Announced live in the Product Focus Theatre, the ECOC (European Conference on Optical Communication) Awards celebrate notable achievements in areas such as optical communications, fibre-based products, and photonic integration circuits.
The AQ6370E stood out for addressing the growing demand for high-precision tools capable of measuring and analysing the optical spectrum of components and light sources in high-capacity, high-speed optical communication networks. Specifically designed to aid the development of next-generation optical devices and components, the analyser also finds applications in photonics-electronics convergence (PEC) and silicon photonics technology enhancement.
As multiplexing technologies push bandwidth capabilities further, the need for precise, fast, and user-friendly testing instruments has surged. Yokogawa Test&Measurement developed the AQ6370E with these demands in mind.
The AQ6370E boasts a broad wavelength range of 600–1700 nm, enabling it to characterise a wide variety of components, such as lasers for optical communications, optical transceivers, and optical amplifiers. It can also measure both high-power sources like pump lasers for Raman amplifiers and optical amplifiers, as well as very low-intensity optical signals. Users can choose from seven sensitivity levels tailored to different test applications and measurement speed requirements.
The judges at the ECOC Awards were particularly impressed by the device’s innovative features that simplify both development and production. For example, the unique free-space input design allows users to test both DWDM-class single-mode and VCSEL-sourced multimode fibres using the same device.
Additionally, the AQ6370E-20 high-performance model offers an HCDR (High Close-in Dynamic Range) mode, which sharpens the spectrum around the peak and makes side modes more visible when analysing single longitudinal mode lasers. The SMSR (Side-Mode Suppression Ratio) function, with two sensitivity settings, accelerates testing by measuring a laser’s SMSR up to twice as fast as traditional sensitivity modes.
The development of the AQ6370E was driven by customer feedback and Yokogawa’s 40-plus years of experience in the optical market. This innovative analyser enables developers to optimise their optical designs and improve the efficiency and capability of digital communications. Yokogawa Test&Measurement is honoured to receive the ECOC ‘Most Innovative Test Equipment’ Award and recognises that continuous innovation is crucial to supporting industry, academia, and research institutions in maintaining their competitive edge.
