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Measure Relative Intensity Noise Using a DCA

Application Notes

Laser intensity noise can be one of the limiting factors in the transmission of analog or digital signals. It can reduce the signal-to-noise ratio and increase the bit error rate, therefore degrading system performance. Laser intensity noise can vary significantly depending on the properties of the laser, back reflections, and optical or electrical filters after the optical/electrical (O/E) conversion. In order to optimize communication links it is essential to accurately characterize the laser intensity noise, compare it with the signal strength, and if necessary allow an appropriate power budget.

Chapter 1 provides some background on laser intensity noise and how it affects the noise of the received signal. It also explains common Relative Intensity Noise (RIN) definitions.

Chapter 2 looks at the specifics of how the Keysight Technologies, Inc. 86100C Infiniium DCA acquires data and characterizes RIN. It also describes the exact sequence of steps and keystrokes for manual operation and lists useful hints and caveats for typical measurement situations.

Chapters 3, 4 and 5 show alternative RIN measurements based on RF power meters (IEEE 802.3ae method), electrical spectrum analyzers (Keysight 71400C LSA method), and optical spectrum analyzers (Keysight 86142A OSA method).

Chapter 6 compares actual measurements using the different methods and discusses potential challenges and limitations.

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Column Control DTX