PhotonCom BLS Series ASE Broadband Light Source
PhotonCom BLS Series Amplified Spontaneous Emission (ASE) Light Source is a self-contained, rack-mount optical source designed to deliver high optical power and spectral density across a wide wavelength range. Available C-Band and C+L-Band configurations provide stable, low-coherence output with low ripple and a flat spectrum. The BLS Series supports DWDM component characterization, fiber optic sensing, Fiber Bragg Grating interrogation, and optical measurement systems. Additional output-power configurations are available upon request.
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PhotonCom BLS Series ASE Broadband Light Source
The PhotonCom BLS Series Amplified Spontaneous Emission (ASE) Light Source is an ultra-stable, self-contained optical source designed for applications requiring high optical power across a broad wavelength spectrum. Its rack-mount design provides the spectral density required for laboratory, telecommunications, fiber optic sensing, and automated optical measurement systems.
C-Band models cover wavelengths from 1528 nm to 1564 nm, while C+L-Band configurations extend coverage from 1528 nm to 1608 nm. This wide spectral range is well suited to Fiber Bragg Grating sensor interrogation and broadband optical component evaluation.
Key Features and Benefits
- High spectral density: Delivers broadband optical output for measurement and characterization applications.
- High spectral stability: Helps maintain consistent test conditions during extended measurements.
- Low ripple and flat spectrum: Supports reliable measurements across the operating wavelength range.
- Low coherence: Suitable for sensing and optical characterization systems requiring broadband illumination.
- C-Band and C+L-Band configurations: Provides wavelength coverage for different photonic testing requirements.
- Remote connectivity: Includes RS232 and Ethernet interfaces, with an optional GPIB interface available.
- Rack-mount design: Supports integration into laboratory and automated optical test systems.
Applications
- Dense Wavelength-Division Multiplexing (DWDM) component characterization
- Fiber optic sensing
- Fiber Bragg Grating sensor interrogation
- Optical measurement and characterization systems
- Replacement of aging or discontinued ASE light sources
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | 18 dBm C-Band | 18 dBm C+L-Band | 23 dBm C-Band |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Output Power | 18 dBm | 18 dBm | 23 dBm |
| Minimum Output Power | 17 dBm | 17 dBm | 22 dBm |
| Minimum Spectral Density | -3 dBm/nm | -10 dBm/nm | 0 dBm/nm |
| Output-Power Stability Over 8 Hours | ±0.04 dB | ±0.04 dB | ±0.04 dB |
| Operating Wavelength | 1528 nm to 1564 nm | 1528 nm to 1608 nm | 1528 nm to 1564 nm |
| Spectral Flatness | 7 dB typical; 8 dB maximum | 7 dB typical; 8 dB maximum | 7 dB typical; 8 dB maximum |
| Output Isolation | > 40 dB | > 40 dB | > 40 dB |
| Degree of Polarization | < 2% | < 2% | < 2% |
| Optical Connector | FC/APC | FC/APC | FC/APC |
| Optical Fiber | SMF-28 | SMF-28 | SMF-28 |
| Computer Interfaces | RS232 and Ethernet | RS232 and Ethernet | RS232 and Ethernet |
| Available Options | Rear fiber output; GPIB interface | Rear fiber output; GPIB interface | Rear fiber output; GPIB interface |
Output-power stability applies at a constant ambient temperature of ±0.25 °C following a one-hour warm-up.
Ordering Information
Configure the PhotonCom BLS Series ASE Broadband Light Source by selecting the spectral range, output power, and required options.
Ordering Code Format
BLS-[Spectral Range]-[Output Power]DOP-[Options]
1. Spectral Range
C
1528 nm to 1564 nm
CL
1528 nm to 1608 nm
2. Output Power
18
18 dBm typical output power
23
23 dBm typical output power (C-Band model)
3. Available Options
Separate multiple options with a forward slash: /
GPIB
IEEE-488 remote interface
R
Rear fiber output
Ordering Example
BLS-C-18DOP-GPIB/R
C-Band model with 18 dBm typical output power, an IEEE-488 GPIB interface, and rear fiber output.
Custom configurations and additional output-power options are available upon request.
PhotonCom Sales and Product Support
PhotonCom is the brand name of Simbol Test Systems' customized product line. Simbol Test Systems provides product sales, technical support, repair, calibration, firmware upgrades, and custom photonic system development where applicable.
Contact Simbol Test Systems to discuss wavelength coverage, output-power requirements, optional interfaces, custom configurations, system integration, or replacement of an existing ASE light source.