Fiber Optic Delay Lines

Product Portfolio
AMS Technologies carries a broad range of fixed or variable fiber optic delay lines, operated manually or motorized.

A series of fiber optic delay lines is available comprising of devices that consist of single mode (SM), multi mode (MM) or polarization maintaining input and output fiber collimators to project the light into free space and collect it again into a fiber. By varying the distance the light travels, the user can control the delay time through the device – both manual and electrically controlled versions utilizing a servo motor can be ordered.

Compact and rugged manual variable optical delay lines provide precision optical path variation of up to 1200 ps, with two even smaller, miniaturized versions still providing up to 250 ps or up to 260 ps respectively. These devices are ideal for integration in network equipment, test instruments and optical coherence tomography (OCT) systems for precision optical path length or timing alignment.

Motorized variable fiber optic optical delay lines allow optical path length adjustment of up to 560 ps in a single pass. Driven by a DC motor with an integrated encoder, these devices are available as an integrated bench-top instrument for laboratory applications, as a two-piece unit for installation into customer equipment or as an OEM version with miniature controller board. With a total volume of 16.4 cm3, the smallest delay line in this series is specifically designed for OEM applications that require continuous scanning capability and a small footprint.

Fixed differential group delays (DGD) add defined amounts of first order polarization mode dispersion (PMD) to a polarization maintaining (PM) fiber system without having to precisely measure the PM fiber’s length.

Related Products
Our fiber optic delay lines can be used with our broad range of optical fibers, patch cables, bundles and assemblies, driven by our various lasers and light sources.

Beyond fiber optic circulators, further fiber components are available like collimators and focusers, light to fiber couplers/collimators, fiber connectors, mating sleeves and adapters, fiber WDMs, combiners, splitters and couplers, fiber amplifiers, attenuators or polarization controllers, as well as fiber optic switches, circulators, filters, isolators and other fiber optic assemblies.

Our portfolio of precision optics includes optical lenses, optics assemblies, optical filters, optical prisms, optical mirrors, optical beamsplitters, etalons, optical gratings, optical isolators, optical attenuators and polarization optics as well as optical scanners and deflectors or optical modulators, q-switches and pockels cells.

For mounting, adjusting and moving our optical components with high precision, we carry an array of optomechanics and motion control such as optical mounts, rotary and translation stages plus motion controllers as well as optical tables, breadboards and platforms.

Definition
A fiber-optic delay line consists of an optical path of fixed or variable length – the time that the light needs to span this path corresponds to the delay value of the delay line. Fixed delays usually simply consist of an optical fiber with precisely defined length, wound into a coil.

In variable fiber-optic delay lines, on the other hand, the relevant distance usually runs in air – similar to pure free-space delay lines – resulting in a delay of about 3.34 ps per mm path length. Therefore, a distance of about 30 cm is needed for a delay of 1 ns, which means that the set-up can quickly become quite bulky if longer delays are required. In fiber-optic delay lines, collimators are located at the beginning and end of the path to focus the light exiting the input fiber and pick up the light entering the output fiber.

The distance between the two collimators is defined by a precision mechanism – in the case of variable delay lines the distance is adjusted either manually, for example by means of a (micrometer) spindle drive or electrically with the aid of motors – or piezos, if very small length variations are required.

In compact or miniaturized fiber optic delay lines with fiber connectors at both ends, the time delay can be selected via an adjustment knob. With such compact delay lines, a maximum of several 100 ps can be achieved – or twice the value if the internal optical path is extended by means of one or more mirrors.

Alternative Terms: Manual Fiber Optic Delay Line; Motorized Fiber Optic Delay Line; Variable Optical Delay Line; Manual Variable Optical Delay Line; Motorized Variable Optical Delay Line; Fixed Differential Group Delay (DGD)

DDL-650-11 Differential Polarization Delay Lines

Varies Delay Between Polarization States; Delay Range ±50 ps; Delay Resolution 0.0027 ps; Return Loss -40, -50, -60 dB; Max. Insertion Loss 1.2 dB OZ Optics’ DDL-650-11 differential polarization delay lines represent the next stage in controlling polarization mode dispersion in optical networks. The devices split the light within a fiber into orthogonal polarizations, and then actively vary the time that one polarization travels compared to the other polarization before combining the two polarizations together again. With this technique, one can introduce up to ±50 ps of optical delay in a system. The resolution of the DDL-650-11 differential polarization delay lines is better than 0.003 ps, thus providing a high degree of control. The devices are easily controlled by a computer via an RS-232 interface. Home and end position sensors allow easy monitoring of the device status and prevent any potential damage to the device. Key Features: Varies the Delay Between Two Polarization States Low Loss Sub-picosecond Delay Resolution: Wide Wavelength Range Delay Range: ±50 ps Delay Resolution: 0.0027 ps Max. Insertion Loss (IL): 1.2 dB Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL): <0.25 dB Return Loss: -40 dB, -50 dB, -60 dB Zero Delay Accuracy: ±0.1 ps Repeatability: <0.05 ps Speed: 3 ps/s Electronically Controlled Interface: RS232 or TTL Supply Voltage: 6 V to 8 V, max. 180 mA Dimensions: 105 x 51 x 25 mm Applications: PMD Compensation in High-speed Communications Networks; PMD Emulation; TDM Bit Alignment; Interferometric Sensors; Coherent Telecommunications

Product number: SW11909

Manufacturer: OZ Optics

FDE-002 Fixed Differential Group Delay

1550 nm; DGD 0-45 ps; RL 55 dB; IL 0.8 dB; Fiber Type SMF-28; PDL <0.2 dB General Photonics’ FDE-002 fixed differential group delay (DGD) artifacts eliminate the need for precise measurement of polarization maintaining (PM) fiber lengths to add defined amounts of first order PMD to a system. DGD values of up to 45 ps are available in the FDE-002 fixed differential group delay standard size package. Larger DGD values are also available by special request. Key Features: Large 1st Order PMD: up to 45 ps Low Insertion Loss (IL): <1 dB (0.8 dB Typical) Operating Wavelength: 1550 ± 50nm DGD Value: 0 to 45 ps Standard, Larger Values on Request DGD Calibration Accuracy: ±(1 fs + DGD x 0.5%) Insertion Loss (intrinsic): < 1 dB (0.8 dB typical) Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL): <0.2 dB Return Loss (RL): 55 dB Power Handling: >300 mW Fiber Type: SMF-28 Dimensions: 108 × 7.9 x 7.9 mm Applications: PMD Emulation; PMD Compensation; TDM Bit Alignment

Product number: SW11309

Manufacturer: General Photonics

MDL-002 Fiber Optic Delay Lines

840-1650 nm; Delay Range 0-1,120 ps; RL 50 dB; Fiber Type SMF-28, HI1060, HI780, PM Panda, PM 980 Panda; IL 1.0, 1.5 dB; PDL 0.1, 0.2 dB General Photonics’ MDL-002 family of motorized variable fiber optic optical delay lines allow optical path length adjustment of up to 560 ps in a single pass. Driven by a DC motor with an integrated encoder, the MDL-002 has a delay resolution of less than 0.3µm (1 fs). In addition, its advanced motion design guarantees longevity for long-term continuous operation. Low insertion loss and high reliability make this device ideal for integration in optical coherence tomography (OCT) systems, network equipment and test instruments for precision optical path length control or timing alignment. Three configurations of the MDL-002 fiber optic delay line series are available: Integrated unit for use as a bench-top instrument for laboratory applications Two-piece unit with the optical head and control unit separated for installation into customer equipment OEM version with a miniature controller board All three versions can be remote controlled by a PC or a micro-processor through an RS-232 interface. The delay line is available with either single mode (SM) or polarization maintaining (PM) fiber pigtails. Key Features: High Optical Delay Resolution: 0.3 µm / 1 fs, 0.6 µm / 2 fs Per Encoder Count Low Backlash Low Insertion Loss (IL): 1.0, 1.5 dB Typical Insertion Loss Variation: ±0.3, ±0.5, ±0.7 dB Over Entire High Delay-to-Length Ratio Optical Delay Range: 0 to 330, 0 to 560, 0 to 1,120 ps Operating Wavelength: 840 to 1650 nm Position Accuracy: ±3, ±6 µm Position Repeatability: ±3, ±6 µm Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL): 0.1, 0.2 dB Maximum Return Loss (RL): 50 dB Extinction Ratio: >18 dB (For PM Model) Optical Power Damage Threshold: 300 mW Control Mode: Panel Keypad and RS-232 Interface Fiber Type: SMF-28, HI1060, HI780, PM Panda, PM 980 Panda Dimensions: 178 x 102 x 41, 229 x 112 x 41 mm (Integrated Unit), 65 x 65 x 21.5 mm (Mini Controller Board), 132/157 x 37 x 18 mm (Optical Head) Applications: Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Systems; Scientific Instrument Control; Network Optical Path Length Control or Timing Alignment; Optical Fourier Spectrum Analysis; Optical Interferometry; Delay Generation and Measurement; Optical Time Division Multiplexing (OTDM); Fiber Sensors

Product number: SW11302

Manufacturer: General Photonics

MDL-003 Fiber Optic Delay Line

840-1650 nm; Delay Range 0-100, 0-200 ps; RL 55 dB; Fiber Type SMF-28, HI780, HI1060, PM Panda; IL 1 dB; PDL 0.15 dB General Photonics’ motorized variable optical delay line is the smallest delay line in the MDL series of products, with a total volume of less than 2 cubic inches. The MDL-003 provides low-cost, precision optical path length adjustment and delay scanning functionality. This addition to the MDL product line is specifically designed for OEM applications that require continuous scanning capability and a small footprint. The standard MDL-003 motorized variable optical delay line has a delay range of 100 ps; however an internal mirror can be installed to double pass the light, thereby doubling the delay range. The device uses a stepper motor and dual position sensors for precise control. A small controller board is available as an option. Key Features: High Resolution Low Backlash Low Insertion Loss (IL): 1 dB Insertion Loss Variation: ±0.3 dB Over Entire Range High Delay-to-Length Ratio Operating Wavelengths: 840, 1060, 1310, 1550 or 1260 to 1650 nm Optical Delay Range: 0 to 100 ps, Single-pass Optical Delay Resolution: 30 μm, Single-pass at Maximum Speed Optical Delay Accuracy: ±40 μm, Single-pass at Maximum Speed Optical Delay Repeatability: ±40 μm, Single-pass at Maximum Speed Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL): 0.15 dB (SM Fiber) Return Loss (RL): 55 dB Extinction Ratio: >18 dB (PM Model) Actuation Speed: 50 ps/s (Single-pass) Maximum Optical Damage Power Threshold: 100 mW Fiber Type: SMF-28, HI780, HI1060, PM Panda Dimensions: 51 x 36 x 14 mm Applications: Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Systems; Scientific Instrument Control; Network Optical Path Length Control or Timing Alignment

Product number: SW11308

Manufacturer: General Photonics

ODL Fiber Optic Delay Lines

Manual & Motorized Versions; 400 to 2000 nm; Delay Range 13 to 600 ps; Return Loss -35, -40, -50, -60 dB, Fiber Type SM, MM, PM OZ Optics’ fiber optic delay lines (ODL series) consist of an input and output fiber collimator to project the light into free space and collect it again into a fiber. The distance the light travels in free space is precisely controlled, either by controlling the separation between the input and output optics (ODL-100, ODL-200, ODL-300, ODL-700) or by reflecting the light off a movable reflector (ODL-600, ODL-650). In either case, by varying the distance the light travels, the user can control the delay time through the device. ODL series delay lines are available in both manual and electrically controlled versions. Manual delay lines (ODL-100, ODL-200, ODL-600, ODL-700) utilize either a lead screw or a micrometer to adjust the spacing. Electrically controlled versions (ODL-300, ODL-650) utilize a servo motor with encoders to monitor the motion. With these electronically controlled devices, submicron resolution (<0.003 ps) is achieved. The delay line is easily controlled by a computer via an RS-232 interface or manually using some simple TTL input signals. These devices are calibrated to provide the delay in picoseconds. Home and end position sensors prevent accidental damage to the device. The ODL-700 miniature style delay line provides up to 13 ps delay in a miniature package. The unit takes up little more space than an ordinary patch cord connection and is easily adjustable and lockable. Delay lines are offered using single mode (SM), multi mode (MM) or polarization maintaining (PM) fibers. In general, OZ Optics uses polarization maintaining fibers based on the PANDA fiber structure when building polarization maintaining components and patch cords. However OZ Optics can construct devices using other PM fiber structures. OZ Optics also carries some alternative fiber types in stock, please contact AMS Technologies for availability. If necessary, OZ Optics is willing to use customer supplied fibers to build devices. Key Features: Low Loss Sub-picosecond Resolution Wide Wavelength Range (400 to 2000 nm) Over 600 ps Delay Range Polarization Insensitive Single Mode (SM) and Polarization Maintaining (PM) Fiber Versions Electrically Controlled Versions Available Miniature Style Version Applications: PMD Compensation in High-speed Communications Networks; Interferometric Sensors; Coherent Telecommunications; Spectrum Analyzers; OCT Systems

Product number: SW10865

Manufacturer: OZ Optics

VDL-001 Fiber Optic Delay Line

840-1650 nm; Delay Range 0-1,200 ps; RL 50 dB; Fiber Type SMF-28, HI780, HI1060, PM Panda; IL 1.0, 1.5 dB; PDL 0.1 dB The General Photonics VDL-001 module is a manually controlled variable fiber optic optical delay line. Multiple versions are available with path length of up to 1,200 ps. A low insertion loss and low variation of insertion loss is critical for most applications, and the VDL-001 has less than ±1 dB variation even up to 1,200 ps. The delay line is packaged in a small aluminum box to prevent dust or noxious vapors from contaminating the optical path. The compact, rugged design makes the VDL-001 device ideal for integration in network equipment, test instruments, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) systems for precision optical path length or timing alignment. Key Features: Highest Delay-to-Length Ratio Optical Delay: Up to 1,200 ps Insertion Loss (IL): 1.0, 1.5 dB Typical Low Insertion Loss Variation: ±0.3, ±0.5, ±0.7 dB Operating Wavelengths: 840, 1060, 1310, 1550, 1260 to 1650 nm Optical Delay Range: 0 to 330, 0 to 600, 0 to 1200 ps Readout Scale Resolution: 0.05 mm Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL): 0.1 dB (SM Model) Return Loss (RL): 50 dB Extinction Ratio: >18 dB (PM Model) Optical Power Damage Threshold: 300 mW Fiber Type: SMF-28, HI780, HI1060, PM Panda Dimensions: 25.5 x 53 x 107/152 mm Applications: Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Systems; Passive Time Division Multiplexing (TDM); TDM Bit Alignment; Fiber Interferometers

Product number: SW11305

Manufacturer: General Photonics

VDL-002 Fiber Optic Delay Line

840-1650 nm; Delay Range 0-250 ps; RL 55 dB; Fiber Type SMF-28, HI780, HI1060, PM Panda; IL 1.0 dB; PDL 0.1 dB General Photonics’ VDL-002 variable fiber optic delay line module is approximately half the volume of the VDL-001 unit . Path length of the VDL-002 delay line is up to 250 ps, compared to the maximum delay of 1,200 ps in the larger VDL-001. A single VDL-002 device can be used for any data rate, simplifying inventory management. With a footprint of only 78 × 22 × 15 mm for a delay range of 100 ps, the device can be conveniently integrated into network modules, test instruments and OCT equipment for precision optical path length control or timing alignment. An internal mirror can be installed to cause light to double pass the device, doubling the delay range. The patent-pending design makes hermetically sealed packaging possible and enables Telcordia qualification when required. Finally, a locking mechanism is provided for locking the delay at a permanent position. The VDL-002 generally comes with single mode (SM) or polarization maintaining (PM) fiber pigtails per customer requirement. Key Features: Compact Size: 56/80 × 37 × 18 mm Insertion Loss (IL): 1.0 dB Nominal Variation of Insertion Loss: ±0.3 dB Over Entire Range Flexible Options Operating Wavelength: 840, 1060, 1310, 1550, 1260 to 1650 nm Optical Delay Range: 0 to 100 ps (3 cm), 0 to 250 ps (7.5 cm) Continuous Internal Mirror Option for Doubling the Range Delay Stability: 0.15 ps Zero Point Delay Offset: 180 ps Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL): 0.1 dB (SM Model) Return Loss (RL): 55 dB Extinction Ratio: >18 dB (PM Model) Optical Power Damage Threshold: 300 mW Fiber Type: SMF-28, HI780, HI1060, PM Panda Applications: Coherent Detection Systems; Optical Time Division Multiplexing (OTDM); Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT); Optical Interferometry; Optical Fourier Spectrum Analysis; Replacement for Variable RF Phase Shifters

Product number: SW11306

Manufacturer: General Photonics

VDL-004 Fiber Optic Delay Line

840-1650 nm; Delay Range 0-130 ps (4 cm); RL 55 dB; Fiber Type SMF-28, HI780, HI1060, PM Panda; IL <0.8 dB; PDL 0.1 dB General Photonics’ VDL-004 module is a miniature variable optical delay line designed specifically for OEM applications. This device offers continuous control with high precision, zero backlash, and good thermal stability. An internal mirror can be installed to cause light to double pass the device, doubling the delay range. A locking mechanism is provided for locking the delay at a permanent position. The VDL-004 delay line module generally comes with single mode (SM) or polarization maintaining (PM) fiber pigtails per customer requirement. With a footprint of only 78 x 22 x 15 mm for a delay range of 130 ps (40 mm), the device can be easily integrated into larger instruments or assemblies for precision optical path length control or timing alignment. Convenient mounting brackets allow mounting in any orientation, as well as easy integration of multiple units on a base plate to form an array. Key Features: Compact Size: 78 x 22 x 15 mm Continuous Adjustment Zero Backlash Low Insertion Loss: <0.8 dBInsertion Loss Variation: <0.4 dB Over Entire Range High Stability Flexible Mounting Options Position Locking Included Operating Wavelength: 840, 1060, 1310, 1550, 1260 to 1650 nm Optical Delay Range: 0 to 130 ps (40 mm) Continuous Optical Delay Resolution: 3.34 ps (1 mm) Per Full Turn Delay Repeatability: <20 µm Zero Point Delay Offset: 230 ps Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL): 0.1 dB (SM Fiber) Return Loss (RL): 55 dB Polarization Extinction Ratio: 20 dB (PM Model) Optical Power Damage Threshold: 300 mW Fiber Type: SMF-28, HI780, HI1060, PM Panda Applications: Microwave Photonics; Phased Array Antennas; Coherent Detection Systems; Optical Time Division Multiplexing (OTDM); Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT); Optical Interferometry; Optical Fourier Spectrum Analysis; Fiber Sensors

Product number: SW11307

Manufacturer: General Photonics