EXFO Inc. (NASDAQ: EXFO) (TSX: EXF) has released what it asserts is the fastest component test system for insertion loss (IL) and return loss (RL) measurement for an array of passive components, such as photonics integrated circuits. The CTP10 component test platform combines technology obtained from EXFO's acquisition of test and measurement instrument developer Yenista Optics in September of 2017 (see "EXFO eyes Yenista Optics acquisition"). The new CTP10 platform can be used by research scientists to characterize components, or in automated mode for high volume production, says EXFO.
The growing demand for photonics integrated circuits (PICs) comprised of hundreds of passive components, and for lowering network equipment costs have contributed to passive component manufacturers' need to decrease their testing time, while maintaining accuracy and reliability. According to EXFO, the CTP10 component test platform has a capability to measure IL and RL in a single sweep up to 1000 Nmps to address these challenges.
"When EXFO acquired Yenista, the objective was to leverage their expertise to bring some of the most innovative testing solutions for the optical telecom industry," said Stéphane Chabot, EXFO's vice president, test and measurement. "EXFO's CTP10 offers R&D and manufacturing teams working with photonics integrated circuits and next-generation passive optical network components the flexibility, accuracy, and speed they need to test thousands of components as required by their customers."
This announcement follows EXFO's release earlier this year of SkyRAN, a remote access test and monitoring system for fiber-optic wireless fronthaul networks such as those envisioned for 5G mobile. (see "EXFO SkyRAN provides wireless fronthaul test and monitoring").
EXFO will demonstrate the CTP10 at OFC 2018 this week in San Diego, CA. Attendees can learn more about the new Component Test Platform by visiting Booth 2507.
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