MPX-SR3 Fiber Shaker

Accurate Encircled Flux (EF) measurements are essential for validating multimode fiber optic networks and ensuring compliance with industry standards. When testing laser-based transmission light sources, however, measurement accuracy can be affected by speckle patterns generated within the fiber. To address this challenge, Arden Photonics developed the MPX-SR3 Fiber Shaker, a compact and reliable mechanical fiber shaker designed to improve measurement repeatability and support standards-compliant multimode testing.

The MPX-SR3 is specifically designed to work alongside Encircled Flux measurement systems, including Arden's MPX Modal Explorer. Industry standards such as IEEE 802.3aq and FOTP-203 recommend the use of a mechanical fiber shaker when measuring laser-based multimode sources, helping to minimize the impact of speckle and improve the consistency of test results.

The device operates by continuously shaking the fiber during measurement, altering the differential path lengths of the various propagation modes within the fiber. This process effectively averages out speckle patterns, resulting in more stable and repeatable measurements. By reducing measurement uncertainty, the MPX-SR3 helps users achieve greater confidence in their Encircled Flux testing and optical source characterization.

Designed for ease of use and portability, the MPX-SR3 combines a compact footprint with low-noise operation and lightweight construction. It is available with multiple multimode fiber options and supports a wide range of testing environments, making it an ideal solution for laboratories, production facilities, and network validation applications. Whether you are performing compliance testing, developing optical components, or validating multimode transmission systems, the MPX-SR3 Fiber Shaker provides the reliability required to achieve accurate and repeatable results.

Key Features

• The MPX-SR3 Fiber Shaker incorporates several practical features designed to simplify testing procedures while enhancing measurement performance.
• One of its primary benefits is its ability to reduce speckle in laser-based multimode measurements. By continuously agitating the fiber during operation, the shaker averages modal interference effects and improves the repeatability of Encircled Flux measurements. This capability is particularly important when testing multimode optical transmission systems that rely on laser sources.
• The system features dual fiber channels, allowing users to support multiple fiber types with a single instrument. Standard configurations include one channel fitted with OM1 (62.5/125 µm graded-index fiber) and a second channel fitted with OM2 (50/125 µm graded-index fiber). Alternative configurations are also available using OM3 and OM4 fibers to meet modern multimode testing requirements.
• For convenient integration into existing optical test setups, each channel includes input and output ports fitted with FC/PC connectors as standard. This simplifies installation and allows quick connection to light sources, patchcords, and measurement systems.
• The MPX-SR3 also offers a compact design with dimensions similar to the MPX platform, making it easy to transport between test locations and integrate into busy laboratory environments. Its small footprint minimizes bench space requirements while maintaining robust performance.
• Additional key benefits include:
• Dual fiber inputs available in OM1/OM2 or OM3/OM4 configurations.
• Lightweight construction for improved portability.
• Low-noise operation suitable for laboratory and production environments.
• Controlled shake frequency of 10 Hz for effective speckle reduction and measurement stability.

Together, these features make the MPX-SR3 an effective and user-friendly tool for improving the quality and reliability of multimode fiber measurements.

Applications

The MPX-SR3 Fiber Shaker is designed for a variety of fiber optic testing applications where repeatability and compliance are critical.

One of the most common applications is Encircled Flux measurement of laser-based multimode sources. The shaker helps eliminate the measurement variability caused by speckle, enabling more reliable EF assessments and improved confidence in test data.

The instrument is also valuable for standards-compliant network testing, particularly where specifications such as IEEE 802.3aq and FOTP-203 require the use of a mechanical fiber shaker during testing procedures. By helping organizations comply with established industry guidelines, the MPX-SR3 supports accurate and repeatable certification workflows.

In research and development environments, the device assists with optical source characterization, allowing engineers to evaluate the performance of multimode transmitters, VCSELs, and laser-based optical systems under controlled conditions. Consistent modal averaging helps ensure that measurement results accurately reflect true source behavior.

The MPX-SR3 is also well suited for manufacturing and quality assurance testing, where repeatable measurements are essential for validating product performance and maintaining production consistency. Laboratories and production facilities can use the system to improve testing accuracy while reducing operator-related variability.

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• Expert product selection and technical support
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What's next

As multimode optical networks continue to evolve, achieving accurate and standards-compliant measurements remains essential for ensuring network performance and product quality. The Arden Photonics MPX-SR3 Fiber Shaker provides a simple yet highly effective solution for reducing speckle and improving the repeatability of Encircled Flux measurements.

Whether you are validating multimode network components, characterizing optical sources, or performing compliance testing to industry standards, the MPX-SR3 can help increase measurement confidence and consistency. Its compact design, dual-fiber capability, low-noise operation, and proven speckle-reduction performance make it a valuable addition to any advanced fiber optic testing environment.