Definition Of Specifications - OptoTest OP415 Instruction Manual

OP415

Definition of Specifications

Dynamic Range
The dynamic range, or measurement range, of the optical power meter spans from the
maximal power level the instrument can measure, without major saturation to the detector,
to the minimal power level where the thermal noise of the detector becomes greater
than the current produced by the incident light. For accurate power measurements, it
is NOT recommended to measure power levels at either end of the dynamic range (see
Linearity). The dynamic range is measured by comparing the absolute measured power
against a reference power. When the difference between the two exceeds 1dB either
end of the dynamic range has been reached.
Linearity
Photodetectors are, by nature, very linear over a wide range of optical input powers,
but the power meter electronics can affect the overall system linearity. The power meter
linearity is characterized and specified to know the measurement accuracy and linearity
over the full dynamic range. For accurate insertion loss measurements only power levels
that fall within the range with the best linearity (+/-0.05dB or better) should be measured.
Calibration Wavelength
The calibration wavelengths are the nominal wavelengths of the instrument's calibration
points. The exact wavelength of each particular calibration is stated in the Certificate of
Calibration.
Calibration Traceability
The detector's absolute calibration data is directly traceable to N.I.S.T. at the specified
calibration wavelength and the specified power level, typically -10dBm.
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