Product Bulletin
JDS Uniphase manual backreflectors provide
precise levels of return loss to transmitters,
which allows measurements of system sensitivity
or system degradation as a function of
backreflection. When used with a transmitter/
receiver pair and characterization equipment,
the backreflectors can be used to establish the
magnitude of reflections that significantly
degrade transmission system performance and
to characterize the problems they cause.
The backreflectors use JDS Uniphase's ultra
-linear attenuator prism and highly reliable
microlens technology, combined with a
micrometer with electronic display of return
loss. Two configurations of the VB8B
backreflectors are available; no coupler and
fused coupler.
The no coupler version has a single pigtail used
as both an input and an output port. It can be
used to generate very large levels of reflection.
Alternatively, it can be used with an external
coupler of the desired ratio to build
customized reflection test sets.
The fused coupler version is equipped with a
fused fiber coupler that splits the light,
providing monitor and output ports as well as
an input port. This version supplies lower
maximum backreflection than the no coupler
version because part of the input light is
diverted to the output port. The monitor and
output ports allow measurements to be made
using a transmitter and a receiver.
The backreflectors are battery-powered, which
provides portability and compact packaging.
Measurement Usage
· Specify the maximum allowable reflection
level for connectors, receiver pigtails, and
attenuators
· Verify optical isolator performance
· Select the most appropriate reflection-
insensitive light source for the system
Key Features & Benefits
· Operation at 1300 or 1550 nm
· 0.02 dB resolution
· Low polarization sensitivity
· Constant insertion loss
·Long battery life
Applications
·Transmitter/receiver development and testing
·Reflection test for connectors
· Quality assurance acceptance testing
·Laser development and production
Variable Optical
Backreflectors
(VB8B Series)
JDS Uniphase Corporation Tel 613 727-1303
570 West Hunt Club Road Fax 613 727-8284
Nepean (Ottawa), Ontario instruments@jdsuniphase.com
K2G 5W8 Canada www.jdsuniphase.com
All information contained herein is believed to be accurate and is subject to change
without notice. No responsibility is assumed for its use. JDS Uniphase Corporation, its
subsidiaries and affiliates, or manufacturer, reserve the right to make changes, without
notice, to product design, product components, and product manufacturing methods.
Some specific combinations of options may not be available. Please contact JDS
Uniphase for more information. ©JDS Uniphase Corporation. All rights reserved.
Variable Optical
Backreflectors
(VB8B Series) | 2
Ordering Information
Indicate your requirements by selecting one
option from each configuration table. Print
the corresponding codes in the available
boxes to form your part number.
For more information on this or other
products and their availability, contact your
local JDS Uniphase sales representative or
JDS Uniphase directly.
Specifications
PARAMETER NO COUPLER FUSED COUPLER (30/70)
Calibration wavelengths 1300 or 1550 nm 1300 or 1550 nm
Maximum backreflection level1≥ - 1.5 dB ≥ - 9.0 dB
Minimum backreflection level1≤ - 50 dB ≤ - 45 dB
Linear range ≥ 30 dB ≥ 25 dB
Insertion loss1(IN to OUT) - ≤ 5 dB
Calibration accuracy2± 0.2 dB ± 0.5 dB
Maximum optical input power 200 mW 200 mW
Standard fiber type all ports single-mode 9/125 µm cabled fiber with 3 mm jacket
Pigtail length ≥ 1.5 m
Polarization dependent loss ≤ 1.0 dB
Resolution/setting capability 0.02 dB
Operating temperature 0-40 °C
Storage temperature - 40-60 °C
Humidity maximum 95 % up to 40 °C, 60 % above 40 °C non-condensing
1. With respect to input level and excluding external components or connectors (if installed).
2. In linear range with unpolarized input.
Sample Order: VB8B711+2ASU0
VB8B7 +2A
CODE CALIBRATED WAVELENGTH (nm)
3 1300
1 1550
CODE CONNECTOR TYPE
FP FC/HPC
FA FC/APC
SC SC/HPC
SU SC/APC
SP ST/HPC
NC No connector
CODE MODEL
0 No Coupler
1 Fused Coupler
CODE CARRY CASE
0 Without
1 With
MKT-DS-0113 Rev. 500 01/03/01
