The UltraSpec™-C160 and -L160 for DWDM applications bring improved performance and additional wavelength coverage to the UltraSpec series of optical elements. UltraSpec components are an affordable, high-spectral-resolution, rugged, compact approach to DWDM devices and analyzers. Expanding on state-of-the-art holographic optics deployed in Raman spectrographs and military avionics, the unique patent-pending UltraSpec grating/prism structure uses a Volume Phase Holographic (VPH™) transmission grating recorded in dichromated gelatin and sealed from the environment between two precision prisms. This novel geometry provides an expanded beam footprint on the grating that is much larger than the beam cross–section, and results in a combination of both high dispersion and high resolution in a very compact package.

The UltraSpec-C160 has the range and resolution necessary for full characterization of the telecommunication C-band spectrum at 50-GHz channel spacing while the UltraSpec-L160 adds L-band spectrum capability. Both units add improved resolution and imaging capability to the UltraSpec lineup. Each UltraSpec exhibits low PDL and low stray light, with flat spectral response and high transmission. Similar approaches include high-channel-density DWDM multiplexers, demultiplexers, and receivers.

Features

• C160 provides C-band coverage:
  from 1525 to 1565 nm
   
• L160 provides L-band coverage:
  from 1570 to 1610 nm
   
• High spectral resolution:
  12 GHz
   
• High angular dispersion:
  0.30 degrees/nm at the center wavelength
   
• Compact configuration:
  0.4 in³, 6.6 cm³, 0.6 oz., < 16 g
   
• Smooth spectrum
   
• Polarization insensitive:
  < 0.5 dB between polarization states
   
• Robust physical package, no moving parts
   
• Long operating life
   
• Other custom gratings and configurations available