Product Bulletin
VA5B and VA6B Series
Precision Variable
Attenuators
Description
The VA5B and VA6B Series of precision variable
attenuators are portable instruments for system testing in
the field as well as test and development applications in the
laboratory. These attenuators provide continuously variable
attenuation of 50 to 70 dB with calibration wavelengths of
830, 1300, or 1550 nm.
The VA5B and VA6B Series attenuators are based on
JDS FITELs ultra-linear attenuator prism and highly reliable
microlens technology, combined with a micrometer and
electronic display of attenuation. The result is highly
accurate, continuously variable attenuation, combined with
low insertion loss and excellent return loss.
The attenuators are available in single-mode and multimode
versions. The VA5B attenuator is equipped with 3 mm cable
pigtails, with or without connectors, of which most major
types are available. The VA6B attenuator has the same
package as the VA5B attenuator, but has panel-mounted PC
or APC universal connector adapters (UCA) supporting FC/
PC, SC/PC, and ST/PC, or FC/APC and SC/APC connector
types.
The VA5B and VA6B Series attenuators are available with an
analog option with high return loss and low spectral ripple
for CATV AM systems. Attenuators with this option have
extra-smooth wavelength response to avoid causing
distortion, and they also have >60 dB return loss.
Key Features
Highly precise attenuation
0.01 dB resolution
Low insertion loss
Return loss >60 dB
Portable
Long battery life
Universal connector adapters (UCAs)
Applications
Precise power control
Receiver testing
Field system testing
Power meter linearity checks
Tel. (613) 727-1303
Fax. (613) 727-8284
sales@jdsfitel.com
www.jdsfitel.com
JDS FITEL Inc.
570 West Hunt Club Rd.
Nepean (Ottawa), Ontario
K2G 5W8 CANADA
All information contained herein is believed to be accurate and is subject to change without notice. No responsibility is assumed for its use. As this is a new/advanced product,
JDS FITEL or manufacturer are likely to make changes, and reserves the right to do so, without notice, to product design, product components, and product manufacturing methods. Some
specific combinations of options may not be available. Please contact JDS FITEL for more information.
© JDS FITEL Inc. All rights reserved. MKT-DS-0099 Rev. E 03/99 Printed in Canada
Page 2
Specifications
Parameter 830 nm 1300 nm 1550 nm
Wavelength range1single-mode (SM) 750 to 1000 nm 1200 to 1700 nm 1200 to 1700 nm
multimode (MM) 750 to 1700 nm 750 to 1700 nm 1200 to 1700 nm
Attenuation range2SM 70 dB 60 dB 60 dB
MM 70 dB 50 dB 60 dB
Attenuation resolution20.01 dB
repeatability 0.02 dB
accuracy2,3,5 ±0.1 dB or ±0.02 dB/dB, whichever is greater
Insertion loss2,4,5 ≤1.5 dB
Return loss3SM >45 dB
SM, analog >60 dB
MM, 50/125 >35 dB
MM, other >30 dB
Maximum optical input power 200 mW
Recalibration period (recommended) 2 years
Polarization dependent loss4≤0.08 dB
Connectors VA5B pigtail mounted
VA6B bulkhead mounted universal PC or APC
Operating temperature 0 to 50 °C
Storage temperature -40 to 60 °C
Humidity 95% up to 40 °C, 60% above 40 °C
1. Recommended wavelength range for acceptable insertion loss and attenuation
slope.
2. At calibration wavelength.
3. Except below 3 dB attenuation, measured with a laser source.
Ordering Information
Indicate your requirements by selecting one option from each configuration table. Please print the corresponding codes in the
available boxes to form your part number. For more information on this or other products and their availability, please contact
your local JDS FITEL sales representative, or JDS FITEL directly at (613)727-1303, or by fax at (613)727-8284, or via e-mail at
sales@jdsfitel.com. Sample: VA5B71+1KFP0
Code Connector Type
NC No connector
FP FC/HPC
FA FC/APC
SC SC/HPC
SU SC/APC
SP ST/HPC
VA5B and VA6B Series
4. Not including connectors, if installed.
5. Including bulkhead mounted UCA, the VA6B unit has an insertion loss of
≤2.5 dB.
VA B+1
Code Calibrated Wavelength (nm)
9 830
3 1300
1 1550
Code Port Type
5 Pigtails
6 UCA bulkheads
Code Fiber Type (µm)
1 50/125
2 62.5/125
4 100/140
7 9/125
Code Return Loss (>)
K Low (45 dB)
A Analog (60 dB)
Code Carry Case
0 Without
1 With
