13 August 2002 -- Tektronix has launched an optical module series that it claims will enable equipment manufacturers to cut cost and complexity of their test operations.
The OSW 8000 Series optical switching modules allow optical equipment designers and manufacturing test engineers to use these tools to reduce costs without compromising "test productivity". This series is the first to result from Tektronix' March 2002 acquisition of Profile Optische Systeme GmbH.
Rick King, Tektronix's VP, Optical Business, said: "The OSW 8000 Series leverages optical test equipment investments through efficient distribution of multi-channel test signals. The modules integrate into users' existing bench setups and test systems."
A single-source test signal may be switched to as many as eight destinations. Conversely, one destination can receive its input from up to eight different sources. It is possible to assemble a multi-channel DWDM BERT solution at a fraction of the cost of purchasing a separate BERT for each channel.
Either General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB) commands or local control sequences from the PRO 8000 can be used to activate the switches. Using the OSW 8000 series with the PRO 8000 forms an integrated solution that combines DWDM laser sources and switching functions.
This arrangement minimises hardware costs and conserves space, which is at a premium in cleanroom environments and manufacturing areas. The modules include LabView® and LabWindows®/CVI drivers to provide an easy-to-use programming environment.