ALS LED Light Source

The ALS LED Light Source from Arden Photonics is a compact, handheld optical fiber light source designed specifically for aerospace fiber optic testing applications. Used in conjunction with an optical power meter, the ALS enables accurate insertion loss measurements in multimode optical fiber systems that require 85/85% Limited Phase Space (LPS) modal launch conditions. This highly specialized launch condition is widely adopted within the aerospace industry and is commonly used by Airbus for the certification of optical fiber harnesses,

Engineered for reliability, stability, and ease of use, the ALS provides consistent measurement conditions that help ensure repeatable test results and compliance with demanding aerospace standards. By delivering a controlled and stable modal distribution, the light source minimizes measurement uncertainty and supports accurate validation of multimode fiber links throughout manufacturing, installation, and maintenance processes.

Its ergonomic handheld design makes it ideal for laboratory environments, production facilities, and field applications where portability and efficiency are essential. Combined with long battery life and robust performance, the ALS LED Light Source is a practical solution for technicians, engineers, and quality assurance professionals working with aerospace optical networks.

Key Features

The ALS LED Light Source has been developed to meet the stringent requirements of aerospace fiber optic testing while maintaining simple operation and dependable performance.

Key features include:

• Stable 85/85% modal launch conditions for accurate multimode fiber measurements and insertion loss testing.
• Designed specifically for aerospace applications, supporting industry-recognized testing methodologies.
• Compact handheld format that provides excellent portability and ease of operation.
• Available with 850 nm or 1300 nm LED sources, covering common multimode fiber testing requirements.
• Compatible with both 50/125 µm and 62.5/125 µm multimode fibers, offering flexibility across different network configurations.
• Rechargeable Li-Ion battery with up to 48 hours of operating life, enabling extended use between charges.
• High measurement stability for consistent and repeatable test results.
• Certificate of Conformance provided as standard, with optional test certification detailing measurements at 850 nm and 1300 nm.
• Designed to work with aerospace modal controllers, where modal launch conditions are specified using Near Field Pattern width measurements at 5%, 15%, and 75% of maximum intensity.

These features make the ALS an ideal choice for organizations that require precise control over launch conditions and dependable performance in mission-critical fiber optic systems.

Applications

The ALS LED Light Source is primarily intended for insertion loss testing of multimode optical fiber systems in aerospace environments. Accurate insertion loss measurements are essential for verifying network performance, ensuring compliance with specifications, and maintaining the integrity of optical communication systems used in aircraft and related platforms.

One of the most important applications of the ALS is the testing and certification of aerospace optical fiber harnesses. Because aerospace systems demand highly reliable data transmission, standardized launch conditions are required to achieve consistent and repeatable measurement results. The ALS delivers the required 85/85% modal launch condition, making it suitable for qualification and acceptance testing procedures used throughout the aerospace sector.

The light source is also valuable for:

• Aircraft fiber optic harness manufacturing and verification
• Aerospace maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) testing
• Quality assurance and production testing
• Fiber optic research and development projects
• Installation and commissioning of aerospace optical networks
• Compliance testing requiring controlled multimode launch conditions
• Laboratory characterization of multimode fiber assemblies

Because the ALS provides controlled and repeatable launch conditions, it helps eliminate variations that can affect measurement accuracy. This allows organizations to achieve greater confidence in test data while supporting compliance with aerospace testing requirements and customer specifications.

Whether used on the production floor, in a testing laboratory, or during field maintenance activities, the ALS enables reliable optical loss measurements that contribute to the long-term performance and safety of aerospace communication systems.

Why buy from AMS Technologies?

• Expert product selection and technical support
• Proven components from qualified suppliers
• Reliable European service and supply
• Custom engineering when standard products are not enough
• One partner from component to complete solution

What's next

If your organization requires dependable insertion loss testing for aerospace multimode fiber systems, the ALS LED Light Source offers a proven solution tailored to the industry's unique requirements. Its stable 85/85% modal launch conditions, portability, long battery life, and compatibility with common multimode fiber types make it an effective tool for certification, quality control, and maintenance workflows.

By integrating the ALS into your fiber optic testing process, you can improve measurement consistency, enhance confidence in test results, and support compliance with rigorous aerospace standards. Whether you are manufacturing optical harnesses, validating new installations, or maintaining critical aerospace networks, the ALS LED Light Source provides the accuracy and reliability needed to achieve dependable multimode fiber measurements.