
enough because some connector types have the same mechanical interface
but have dierent optical ber interfaces (for example, angled-no-contact,
angled-contact or straight-contact ber interfaces). Refer to the
manufacturer's data sheet to con rm connector type compatibility before
connecting.
When you insert the ferrule into a connector or adapter, make sure that the
ber end does not touch the outside of the mating connector or adapter. In
this way, you will not rub the ber end against any undesirable surface.
Many connectors have a keyed slot provided for optimum measurement
repeatability that also helps to align and seat the two connectors. After the
ferrule is properly seated inside the other connector, use one hand to keep it
straight, rotate it to align the key, and tighten it with the other hand.
Most connectors using springs to push ber ends together exert one to two
pounds of force. Over-tightening or under-tightening these connectors can
result in misalignment and nonrepeatable measurements. Always nger
tighten the connector in a consistent manner. Refer to the manufacturer's
data sheet for any torque recommendations.
2-15
Installation and Preparation for Use
Lightwave Connector Care
Summary
When making measurements with lightwave instruments or accessories,
the following precautions will help to insure good, reliable, repeatable
measurements:
Con rm connector type compatibility.
Use extreme care in handling all lightwave cables and connectors.
Be sure the connector interfaces are clean before making any connections.
Use the cleaning methods described in this handbook.
Keep connectors and cable ends covered when not in use.
Inspection
Visual inspection Although it is not necessary, visual inspection of ber ends can be helpful.
Contamination and/or imperfections on the cable endface can be detected as
well as cracks or chips in the ber itself.
Several ber inspection scopes are on the market, but any microscope with
an enlargement range of 1002 to 2002 can be used. It is helpful to devise
some method to hold the ber in place while viewing in this range.
Inspect the entire endface for contamination, raised metal, or dents in the
metal, as well as any other imperfections. Inspect the ber core for cracks
and chips.
Visible imperfections not touching the ber core may not aect the
performance of the lightwave connection (unless the imperfections keep
the bers from contacting). Consistent optical measurements are the best
assurance that your lightwave connection is performing properly.
2-16
Installation and Preparation for Use
Lightwave Connector Care
Optical performance testing
Introduction Consistent measurements with your lightwave equipment are a good
indication that you have good connections. However, you may wish to know
the insertion loss and/or return loss of your lightwave cables or accessories. If
you test your cables and accessories for insertion loss and return loss upon
receipt, and retain the measured data for comparison, you will be able to tell
in the future if any degradation has occurred.
Insertion loss Insertion loss can be tested using a number of dierent test equipment
con gurations. Some of these are:
an Agilent 8702 or Agilent 8703 lightwave component analyzer system with
the lightwave source and receivers
an Agilent 83420 lightwave test set with an Agilent 8510 network analyzer,
an Agilent 8153 lightwave multimeter with source and power sensor
modules
Many other possibilities exist. The basic requirements are an appropriate
lightwave source and a compatible lightwave receiver. Refer to the manuals
provided with your lightwave test equipment for information on how to
perform an insertion loss test.
As mentioned earlier in this handbook, typical insertion loss for cables is less
than 1 dB, and can be as little as 0.1 dB. For actual speci cations on your
particular cable or accessory, refer to the manufacturer.
2-17
Installation and Preparation for Use
Return loss Return loss can be tested using a number of dierent test equipment
con gurations. Some of these are:
an Agilent 8703 lightwave component analyzer
an Agilent 8702 analyzer with the appropriate source, receiver and
lightwave coupler
an Agilent 8504 precision re ectometer
an Agilent 8153 lightwave multimeter with an Agilent 81543 return loss
module
Many other possibilities exist. The basic requirements are an appropriate
lightwave source, a compatible lightwave receiver, and a compatible
lightwave coupler.
Refer to the manuals provided with your lightwave test equipment for
information on how to perform a return loss test.
As mentioned earlier in this handbook, typical return loss is better than 20
to 30 dB, and can be better than 40 dB. For actual speci cations on your
particular cable or accessory, refer to the manufacturer.
2-18
3
Using the Agilent 11896A
Polarization Controller
Using the Agilent 11896A
Polarization Controller
What you'll nd in this chapter
Agilent 11896A series front-panel features.
Agilent 11896A series rear-panel features.
Instructions for manually operating the polarization controller.
3-2
Front-Panel Features
The front panel of the polarization controller includes three main sections:
Polarization adjustment
Instrument state
Data entry
3-3
Using the Agilent 11896A
Polarization Controller
Front-Panel Features
The front panel includes a display and four knobs for adjusting the paddles.
The right-most knob is also used to adjust the scan rate, the SAVE and
RECALL register numbers, and the GPIB address when using the front-panel
function keys.
The Agilent 11896A front panel.
1 Display screen. Used to display paddle positions and
instrument settings.
2 Status indicators. Indicates the current status of the RMT,
LSN, TLK, and SRC lines.
3 Polarization adjustment keys. Includes the 4MANUAL5,
4AUTO SCAN5, and 4SCAN RATE5 keys.
4 Instrument state keys. Includes the 4SAVE5, 4RECALL5, and
4LOCAL5 keys.
5 Data entry keys. Includes the 4CANCEL5 and 4ENTER5 keys.
3-4
Using the Agilent 11896A
Polarization Controller
Front-Panel Features