Using a patented maximum & minimum search technique, this DOP meter can measure and display the Degree of Polarization (DOP) of a light source in real time with high accuracy and wide dynamic range. While polarimeter-based systems are expensive and can be inaccurate for low DOP sources, and polarization scrambler-based instruments are less accurate for high DOP sources, this amazing, low-cost DOP meter provides simple, accurate measurement of both low and high DOP sources. It is ideal for DOP characterization of depolarizers and depolarized light sources, such as ASE and SLED sources and the pumps for Raman amplifiers. It can also be used to monitor OSNR and PMD of optical signals, and to measure the noise figure of optical amplifiers. Another attractive feature is that it operates over a wide wavelength range, including the S, C and L bands, without calibration. Finally, this instrument simultaneously measures the optical power level of the light source under test, a feature that allows measurement of DOP power dependence and enables the user to check the quality of the optical connection to the instrument.
