DiCon Fiberoptics' optical channel performance monitor (OCPM), based on its MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) tunable filters and its MEMS 1xN switches, is part of its reconfigurable network elements line.

Building on a common platform, the OCPM offers customizable configurations. The MEMS tunable filter can be matched with a variety of components. MEMS 1xN switches, photo detectors and FBT splitters are available options.

The OCPM has a compact form factor of 75 x 100 x 12.1 mm. It sweeps quickly over a 35-nm range with extremely consistent and repeatable performance. The resolution is adjustable, and a step size as fine as 0.01 nm (that’s 3500 data points) can be achieved, allowing for quick viewing or detailed scanning of the network.

Different filter spectral shapes are available to give system integrators another degree of design freedom. For applications requiring accurate OSNR readings, a narrow spectrum can be chosen to provide good signal isolation. For situations where precise power reading on a chirping wavelength is desired, a wider spectrum can be selected to allow capturing of the fluctuating channel.

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