NanoSpeed™ 8x8, 8x12, 12x12 Fiber Optical Switch

Overview

The NSSB Series high-speed fiber optic switch features ultra-fast switching, exceptionally low optical loss, and high optical power handling. It is available in a turnkey rack-mount package with high-speed TTL SMA control inputs. Switching is achieved through a patented electro-optical configuration, providing clean, ripple-free transitions and ensuring continuous operation for over 25 years with non-mechanical, ultra-high reliability. Configurations are non-blocking, utilizing multiple NS 1x2 switches managed via five TTL pins for rapid routing. The NS Series is intrinsically bidirectional and available in polarization-independent or polarization-maintaining versions. Switching speed is determined by the crystal's rise/fall time, and repetition rate depends on the tuned driver, with resonances limiting frequency response. Each unit ships pre-mounted on a matched driver optimized for the intended operating range. Electrical power consumption varies with switching frequency.

Features

• Solid-State
• High speed
• Ultra-high reliability
• Low insertion loss
• Compact

Applications

• Optical blocking
• Configurable operation
• Instrumentation

Specifications

Notes:

• [1] Measured without connectors. Wavelengths with red color can be implemented in a special version with a long lead time. For 8x12.
• [2] ±25nm, Cross talk is measured at 100kHz, which may be degraded at the higher repeat rate.
• [3] Defined as the rising or fall time between 10% and 90% of optical intensities.
• [4] Defined at 1310nm/1550nm. For shorter wavelengths, handling power may be reduced; contact Agiltron for more information. High power version available by incorporating fiber core enlargement (expensive).

Mechanical Dimensions

The unit is designed for a 1U Rack Mount. Approximate dimensions are:

• Front View: Width 483.0 mm, Height 44.0 mm.
• Side View: Depth 440.0 mm.

Note: Product dimensions may change without notice for non-standard specifications.

Ordering Information

The NSSB Series offers various configurations and options. The prefix is NSSB-.

Configurations:

• 8x12 (Code: 0812)
• 8x8 (Code: 0808)
• 12x12 (Code: 1212)

An 8x12 module is packaged in a 2RU 19" mounting rack or similar. The control interface is TTL via a D-shape connector.

Available Options:

Wavelength [3]:

• 1060 (Code: 1)
• 2000 (Code: 2)
• 1310 (Code: 3)
• 1550 (Code: 5)
• 1625 (Code: 6)
• 1750 (Code: A)
• 780 (Code: 7)
• 850 (Code: 8)
• 650 (Code: E)
• Special (Code: 0)

Repetition Rate:

• 100kHz (Code: 1)
• 200kHz (Code: 2)
• 300kHz (Code: 3)
• Special (Code: 0)

Fiber Type:

• SMF-28 (Code: 1)
• HI1060 (Code: 2)
• HI780 (Code: 7)
• PM1550 (Code: 5)
• PM980 (Code: 9)
• PM850 (Code: 8)
• PM1310 (Code: 3)
• Special (Code: 0)

Connector [4]:

• None (Code: 1)
• FC/PC (Code: 2)
• FC/APC (Code: 3)
• SC/PC (Code: 4)
• SC/APC (Code: 5)
• ST/PC (Code: 6)
• LC/PC (Code: 7)
• LC/APC (Code: 8)
• E2000 APC (Code: 9)
• MPO (Code: Y)
• Special (Code: 0)

Optical Power:

• Regular (Code: 1)
• 1W (Code: A)
• 2W (Code: B)
• 5W (Code: C)
• 10W (Code: D)
• 20W (Code: E)

Note: PM1550 fiber works well for 1310nm.

[5] Rack Mount Depth ~ 430mm.

Technical Notes

Fiber Core Alignment

Minimum attenuation depends on excellent core-to-core alignment when connectors are mated. This is crucial for shorter wavelengths with smaller fiber core diameters, as misalignment can increase loss significantly. Different vendors' connectors may not mate well, especially for angled APC.

Fiber Cleanliness

Fibers with smaller core diameters (<5 µm) must be kept extremely clean. Contamination at fiber-fiber interfaces, combined with high optical power density, can lead to significant optical damage, usually requiring re-polishing or connector replacement.

Maximum Optical Input Power

Due to small fiber core diameters for short wavelengths and high photon energies, damage thresholds are substantially reduced compared to common 1550nm fiber. To avoid damage to exposed fiber end faces and internal components, optical input power should not exceed 20 mW for wavelengths shorter than 650nm. Agiltron produces a special version with expanded fiber core ends to increase handling capability.

Performance Data

Optical Power Handling vs Wavelength

Description: Estimated power handling of SM fibers. The graph shows Optical Power (mW) on the Y-axis and Wavelength (nm) on the X-axis. The line indicates increasing power handling with increasing wavelength, reaching approximately 160 mW at 700 nm.

Typical Speed Response Measurement

Description: Oscilloscope trace showing Optical and Electrical signals. The Y-axis is scaled in 500mV/div for both channels. The X-axis is scaled in 50.0ns/div. The trace indicates a switching time of approximately 100 ns, defined as the rising or fall time between 10% and 90% of optical intensities.

Important Information

Warning: This is an OEM module designed for system integration. Do not touch the PCB by hand. Electrical static can kill chips even without a power plug-in. Unpleasant electrical shock may also be felt. For laboratory use, purchase a Turnkey system.

Legal Notices: All product information is believed to be accurate and subject to change without notice. Information contained herein legally binds Agiltron only if specifically incorporated into terms and conditions of a sales agreement. Some specific combinations of options may not be available. The user assumes all risks and liability in connection with the use of a product or its application.