EXFO FTB-3500 Variable Optical Attenuator - Product Overview
The EXFO FTB-3500 is a modular programmable optical attenuator specifically designed for integration with EXFO's FTB series test platforms. With its exceptional measurement accuracy and system compatibility, it serves as an ideal solution for optical communication equipment manufacturers and network service providers conducting production line testing and field maintenance. Below is a detailed introduction covering four key aspects: core specifications, technical features, application scenarios, and system integration.
1. Key Specifications Table
| Parameter Category | Technical Specifications | Notes |
|---|
| Wavelength Range | 1280-1620 nm | Covers O/E/S/C/L bands |
| Attenuation Range | 0-60 dB | Minimum step size: 0.05 dB |
| Insertion Loss | ≤1.2 dB (typical) | Includes connector loss |
| Return Loss | ≥55 dB | High reflection suppression design |
| Resolution | 0.005 dB | Ultra-high precision mode |
| Repeatability | ±0.03 dB | Temperature compensation technology |
| Connector Type | FC/APC (standard) | Optional FC/PC or SC/APC |
| Maximum Input Power | 600 mW | Supports high-power testing |
| Communication Interface | USB/RS-232/GPIB | SCPI remote control support |
| Response Time | <5 ms | Fast stabilization mode |
2. Technical Features
Intelligent Temperature Compensation
Built-in high-precision temperature sensor provides real-time compensation for environmental variations, ensuring long-term stability of ±0.03 dB.
Multi-mode Operation
Supports manual adjustment, automatic scanning, and external trigger modes, with programmable storage for 10 attenuation curves.
High Power Handling
Special thermal design enables continuous operation with 600 mW optical input power, suitable for active device testing like EDFAs.
Seamless System Integration
Enables synchronized testing with OSA and optical switches via EXFO TestFlow software, supporting Python customization.
3. Application Scenarios & Testing Solutions
| Application Scenario | Testing Requirements | Recommended Equipment |
|---|
| Optical Module Production Testing | Tx power calibration, Rx sensitivity | EXFO FTB-1 Pro Test Platform |
| DWDM System Maintenance | Channel power equalization & monitoring | EXFO FTB-500 OSA Module |
| FTTH Network Acceptance | PON system power attenuation simulation | EXFO FTB-200 Handheld Tester |
| Laboratory R&D | Nonlinear optical characteristics research | EXFO OSICS Platform |
4. System Compatibility
Hardware Compatibility:
Plug-and-play design compatible with all FTB-200/500/700 series platform slots
Software Compatibility:
Native support for EXFO TestFlow, LinkWare, and other professional software with automated report generation
Protocol Compatibility:
Supports SCPI, Telnet, SNMP and other control protocols for third-party automation systems
5. Product Advantages Summary
Test-grade Precision: 0.005 dB resolution meets stringent production line requirements
Industrial-grade Reliability: MTBF>50,000 hours for 24/7 continuous operation
Full-scenario Coverage: End-to-end solutions from lab R&D to field maintenance
Smart IoT-ready: Supports cloud data storage and analysis for Industry 4.0 transformation
