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OVERVIEW

The Sercalo VX series are miniature opto-mechanical variable optical attenuator (VOA) for fiber optic communication systems and submodules. The non-latching attenuator allows for the continuous adjustment of the attenuation with a 0 – 5 V control voltage. The highly reliable attenuation mechanism is based on a micromechanical shutter and features below 20 ms response time and below 1.0 dB insertion loss. The VOA is available in single and dual variants.

The Broadband VX package is one of the smallest in the industry for fiber optic communication systems and submodules. It is optimized for low-cost application while maintaining high reliability in comparison to solid-state devices. The component is designed to meet Telcordia 1221 quality standards.

DESCRIPTION

The Sercalo VX variable optical attenuator are composed of an optical subsystem and an electrical driver interface. The optical attenuation is set by a silicon MEMS chip, on which a mirror can be moved in and out of the optical path by electrostatic actuation.

The internal driver interface converts the applied 5 V supply into a negative bias voltage and a positive high voltage. The positive voltage powers an operational amplifier. The attenuation is set by a 0-5 V input signal. This input signal is connected to the non inverting input of the operational amplifier which drives the electrostatic actuator of the MEMS variable optical attenuator (Figure 9). This high voltage design of the MEMS chip results in a fast, robust and vibration insensitive attenuator.

The VX attenuator are available in single channel and dual channel variants. The standard VX attenuator achieves minimum insertion loss at 0 V input voltage. When power is removed, the insertion loss is roughly 0.5 dB higher than the minimum insertion loss (at 0 V when power is on).

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

¹ without connectors
² for dual variant 0.35 dB max @ 20 dB
³ between 1530 -1570 nm
⁴ for constant polarisation and temperature