Selection of Extinction Ratio Tester for Airports

For airport applications, the choice of extinction ratio tester should prioritize accuracy, automation, multichannel capability, and compatibility with polarization-maintaining fibers and connectors.

Key Considerations for Airport Use

Airports often require high-reliability optical testing for communication, navigation, and safety systems. When selecting a PER tester, consider:

• Measurement Accuracy and Range: Ensure the tester can measure high PER values (up to 30 dB) for precise polarization characterization.
• Wavelength Coverage: Devices should cover the operational wavelengths of airport optical systems, typically 400–2500 nm.
• Connector Compatibility: Support for FC/PC, FC/APC, LC/PC, and SC/PC connectors is essential for diverse fiber types.
• Automation and Speed: Automated polarization alignment and multichannel measurement reduce testing time, critical for high-volume or routine maintenance.
• Software and Data Logging: User-friendly GUI and USB or network connectivity for remote operation and data recording enhance efficiency.

Recommended Testers

1. Agiltron PERM
   • Benchtop PER meter for PM fibers and components.
   • Wavelength range: 400–2500 nm.
   • Supports multiple connector types and bare fiber adaptors.
   • Uses a rotating polarizer with photodiode detection.
   • USB interface for remote operation and data logging.
   • Suitable for precise, single-channel measurements in lab or field settings .
2. Thorlabs ERM2xx
   • Measures PER and polarization angle of PM fibers.
   • Wavelength-specific models: 400–700 nm, 600–1600 nm, 1200–2500 nm.
   • Monitor output compatible with PM fusion splicers for active alignment.
   • Exchangeable fiber connector adapters for flexible testing.
   • Ideal for alignment and connectorization tasks .
3. Santec PEM-400
   • High-speed, multichannel PER measurement (up to 12 fibers in <30 seconds).
   • Measures PER, polarization angle, insertion loss, and output power simultaneously.
   • Automated multichannel testing without repositioning the DUT.
   • Suitable for high-volume testing of fiber arrays and pluggables.
   • Best for airports requiring rapid, repeated testing of multiple fibers .
4. OElabs PA8607
   • Automatic PER tester for fibers, devices, and connectors.
   • Measures PER, polarization angle, and light source polarization.
   • Features automatic polarization alignment for faster operation.
   • User-friendly software for easy operation and data management.
   • Suitable for routine maintenance and field deployment where automation is critical .

Recommendation

For airport environments where speed, automation, and multichannel capability are important, the Santec PEM-400 is highly recommended due to its rapid multichannel measurement and ability to test fiber arrays without repositioning. For smaller-scale or single-channel testing, the Agiltron PERM or Thorlabs ERM2xx provide precise measurements with flexible connector support. The OElabs PA8607 is ideal for automated field testing with easy software operation. Selecting the right tester depends on the volume of fibers, required measurement speed, and integration with existing airport optical systems.