High-Resolution Reflectometer

28 January 2025 - Yokogawa Test & Measurement Corporation released AQ7420 high-resolution reflectometer. Utilizing OLCR (optical low-coherence reflectometry) technology, the AQ7420 is ideal for the internal structure analysis of optical modules and the visualization of microcracks in optical connectors. It provides a spatial resolution of 40 µm and exceptional back reflection measurement sensitivity down to -100 dB or lower, with no spurious noise. Combined with the optional sensor head unit, users can measure insertion loss simultaneously alongside back reflection, making the AQ7420 a highly efficient and cost-effective reflectometer for optical market applications.

Also released is control software for Windows 11, an optional dedicated sensor head for loss measurement, various master codes (compatible with a variety of connector types) and a distance adjustment code to adjust the measurement starting position.

Main Features

Principal among the main new features is the ability of the AQ7420 to reduce spurious noise. With conventional OLCR/OFDR technology-based devices, spurious (ghost) noise is often observable in areas where there is no actual reflection (depending on the characteristics of the equipment), leading to misjudgments. In such situations, correct waveform analysis relies heavily on users with specialist knowledge. In contrast, the new AQ7420 features technology that greatly reduces spurious noise, with ease-of-analysis among its prominent attributes.

Another feature of note is the potential to measure back reflection and insertion loss simultaneously. Conventional OLCR/OFDR instruments are often unable to inspect back reflection amount accurately due to the poor measurement accuracy of the vertical axis (amount of reflection level). The AQ7420 high-resolution reflectometer counters this issue by enabling measurement with an uncertainty of ±3dB. Furthermore, by taking advantage of the optical sensor head, users can measure insertion loss simultaneously with an uncertainty of ±0.02dB.

Another important feature is faster measurement time. Compared with the previous-generation product (AQ7410), the measurement time of the new AQ7420 high-resolution reflectometer is around 50% quicker, approximately 6 seconds compared with 12 seconds beforehand.

Applications

• Detecting the amount and location of reflections inside optical connectors and optical modules with high accuracy
• Visualizing microcracks inside optical connectors that cannot be seen using loss measurement techniques

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