1310 1490 1550 nm Optical Light Source

The Yamasaki TLU5 1310 1490 1550 nm Optical Light Source provides three selectable wavelengths for singlemode fibre loss testing. Furthermore, adjustable output power, Wave ID and tone generation support practical testing workflows. Pair it with a compatible optical power meter and suitable reference cables.

SKU: TLU5

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1310 1490 1550 nm Optical Light Source

The Yamasaki TLU5 1310 1490 1550 nm Optical Light Source provides three selectable wavelengths for singlemode fibre testing. Furthermore, adjustable output power, Wave ID and tone generation support practical testing workflows. When paired with a compatible optical power meter, it supports insertion loss measurements at the wavelengths your project requires. Therefore, request a Rapid Quote from Anderson Corporation to select a suitable source, power meter and reference cable combination.

Many singlemode testing tasks require 1310 nm and 1550 nm. However, some project specifications also call for 1490 nm measurements.

The TLU5 combines these three wavelengths in one handheld instrument. As a result, technicians can cover the specified wavelength combination without changing to a separate source.

Three Wavelengths for Singlemode Fibre Testing

The TLU5 provides selectable outputs at 1310 nm, 1490 nm and 1550 nm. Consequently, technicians can measure link performance at each wavelength required by their test plan.

Wavelength Testing purpose
1310 nm Singlemode insertion loss measurement at 1310 nm
1490 nm Additional singlemode measurement where the project specifies 1490 nm
1550 nm Singlemode insertion loss measurement at 1550 nm

Each output supplies test light at the selected wavelength. However, a measurement at one wavelength does not establish the link’s performance at the other two.

Therefore, test and record every wavelength required by the project specification. In addition, select the corresponding wavelength setting on the optical power meter.

The TLU5 supports singlemode fibre only. Consequently, projects requiring 850 nm and 1300 nm multimode testing need a suitable multimode light source.

Why Choose an Optical Light Source with 1490 nm?

A conventional 1310 nm and 1550 nm source covers many singlemode testing requirements. However, it cannot supply a 1490 nm test signal when the specification requires that additional wavelength.

The TLU5 includes all three outputs in one portable unit. As a result, it suits technicians whose workload regularly includes this particular wavelength combination.

Nevertheless, equipment selection should follow the test specification. Choose the TLU5 when your project calls for 1310 nm, 1490 nm and 1550 nm measurements.

Furthermore, the TLU5 does not include 1625 nm. Therefore, select a different source configuration if your testing procedure requires that wavelength.

Key Features of the Yamasaki TLU5

The TLU5 combines selectable wavelengths with practical controls for field and workshop use. In addition, its handheld format supports portable testing setups.

Key features include:

  • 1310 nm, 1490 nm and 1550 nm singlemode outputs.
  • Adjustable optical output power.
  • Continuous-wave operation and selectable modulation tones.
  • Wave ID generation for compatible receiving equipment.
  • An ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts LCD brightness.
  • FC, SC and ST connector compatibility through the supplied adaptor arrangement.
  • An optional LC adaptor.
  • Battery operation and an AC adaptor.
  • A power-saving feature.
  • A supplied instruction manual.
  • A 12-month warranty.

Together, these features support a flexible source-and-meter testing arrangement. Moreover, the automatic display adjustment helps technicians read the instrument as surrounding light conditions change.

Adjustable Optical Output Power

The TLU5 datasheet specifies adjustable output power from −12 dBm to −5 dBm. In addition, it lists adjustment steps below 0.5 dB.

This control lets technicians select an output level appropriate to the measurement setup. However, changing the source output after establishing a reference changes the basis of the loss measurement.

Therefore, establish the reference at the intended output setting. Then maintain that setting throughout the relevant test sequence.

If you change the output power, establish a new reference before continuing. Similarly, confirm that the expected received power falls within the optical power meter’s measurement range.

Pair the TLU5 with an Optical Power Meter

An optical light source supplies the test signal. Meanwhile, a compatible optical power meter measures the light received at the other end of the link.

Together, these instruments support insertion loss testing against an established reference. Consequently, the complete measurement setup matters as much as the source itself.

For a companion instrument, review the Yamasaki TPU1 Intelligent Optical Power Meter. In addition, confirm that its selected configuration meets your measurement and reporting requirements.

Before testing, check:

  • Power meter support for each required wavelength.
  • A suitable received-power measurement range.
  • Compatible connectors and reference cables.
  • The required referencing method.
  • Any result storage or download requirements.

Furthermore, Wave ID requires compatible receiving equipment. Therefore, confirm support for the intended source-and-meter combination before relying on automatic wavelength recognition.

Select Suitable Reference Cables

Reference cables form part of the measurement setup. Consequently, their fibre type, connector condition and compatibility affect the testing process.

Review the RapidConnect Reference Cable Kit when specifying your TLU5 testing equipment. In addition, identify the connector types and polish requirements at both ends of the link.

Choose reference cables that match the singlemode fibre and connector interfaces involved. Moreover, confirm compatibility at the instrument port and every intermediate connection.

The TLU5 datasheet identifies an FC/PC fibre port. Therefore, connector selection must account for polish compatibility as well as connector type.

Do not directly mate APC and PC/UPC connector end faces. Instead, use an appropriate cable and adaptor arrangement with compatible mating interfaces.

Before establishing a reference, inspect and clean the connections. Then follow the referencing method required by the project’s test procedure.

A Practical Insertion Loss Testing Workflow

A consistent setup helps technicians produce meaningful measurements. Therefore, establish the test conditions before measuring the installed link.

  1. First, confirm the required wavelengths and test procedure.
  2. Next, select compatible singlemode reference cables and adaptors.
  3. Before connecting, inspect and clean the connector end faces.
  4. Then set the source wavelength and output power.
  5. Similarly, set the power meter to the corresponding wavelength.
  6. Next, establish the reference using the specified method.
  7. After establishing the reference, connect the link and measure its insertion loss.
  8. Finally, repeat the process as required for the remaining wavelengths.

Throughout testing, maintain the reference connections as required by the chosen method. In addition, record each result against the correct fibre identification and wavelength.

Then compare the measured loss with the project’s specified limit. Although the TLU5 supplies the optical signal, it does not independently determine whether the installation passes.

Technical Specifications

The following specifications describe the TLU5 configuration in the linked datasheet. However, confirm current product details when ordering.

Parameter TLU5 specification
Operating wavelengths 1310 nm, 1490 nm and 1550 nm
Applicable fibre Singlemode
Laser type FP-LD
Adjustable output power −12 dBm to −5 dBm
Output adjustment step Less than 0.5 dB
Stated stability 0.15 dB over 30 minutes at 20°C
Fibre port FC/PC
Battery supply Three 1.5 V AA alkaline batteries
Stated battery operating time 45 hours
Operating temperature −10°C to +60°C
Storage temperature −25°C to +70°C
Dimensions 180 × 90 × 45 mm
Stated weight 250 g

Actual battery duration depends on operating conditions. Furthermore, specifications may change, so confirm the supplied configuration and accessories during quotation.

For additional product information, review the Yamasaki TLU5 Optical Light Source datasheet.

1310 1490 1550 nm Optical Light Source Knowledge Centre

Choosing a 1310 1490 1550 nm Optical Light Source involves more than selecting three wavelengths. In addition, you need to understand power meter compatibility, reference cables and your project’s measurement requirements.

That is why Anderson Corporation is developing a practical Knowledge Centre dedicated to this wavelength combination and singlemode fibre testing.

Whether you test new installations or assess existing infrastructure, these resources will support more informed equipment decisions. Furthermore, they will explain how the source, power meter and reference cables work together.

Educational Guides

Future articles will explain when projects require 1490 nm testing alongside 1310 nm and 1550 nm. In addition, they will explore wavelength selection and the distinction between controlled insertion loss testing and live-network measurements.

Articles coming soon.

Testing and Reference Guides

Future guides will cover compatible power meters, singlemode reference cables and repeatable measurement setups. Furthermore, they will explain reference management, connector compatibility and recording results across three wavelengths.

Articles coming soon.

For additional fibre optic information, visit the Anderson Corporation YouTube channel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What wavelengths does the TLU5 provide?

The TLU5 provides 1310 nm, 1490 nm and 1550 nm outputs for singlemode fibre testing. Therefore, it suits test plans requiring this specific three-wavelength combination.

Why choose the TLU5 instead of a two-wavelength source?

Choose the TLU5 when your project requires 1490 nm alongside 1310 nm and 1550 nm. However, a two-wavelength source may cover your needs if the specification requires only 1310 nm and 1550 nm.

Can the TLU5 test multimode fibre?

The TLU5 is specified for singlemode fibre. Therefore, choose an appropriate multimode source for 850 nm and 1300 nm testing.

Does the TLU5 measure optical loss by itself?

No. It supplies the optical test signal. Consequently, you need a compatible optical power meter and suitable reference cables to measure insertion loss.

Which optical power meter should I consider?

The datasheet recommends the Yamasaki TPU1 Intelligent Power Meter and TPU1A high-power model. However, confirm wavelength support, measurement range and reporting requirements before selecting your configuration.

Does the TLU5 support 1625 nm?

No. Its outputs are 1310 nm, 1490 nm and 1550 nm. Therefore, select another source configuration if your test plan requires 1625 nm.

Can the TLU5 measure live PON service power?

No. The TLU5 generates test light rather than measuring incoming service power. Therefore, live PON power measurements require an appropriate power meter and testing procedure.

Are LC connectors supported?

The datasheet lists an LC adaptor as an available option. Consequently, specify your connector type and polish requirements when requesting a quotation.

Can I adjust the optical output power?

Yes. The stated output range is −12 dBm to −5 dBm. However, establish a new reference if you change the output setting during insertion loss testing.

Does the TLU5 locate faults along a fibre?

A source-and-meter setup measures end-to-end loss. However, it does not provide the distance-resolved trace of an OTDR.

Does Wave ID work with every optical power meter?

Wave ID requires compatible receiving equipment. Therefore, confirm compatibility before relying on automatic wavelength identification.

Can the TLU5 operate from batteries?

Yes. The datasheet specifies three 1.5 V AA alkaline batteries. In addition, the instrument comes with an AC adaptor for an alternative power arrangement.

Specify Your Three-Wavelength Testing Setup

The Yamasaki TLU5 combines 1310 nm, 1490 nm and 1550 nm singlemode outputs in a portable instrument. Furthermore, adjustable power, Wave ID and tone generation support practical testing workflows.

Pair it with a compatible optical power meter and suitable reference cables. Then follow the required referencing procedure to measure insertion loss at each specified wavelength.

To select your equipment, provide the required wavelengths, connector types, fibre details and reporting requirements. In addition, advise which power meter and reference cables you already use.

For technical assistance and pricing on the 1310 1490 1550 nm Optical Light Source, request a Rapid Quote from Anderson Corporation.

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Datasheet-Yamasaki-tlu5-Laser Source 668 KB