Fiber optic network interrogation tool for combined swept-heterodyne optical spectrum analysis and optical frequency-domain reflectometry
AssigneeIntuitive Surgical Operations, Inc.
InventorsMatthew T. Reaves, Mark E. Froggatt, Evan M. Lally
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Abstract
A multi-function optical tool may be used for example for built-in fault detection and transceiver source characterization in local optical communication networks. A single device provides swept-heterodyne optical spectrum analysis (SHOSA) and optical frequency-domain reflectometry (OFDR) in an efficient, low-cost package by utilizing a common interrogation laser source, common optical components, and common, low-bandwidth acquisition hardware. The technology provides significant cost, space, and labor savings for network maintainers and technicians.
Claims12
A device for optical network loss measurements and light source characterization, comprising:
- a single optical interrogation system including an interrogating laser source, an optical interferometric interrogator network, and optical detection circuitry;
- and
- an operational mode controller arranged to permit selective configuration of the single optical interrogation system to perform optical frequency-domain reflectometry (OFDR) in a first operational mode and to perform swept-heterodyne optical spectrum analysis (SHOSA) in a second operational mode.
A method for optical network loss measurements and light source characterization, comprising:
- providing a single optical interrogation device to perform optical frequency-domain reflectometry (OFDR) in a first operational mode and to perform swept-heterodyne optical spectrum analysis (SHOSA) in a second operational mode, wherein the optical interrogation device includes an interrogating laser source, an optical interferometric interrogator network, and optical detection circuitry;
- selecting one of the operational modes;
- and
- making optical network loss measurements or characterizing a light source using the single optical interrogation device based on the selected operational mode.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.