Bristol 828A Optical Wavelength Meter

Overview

The Bristol 828A is a precision optical wavelength meter designed for rapid, accurate measurement of tunable transmitter lasers in WDM (wavelength-division multiplexing) applications. Using a Fizeau etalon design with fast InGaAs photodetector array technology, the instrument achieves a sustained measurement rate of 1 kHz, dramatically reducing production test time for WDM transceivers and optical components.

The 828A combines high sensitivity (minimum input power of -40 dBm or 0.1 µW) with automatic attenuation adjustment and on-board digital signal processing. A touch-screen interface provides convenient control and data display, while multiple interface options (RS-422, USB, Ethernet, and optional GPIB) support various integration scenarios and data streaming applications.

Key Features

• 1 kHz sustained measurement rate for efficient production testing
• Wavelength accuracy of ±0.3 pm with measurement confidence ≥99.7%
• Wavelength range from 1250 to 1650 nm covering C and L optical bands
• Power measurement accuracy to ±0.5 dB
• High sensitivity with -40 dBm minimum input power requirement
• Automatic attenuation adjustment for optimum performance across input power levels
• Touch-screen display for intuitive instrument control and data reporting
• Internal data buffer for storage of up to one million measurements
• Multiple interface options: RS-422 serial, USB, Ethernet, and optional GPIB
• NIST traceable calibration with built-in wavelength standard
• Rugged design engineered for manufacturing environments

Applications

• WDM transceiver production and characterization testing
• Tunable laser wavelength verification and certification
• Optical component manufacturing quality control
• Wavelength calibration and standards traceability verification
• Research and development of optical transmission systems