Optical Spectrum Analyzer (OSA)

What is an Optical Spectrum Analyzer?

Fundamentally, an Optical Spectrum Analyzer (or OSA) is an instrument designed to measure and display the distribution of power of an optical source over a specified wavelength span. The absolute power of the signal is typically displayed in dBm and the wavelength of the signal is typically expressed in nanometers (nm). The instrument can also be set to display alternate units such as Milliwatts (mW) for Power in the vertical scale and THz for frequency in the horizontal scale.

Why use an Optical Spectrum Analyzer?

There are numerous methods for measuring spectral information in the industry. These solutions include Spectrophotometers, FTIR or CCD based spectrometers to name a few, Despite the multitude of alternate spectroscopy solutions available, a traditional monochromator based Optical Spectrum Analyzer is considered by many to be the most useful and conveniently packaged solution for many reasons. These reasons include:

·         Broad wavelength range

·         High resolution and level sensitivity

·         Fast measurement sweep speed

·         Self-Contained stand-alone system with a built-in display screen

·         A stable, reliable and repeatable platform

·         Built-in data analysis features

·         Built-in calibration light source to ensure accuracy (Standard on all Yokogawa models, added cost option for most others)

·         Certified Calibrations

·         Multiple built-in remote control ports

·         Standardized interface software and drivers

Who needs an Optical Spectrum Analyzer?

The number of new optics related applications has experienced tremendous growth and has created a vast variety of industries/organizations that require advanced optical spectral measurements. These industries span across a multitude of sectors including; Telecommunications, Consumer Electronics, Healthcare, Life Science/Medical Research, Security, Sensing, Microscopy, and Gas/Chemical Analysis, and Environmental Monitoring just to name a few. More specifically, below is a summary of the categories of OSA users.

·         Optical Component Suppliers (Lasers Diodes, LEDs, Optical Transceivers, etc.)

·         Communications Equipment/System Manufacturers (Network Equipment, Laser Systems, Biotech Systems)

·         Internet/Voice/Data Service Providers, Carriers (Telcos, Wireless backhaul, Cable TVs, Video sites, Cloud services)

·         Universities, Educational organizations

·         Research Labs (Private and Government)

·         Government Agencies and Sub-Contractors

·         Aerospace Companies

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