IEC 61291-2:2023
(Main)Optical amplifiers - Part 2: Single channel applications - Performance specification template
Optical amplifiers - Part 2: Single channel applications - Performance specification template
IEC 61292-2:2023 provides a performance specification template applicable to optical amplifiers (OAs) used in single channel applications. Multichannel applications are covered in IEC 61291-4. The objective of this template is to provide a framework for the preparation of performance standards and/or product specifications defining the performance of OA devices used in single channel applications. In addition to the requirements specified in this template, a performance standard or product specification could include other parameters, such as ratings, operating conditions, tests, and pass/fail criteria. For a particular application, product specification writers could add specification parameters and/or groups of specification parameters to this template, without removing the parameters specified in this document. This fifth edition cancels and replaces the fourth edition published in 2016. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
- the test methods for gain ripple in Table 2, Table 4 and Table 6 refer now to the IEC 61290‑1 series;
- the SOA definition (3.1.3) refers now to IEC 61931.
Amplificateurs optiques - Partie 2: Applications à un seul canal - Modèle de spécifications de performances
L'IEC 61292-1:2023 fournit un modèle de spécifications de performances applicable aux amplificateurs optiques (AO) utilisés dans le cadre d’applications à un seul canal. Les applications multicanaux sont couvertes dans l’IEC 61291-4. L’objectif de ce modèle est de fournir un cadre pour l’établissement de normes de performances et/ou de spécifications de produit définissant les performances des dispositifs AO utilisés dans le cadre d’applications à un seul canal. En plus des exigences spécifiées dans ce modèle, une norme de performances ou une spécification de produit peut inclure d’autres paramètres, tels que des valeurs assignées, des conditions de fonctionnement, des essais et des critères de succès/défaillance. Pour une application particulière, les rédacteurs de spécifications de produit peuvent ajouter des paramètres de spécification et/ou des groupes de paramètres de spécification à ce modèle, sans supprimer les paramètres spécifiés dans le présent document. Cette cinquième édition annule et remplace la quatrième édition parue en 2016. Cette édition constitue une révision technique. Cette édition inclut les modifications techniques majeures suivantes par rapport à l’édition précédente:
- les méthodes d’essai pour l’ondulation du gain dans le Tableau 2, le Tableau 4 et le Tableau 6 font maintenant référence à la série IEC 61290-1;
- la définition de SOA (3.1.3) fait maintenant référence à l’IEC 61931.
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IEC 61291-2 ®
Edition 5.0 2023-02
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
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Optical amplifiers –
Part 2: Single channel applications – Performance specification template
IEC 61291-22023-02 RLV(en)
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IEC 61291-2 ®
Edition 5.0 2023-02
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Optical amplifiers –
Part 2: Single channel applications – Performance specification template
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 33.180.30 ISBN 978-2-8322-6525-3
– 2 – IEC 61291-2:2023 RLV © IEC 2023
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 3
INTRODUCTION . 2
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviated terms . 7
3.1 Terms and definitions . 7
3.2 Abbreviated terms . 8
4 Performance specification templates for power amplifiers . 8
5 Performance specification templates for pre-amplifiers . 11
6 Performance specification templates for line amplifiers . 15
7 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements . 19
8 Laser safety requirements . 19
Bibliography . 20
Table 1 – Minimum relevant parameters for power amplifiers based on OFA
components or modules using active fibre specified for single channel applications . 9
Table 2 – Minimum relevant parameters for power amplifiers based on SOA
components specified for single channel applications . 10
Table 3 – Minimum relevant parameters for pre-amplifiers based on OFA components
or modules using active fibre specified for single channel applications . 12
Table 4 – Minimum relevant parameters for pre-amplifiers based on SOA components
specified for single channel applications . 14
Table 5 – Minimum relevant parameters for line amplifiers based on OFA components
or modules using active fibre specified for single channel applications . 16
Table 6 – Minimum relevant parameters for line amplifiers based on SOA components
specified for single channel applications . 18
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
OPTICAL AMPLIFIERS –
Part 2: Single channel applications –
Performance specification template
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote international
co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To this end and
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preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested in the subject dealt with
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Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by agreement between the two organizations.
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3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
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6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
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8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of patent
rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This redline version of the official IEC Standard allows the user to identify the changes
made to the previous edition IEC 61291-2:2016. A vertical bar appears in the margin
wherever a change has been made. Additions are in green text, deletions are in
strikethrough red text.
– 4 – IEC 61291-2:2023 RLV © IEC 2023
IEC 61291-2 has been prepared by subcommittee 86C: Fibre optic systems and active devices,
of IEC technical committee 86: Fibre optics. It is an International Standard.
This fifth edition cancels and replaces the fourth edition published in 2016. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) the test methods for gain ripple in Table 2, Table 4 and Table 6 refer now to the IEC 61290-1
series;
b) the SOA definition (3.1.3) refers now to IEC 61931.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
Draft Report on voting
86C/1849/FDIS 86C/1858/RVD
Full information on the voting for its approval can be found in the report on voting indicated in
the above table.
The language used for the development of this International Standard is English.
This document was drafted in accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2, and developed in
accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and ISO/IEC Directives, IEC Supplement, available
at www.iec.ch/members_experts/refdocs. The main document types developed by IEC are
described in greater detail at www.iec.ch/publications.
A list of all parts in the IEC 61291 series, published under the general title Optical amplifiers,
can be found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under webstore.iec.ch in the data related to the
specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
IMPORTANT – The "colour inside" logo on the cover page of this document indicates that it
contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct understanding of its
contents. Users should therefore print this document using a colour printer.
INTRODUCTION
This document is devoted to the subject of optical amplifiers. The technology of optical
amplifiers is still rapidly evolving, hence amendments and new additions to this document can
be expected. Each abbreviated term introduced in this document is generally explained in the
text the first time it appears. However, for an easier understanding of the whole text, a list of all
abbreviated terms used in this document is given in Clause 3.
– 6 – IEC 61291-2:2023 RLV © IEC 2023
OPTICAL AMPLIFIERS –
Part 2: Single channel applications –
Performance specification template
1 Scope
This part of IEC 61291 provides a performance specification template applicable to optical
amplifiers (OAs) used in single channel applications. Multichannel applications are covered in
IEC 61291-4.
The objective of this performance specification template is to provide a framework for the
preparation of performance standards and/or product specifications on defining the
performance of OA devices used in single channel applications. In the performance standards
or product specifications, other specifications such as ratings, operating conditions, tests and
pass/fail criteria could be included in addition to the requirements based on this performance
specification template. In addition to the requirements specified in this template, a performance
standard or product specification could include other parameters, such as ratings, operating
conditions, tests, and pass/fail criteria.
For a particular application, product specification writers may could add specification
parameters and/or groups of specification parameters for particular applications to this template,
without removing the parameters specified in this document. However, product specification
writers should not remove specification parameters specified in this standard.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies.
For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60825-1, Safety of laser products – Part 1: Equipment classification and requirements
IEC 61000 (all parts), Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
IEC 61000-6-1, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-1: Generic standards – Immunity
standard for residential, commercial and light-industrial environments
IEC 61000-6-3, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-3: Generic standards – Emission
standard for equipment in residential environments
IEC 61290-1 (all parts), Optical amplifiers – Test methods – Part 1: Power and gain parameters
IEC 61290-3 (all parts), Optical amplifiers – Test methods – Part 3: Noise figure parameters
IEC 61290-4-3, Optical amplifiers – Test methods – Part 4-3: Power transient parameters –
Single channel optical amplifiers in output power control
IEC 61290-5 (all parts), Optical amplifiers – Test methods – Part 5: Reflectance parameters
IEC 61290-6-1, Optical fibre amplifiers – Basic specification – Part 6-1: Test methods for pump
leakage parameters – Optical demultiplexer
IEC 61290-11 (all parts), Optical amplifiers – Test methods – Part 11: Polarization mode
dispersion parameter
IEC 61291-1, Optical amplifiers – Part 1: Generic specification
IEC 61291-5-2, Optical amplifiers – Part 5-2: Qualification specifications – Reliability
qualification for optical fibre amplifiers
IEC TS 62538:2008, Categorization of optical devices
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviated terms
3.1 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 61291-1,
IEC TS 62538 and the following apply.
NOTE Possible supplementary definitions specific to OAs for single channel applications can be given in product
specifications.
3.1.1
optical amplifier
OA
optical waveguide device containing a suitably pumped, active medium that is able to amplify
an optical signal
[SOURCE: IEC TR 61931:1998, 2.7.75]
3.1.2
optical fibre amplifier
OFA
optical amplifier made of active optical fibre that is doped with rare-earth ions or that presents
non-linear optical effects in order to obtain optical amplification
3.1.3
semiconductor optical amplifier
SOA
optical amplifier in which the active optical waveguide is formed by a semiconductor laser diode
structure and will be electrically pumped
Note 1 to entry: The structure of these amplifiers is similar to that of Fabry-Perot laser diodes but with anti-reflection
design elements at the end-face surfaces. The signal is amplified through the stimulated emission phenomenon in
the gain medium.
[SOURCE: IEC TR 61931:1998, 2.7.77, modified – The note to entry has been added.]
3.1.4
optical element
unpackaged or partially packaged optical basic unit, typically non repairable and
non-re-workable (at least by users)
Note 1 to entry: Examples of optical elements include laser chips or laser diodes, photodiodes, lenses, prisms,
optical collimators, grating chips and filter chips.
[SOURCE: IEC TS 62538:2008, 2.2.1]
– 8 – IEC 61291-2:2023 RLV © IEC 2023
3.1.5
optical component
packaged unit comprising at least one optical element, typically non repairable and
non-re-workable (at least by users), suitably pigtailed or connectorized
Note 1 to entry: Examples of optical components include packaged lasers, photodiodes, optical splitters, couplers,
attenuators, isolators, MEMS, and modulators.
[SOURCE: IEC TS 62538:2008, 2.2.2]
3.1.6
optical module
packaged integration of optical components and/or elements, accomplishing defined
functionality, typically repairable and re-workable
Note 1 to entry: An optical module may comprise electronic components.
Note 2 to entry: An optical module is to be used as it is; users are not normally enabled to re-arrange inner
components or add other components inside.
[SOURCE: IEC TS 62538:2008, 2.2.5]
3.1.7
OFA component
fibre-pigtailed optical component that consists of fibre based gain medium such as an erbium-
doped fibre, one or more optical isolator(s), optical couplers for the wavelength-selector or the
power monitor, a package, and fibres
Note 1 to entry: An OFA component may include an optical filter, such as a gain equalizing filter or ASE rejection
filter, and possibly other components.
3.1.8
OFA module
fibre-pigtailed optical module that consists of an OFA component, pump laser component(s)
with driving circuit, monitor photodiode component(s) with driving circuit, and a control circuit
3.1.9
SOA element
optical element of SOA that consists of a semiconductor chip
3.1.10
SOA component
fibre-pigtailed optical component that consists of an SOA element, lenses, optical isolator(s)
(if necessary), a thermoelectric cooler (TEC), a thermistor, a package, and fibres
3.2 Abbreviated terms
EMC electromagnetic compatibility
OA optical amplifier
OFA optical fibre amplifier
SOA semiconductor optical amplifier
TEC thermoelectric cooler
4 Performance specification templates for power amplifiers
The following templates contain a minimum set of performance parameters to be included in
the specifications for OFA components or modules (see Table 1) and SOA components
(see Table 2) used as power amplifiers in single channel applications. The tables include
specification criteria (in terms of the maximum values, minimum values or both) and references
to the corresponding standards describing the test methods. Note that the list of the minimum
parameters for SOAs (see Table 2) covers SOA components only, because most SOA products
are currently traded commercialized in the form of the component using a package, such as a
butterfly-type package, which contains only the SOA.
Table 1 – Minimum relevant parameters for power amplifiers based on OFA components
or modules using active fibre specified for single channel applications
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Input power range dBm IEC 61290-1 series
a
dBm IEC 61290-1 series
Output power range
a
dB IEC 61290-1 series
Gain
Wavelength band nm IEC 61290-1 series
Signal-spontaneous noise dB n/a IEC 61290-3 series
figure
Polarization dependent gain dB n/a IEC 61290-1 series
Reverse amplified dBm n/a IEC 61290-3 series
spontaneous emission power
Transmission
level
characteristics
b
dB n/a IEC 61290-5 series
Input reflectance
b
dB n/a IEC 61290-3 series
Return loss
Maximum reflectance tolerable dB n/a IEC 61290-5 series
at input
Maximum reflectance tolerable dB n/a IEC 61290-5 series
at output
Pump leakage to input dBm n/a IEC 61290-6-1
Pump leakage to output dBm n/a IEC 61290-6-1
Maximum total output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1 series
Operating temperature °C See See
IEC 61291- IEC 61291-
5-2 5-2
Maximum operating relative % n/a See
humidity IEC 61291-
5-2
Maximum Range of Hz See See
operating frequencies IEC 61291- IEC 61291-
vibration 5-2 5-2
severity
Amplitude mm n/a See
peak-to-peak IEC 61291-
5-2
Duration s n/a See
Environmental
IEC 61291-
and reliability
5-2
parameters
See See
Storage temperature °C
IEC 61291- IEC 61291-
5-2 5-2
Maximum storage % n/a See
relative humidity IEC 61291-
5-2
Maximum Drop height mm n/a See
shock IEC 61291-
severity, free 5-2
drop
Failure rate FIT n/a See
IEC 61291-
5-2
– 10 – IEC 61291-2:2023 RLV © IEC 2023
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
a
Either output power range, gain, or both shall be stated.
b
Either input reflectance or return loss shall be specified.
n/a: not applicable
Table 2 – Minimum relevant parameters for power amplifiers based
on SOA components specified for single channel applications
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Input power range dBm IEC 61290-1
series
b
dBm IEC 61290-1
Output power range
series
b
dB n/a IEC 61290-1
Gain
series
Saturation output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Wavelength band nm IEC 61290-1
series
c
dB n/a Under
Gain ripple
consideration
IEC 61290-1
series
Transmission Signal-spontaneous noise figure dB n/a IEC 61290-3
a
series
characteristics
Polarization dependent gain dB n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Forward amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
emission power level series
Reverse amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
emission power level series
Input reflectance dB n/a IEC 61290-5
series
Maximum reflectance tolerable dB n/a IEC 61290-5
at input series
Maximum reflectance tolerable dB n/a IEC 61290-5
at output series
Maximum total output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Operating temperature °C
Maximum operating relative % n/a
humidity
Maximum Range of Hz
operating frequencies
Environmental
vibration
and reliability Amplitude mm n/a
severity
c
parameters peak-to-peak
Duration s n/a
Storage temperature °C
Maximum storage % n/a
relative humidity
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Maximum Drop height mm n/a
shock
severity,
free drop
Failure rate FIT n/a
Forward current mA
Forward bias voltage V
Gain peak wavelength nm
Operating
TEC current A
a,d
condition
TEC voltage V
Thermistor resistance Ω
Thermistor constant
a
Detailed information about SOA characteristics for saturation output power, gain, gain ripple, signal-
spontaneous noise figure, polarization dependent gain, maximum total output power, and operating conditions
are described in IEC TR 61292-9.
b
Either output power range, gain, or both shall be stated.
c
Measurement method should be defined in other documents.
c
There are no IEC publications regarding SOA reliability. There are two documents regarding reliability of fibre
optic active components and devices. These are IEC TR 62572-2 and IEC 62572-3, which deal with laser
modules. There are no IEC publications specifying reliability parameters for SOAs. The reliability of laser
modules is addressed in IEC TR 62572-2, and reliability parameters for laser modules are specified in
IEC 62572-3.
d
Operating conditions of a TEC and thermistor are commonly specified in IEC 62149-3, which covers the is a
performance standard for 2,5 Gb/s modulator-integrated laser diode modules transmitters for 40-Gbit/s fibre
optic transmission systems.
5 Performance specification templates for pre-amplifiers
The following templates contain a minimum set of performance parameters to be included in
the specifications for OFA components or modules (see Table 3) and SOA components
(see Table 4) used as pre-amplifiers in single channel applications. The tables include
specification criteria (in terms of the maximum values, minimum values, or both) and references
to the corresponding standards describing the test methods. Note that the list of the minimum
parameters for SOAs (see Table 4) covers SOA components only, because most SOA products
are currently traded commercialized in the form of the component using a package, such as a
butterfly-type package, which contains only the SOA.
– 12 – IEC 61291-2:2023 RLV © IEC 2023
Table 3 – Minimum relevant parameters for pre-amplifiers based on OFA components or
modules using active fibre specified for single channel applications
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Input power range dBm IEC 61290-1
series
a
dBm IEC 61290-1
Output power range
series
a
dB IEC 61290-1
Gain
series
Wavelength band nm IEC 61290-1
series
Available signal wavelength IEC 61290-1
nm
band series
Signal-spontaneous noise figure dB n/a IEC 61290-3
series
Polarization dependent gain dB n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Forward amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
Transmission
emission power level series
characteristics
Reverse amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
emission power level series
b
dB n/a IEC 61290-5
Input reflectance
series
b
dB n/a IEC 61290-3
Return loss
series
Maximum reflectance tolerable IEC 61290-5
dB n/a
at input series
Maximum reflectance tolerable dB n/a IEC 61290-5
at output series
Pump leakage to input dBm n/a IEC 61290-6-1
Pump leakage to output dBm n/a IEC 61290-6-1
Maximum total output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Transient power response dB n/a IEC 61290-4-3
Transient power response time s n/a IEC 61290-4-3
Transient
c
Transient power dB n/a IEC 61290-4-3
parameters
overcompensation response
Steady state power offset dB n/a IEC 61290-4-3
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Operating temperature °C See See
IEC 61291 IEC 61291
-5-2 -5-2
Maximum operating relative % n/a See
humidity IEC 61291
-5-2
Maximum Range of Hz See See
operating frequencies IEC 61291 IEC 61291
vibration -5-2 -5-2
severity
Amplitude mm n/a See
peak-to-peak IEC 61291
-5-2
Environmental
and reliability
Duration s n/a See
parameters
IEC 61291
-5-2
Storage temperature °C See See
IEC 61291 IEC 61291
-5-2 -5-2
Maximum storage % n/a See
relative humidity IEC 61291
-5-2
Maximum Drop height mm n/a See
shock IEC 61291
severity, -5-2
free drop
a
Either output power range, gain, or both shall be stated.
b
Either input reflectance or return loss shall be specified.
c
Transient parameters are applicable to OFA modules with output power control.
– 14 – IEC 61291-2:2023 RLV © IEC 2023
Table 4 – Minimum relevant parameters for pre-amplifiers based
on SOA components specified for single channel applications
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
IEC 61290-1
Input power range dBm
series
IEC 61290-1
b
Output power range dBm
series
IEC 61290-1
b
Gain dB n/a
series
IEC 61290-1
Saturation output power dBm n/a
series
IEC 61290-1
Wavelength band nm
series
Under
consideration
c
dB n/a
Gain ripple
IEC 61290-1
series
Transmission IEC 61290-3
Signal-spontaneous noise figure dB n/a
a
series
characteristics
IEC 61290-1
Polarization dependent gain dB n/a
series
Forward amplified spontaneous IEC 61290-3
dBm n/a
emission power level series
Reverse amplified spontaneous IEC 61290-3
dBm n/a
emission power level series
IEC 61290-5
Input reflectance dB n/a
series
Maximum reflectance tolerable IEC 61290-5
dB n/a
at input series
Maximum reflectance tolerable IEC 61290-5
dB n/a
at output series
IEC 61290-1
Maximum total output power dBm n/a
series
Operating temperature °C
Maximum operating relative
% n/a
humidity
Range of
Hz
frequencies
Maximum
operating
Amplitude
vibration mm n/a
peak-to-peak
severity
Environmental
Duration s n/a
and reliability
c
parameters
Storage temperature °C
Maximum storage
% n/a
relative humidity
Maximum
shock
Drop height mm n/a
severity,
free drop
Failure rate FIT n/a
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Forward current mA
Forward bias voltage V
Gain peak wavelength nm
Operating
TEC current A
a,d
condition
TEC voltage V
Thermistor resistance Ω
Thermistor constant
a
Detailed information about SOA characteristics for saturation output power, gain, gain ripple, signal-
spontaneous noise figure, polarization dependent gain, maximum total output power, and operating
conditions are described in IEC TR 61292-9.
b
Either output power range, gain, or both shall be stated.
c
Measurement method should be defined in other documents.
c
There are no IEC publications regarding SOA reliability. There are two documents regarding The reliability of
fibre optic active components and devices. These are IEC TR 62572-2 and IEC 62572-3, which deal with laser
modules. There are no IEC publications specifying reliability parameters for SOAs. The reliability of laser
modules is addressed in IEC TR 62572-2, and reliability parameters for laser modules are specified in
IEC 62572-3.
d
Operating conditions of a TEC and thermistor are commonly specified in IEC 62149-3, which covers the is a
performance standard for 2,5 Gb/s modulator-integrated laser diode modules transmitters for 40-Gbit/s fibre
optic transmission systems .
6 Performance specification templates for line amplifiers
The following templates contain a minimum set of performance parameters to be included in
specifications for OFA components and modules (see Table 5) and SOA components
(see Table 6) used as line amplifiers in single channel applications. These tables include
specification criteria (in terms of the maximum values, minimum values or both) and references
to the corresponding standards describing the test methods. Note that the list of the minimum
parameters for SOAs (see Table 6) covers SOA components only, because most SOA products
are currently traded commercialized in the form of the component using a package, such as a
butterfly-type package, which contains only the SOA.
– 16 – IEC 61291-2:2023 RLV © IEC 2023
Table 5 – Minimum relevant parameters for line amplifiers based on OFA components or
modules using active fibre specified for single channel applications
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Input power range dBm IEC 61290-1
series
a
dBm IEC 61290-1
Output power range
series
a
dB IEC 61290-1
Gain
series
Saturation output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1
series
IEC 61290-1
Wavelength band nm
series
Signal-spontaneous noise figure dB n/a IEC 61290-3
series
Polarization dependent gain dB n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Forward amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
emission power level series
Transmission
characteristics Reverse amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
emission power level series
b
Input reflectance n/a IEC 61290-5
dB
series
b
Return loss n/a IEC 61290-3
dB
series
Maximum reflectance tolerable IEC 61290-5
dB n/a
at input series
Maximum reflectance tolerable dB n/a IEC 61290-5
at output series
Pump leakage to input dBm n/a IEC 61290-6-1
Pump leakage to output dBm n/a IEC 61290-6-1
Maximum total output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Polarization mode dispersion ps n/a IEC 61290-11
series
Transient power/gain response dB n/a IEC 61290-4-3
Transient power/gain response s n/a IEC 61290-4-3
time
Transient
c
parameters
Transient power/gain dB n/a IEC 61290-4-3
overcompensation response
Steady state power/gain offset dB n/a IEC 61290-4-3
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Operating temperature °C See See
IEC 61291 IEC 61291
-5-2 -5-2
Maximum operating relative % n/a See
humidity IEC 61291
-5-2
Maximum Range of Hz See See
operating frequencies IEC 61291 IEC 61291
vibration -5-2 -5-2
severity
Amplitude mm n/a See
peak-to-peak IEC 61291
-5-2
Environmental
and reliability
Duration s n/a See
parameters
IEC 61291
-5-2
Storage temperature °C See See
IEC 61291 IEC 61291
-5-2 -5-2
Maximum storage % n/a See
relative humidity IEC 61291
-5-2
Maximum Drop height mm n/a See
shock IEC 61291
severity, -5-2
free drop
a
Either output power range, gain, or both shall be stated.
b
Either input reflectance or return loss shall be specified.
c
Transient parameters are applicable to OFA modules with output power control.
– 18 – IEC 61291-2:2023 RLV © IEC 2023
Table 6 – Minimum relevant parameters for line amplifiers based
on SOA components specified for single channel applications
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Input power range dBm IEC 61290-1
series
b
dBm IEC 61290-1
Output power range
series
b
dB n/a IEC 61290-1
Gain
series
Saturation output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1
series
IEC 61290-1
Wavelength band nm
series
c
dB n/a Under
Gain ripple
consideration
IEC 61290-1
series
Signal-spontaneous noise figure dB n/a IEC 61290-3
Transmission
series
a
characteristics
Polarization dependent gain dB n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Forward amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
emission power level series
Reverse amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
emission power level series
Input reflectance dB n/a IEC 61290-5
series
Maximum reflectance tolerable dB n/a IEC 61290-5
at input series
Maximum reflectance tolerable dB n/a IEC 61290-5
at output series
Maximum total output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Polarization mode dispersion ps n/a IEC 61290-11-1
Operating temperature °C
Maximum operating relative % n/a
humidity
Maximum Range of Hz
operating frequencies
vibration
Amplitude mm n/a
severity
peak-to-peak
Environmental
Duration s n/a
and reliability
c
parameters
Storage temperature °C
Maximum storage % n/a
relative humidity
Maximum Drop height mm n/a
shock
severity,
free drop
Failure rate FIT n/a
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Forward current mA
Forward bias voltage V
Peak wavelength nm
Operating
TEC current A
a,d
condition
TEC voltage V
Thermistor resistance Ω
Thermistor constant
a
Detailed information about SOA characteristics for saturation output power, gain, gain ripple, signal-
spontaneous noise figure, polarization dependent gain, maximum total output power, and operating conditions
are described in IEC TR 61292-9.
b
Either output power range, gain, or both shall be stated.
c
Measurement method should be defined in other documents.
c
There are no IEC publications regarding the SOA reliability. There are two documents regarding The reliability
of fibre optic active components and devices. These are IEC TR 62572-2 and IEC 62572-3, which deal with
laser modules. There are no IEC publications specifying reliability parameters for SOAs. The reliability of laser
modules is addressed in IEC TR 62572-2, and reliability parameters for laser modules are specified in
IEC 62572-3.
d
Operating conditions of a TEC and thermistor are commonly specified in IEC 62149-3, which covers the
performance standard for 2,5 Gb/s modulator-integrated laser diode modules transmitters for 40-Gbit/s fibre
optic transmission systems.
7 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements
The devices and assemblies addressed by this document shall comply with suitable
requirements for electromagnetic compatibility (in terms of both emission and immunity),
depending on particular usage/environment in which they are intended to be installed or
integrated the emission requirements specified in IEC 61000-6-3 and with the immunity
requirements specified in IEC 61000-6-1. Other EMC requirements are standardized in the
IEC 61000 series.
8 Laser safety requirements
The devices and assemblies addressed by this document shall be classified into the appropriate
laser class as covered in IEC 60825-1.
– 20 – IEC 61291-2:2023 RLV © IEC 2023
Bibliography
IEC 61000 (all parts), Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
IEC 61280 (all parts), Fibre optic communication subsystem test procedures
IEC 61291-4, Optical amplifiers – Part 4: Multichannel applications – Performance specification
template
IEC TR 61292-9, Optical amplifiers – Part 9: Semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs)
IEC TR 61931:1998, Fibre optic – Terminology
IEC 62148-11, Fibre optic active components and devices – Package and interface standards
– Part 11: 14-pin active device modules
IEC 62149-1, Fibre optic active components and devices – Performance standards – Part 1:
General and guidance
IEC 62149-3, Fibre optic active components and devices – Performance standards – Part 3:
Modulator-integrated laser diode transmitters for 2,5-Gbit/s to 40-Gbit/s fibre optic transmission
systems
IEC TR 62572-2, Fibre optic active components and devices – Reliability standards – Part 2:
Laser module degradation
IEC 62572-3, Fibre optic active components and devices – Reliability standards – Part 3: Laser
modules used for telecommunication
ITU-T G.957, Optical interfaces for equipments and systems relating to the synchronous digital
hierarchy
___________
IEC 61291-2 ®
Edition 5.0 2023-02
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Optical amplifiers –
Part 2: Single channel applications – Performance specification template
Amplificateurs optiques –
Partie 2: Applications à un seul canal – Modèle de spécifications de
performances
– 2 – IEC 61291-2:2023 © IEC 2023
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 3
INTRODUCTION . 5
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviated terms . 7
3.1 Terms and definitions . 7
3.2 Abbreviated terms . 8
4 Performance specification templates for power amplifiers . 8
5 Performance specification templates for pre-amplifiers . 11
6 Performance specification templates for line amplifiers . 15
7 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements . 19
8 Laser safety requirements . 19
Bibliography . 20
Table 1 – Minimum relevant parameters for power amplifiers based on OFA
components or modules using active fibre specified for single channel applications . 9
Table 2 – Minimum relevant parameters for power amplifiers based on SOA
components specified for single channel applications . 10
Table 3 – Minimum relevant parameters for pre-amplifiers based on OFA components
or modules using active fibre specified for single channel applications . 12
Table 4 – Minimum relevant parameters for pre-amplifiers based on SOA components
specified for single channel applications . 14
Table 5 – Minimum relevant parameters for line amplifiers based on OFA components
or modules using active fibre specified for single channel applications . 16
Table 6 – Minimum relevant parameters for line amplifiers based on SOA components
specified for single channel applications . 18
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
OPTICAL AMPLIFIERS –
Part 2: Single channel applications –
Performance specification template
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote international
co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To this end and
in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications, Technical Reports,
Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC Publication(s)”). Their
preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested in the subject dealt with
may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-governmental organizations liaising
with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely with the International Organization for
Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence between
any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of confo
...
IEC 61291-2 ®
Edition 5.0 2023-02
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Optical amplifiers –
Part 2: Single channel applications – Performance specification template
Amplificateurs optiques –
Partie 2: Applications à un seul canal – Modèle de spécifications de
performances
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IEC 61291-2 ®
Edition 5.0 2023-02
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Optical amplifiers –
Part 2: Single channel applications – Performance specification template
Amplificateurs optiques –
Partie 2: Applications à un seul canal – Modèle de spécifications de
performances
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 33.180.30 ISBN 978-2-8322-6454-6
– 2 – IEC 61291-2:2023 © IEC 2023
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 3
INTRODUCTION . 5
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviated terms . 7
3.1 Terms and definitions . 7
3.2 Abbreviated terms . 8
4 Performance specification templates for power amplifiers . 8
5 Performance specification templates for pre-amplifiers . 11
6 Performance specification templates for line amplifiers . 15
7 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements . 19
8 Laser safety requirements . 19
Bibliography . 20
Table 1 – Minimum relevant parameters for power amplifiers based on OFA
components or modules using active fibre specified for single channel applications . 9
Table 2 – Minimum relevant parameters for power amplifiers based on SOA
components specified for single channel applications . 10
Table 3 – Minimum relevant parameters for pre-amplifiers based on OFA components
or modules using active fibre specified for single channel applications . 12
Table 4 – Minimum relevant parameters for pre-amplifiers based on SOA components
specified for single channel applications . 14
Table 5 – Minimum relevant parameters for line amplifiers based on OFA components
or modules using active fibre specified for single channel applications . 16
Table 6 – Minimum relevant parameters for line amplifiers based on SOA components
specified for single channel applications . 18
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
OPTICAL AMPLIFIERS –
Part 2: Single channel applications –
Performance specification template
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote international
co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To this end and
in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications, Technical Reports,
Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC Publication(s)”). Their
preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested in the subject dealt with
may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-governmental organizations liaising
with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely with the International Organization for
Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence between
any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of conformity. IEC is not responsible for any
services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of patent
rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
IEC 61291-2 has been prepared by subcommittee 86C: Fibre optic systems and active devices,
of IEC technical committee 86: Fibre optics. It is an International Standard.
This fifth edition cancels and replaces the fourth edition published in 2016. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) the test methods for gain ripple in Table 2, Table 4 and Table 6 refer now to the IEC 61290-1
series;
b) the SOA definition (3.1.3) refers now to IEC 61931.
– 4 – IEC 61291-2:2023 © IEC 2023
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
Draft Report on voting
86C/1849/FDIS 86C/1858/RVD
Full information on the voting for its approval can be found in the report on voting indicated in
the above table.
The language used for the development of this International Standard is English.
This document was drafted in accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2, and developed in
accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and ISO/IEC Directives, IEC Supplement, available
at www.iec.ch/members_experts/refdocs. The main document types developed by IEC are
described in greater detail at www.iec.ch/publications.
A list of all parts in the IEC 61291 series, published under the general title Optical amplifiers,
can be found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under webstore.iec.ch in the data related to the
specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
INTRODUCTION
This document is devoted to the subject of optical amplifiers. The technology of optical
amplifiers is still rapidly evolving, hence amendments and new additions to this document can
be expected. Each abbreviated term introduced in this document is generally explained in the
text the first time it appears. However, for an easier understanding of the whole text, a list of all
abbreviated terms used in this document is given in Clause 3.
– 6 – IEC 61291-2:2023 © IEC 2023
OPTICAL AMPLIFIERS –
Part 2: Single channel applications –
Performance specification template
1 Scope
This part of IEC 61291 provides a performance specification template applicable to optical
amplifiers (OAs) used in single channel applications. Multichannel applications are covered in
IEC 61291-4.
The objective of this template is to provide a framework for the preparation of performance
standards and/or product specifications defining the performance of OA devices used in single
channel applications. In addition to the requirements specified in this template, a performance
standard or product specification could include other parameters, such as ratings, operating
conditions, tests, and pass/fail criteria.
For a particular application, product specification writers could add specification parameters
and/or groups of specification parameters to this template, without removing the parameters
specified in this document.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies.
For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60825-1, Safety of laser products – Part 1: Equipment classification and requirements
IEC 61000-6-1, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-1: Generic standards – Immunity
standard for residential, commercial and light-industrial environments
IEC 61000-6-3, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-3: Generic standards – Emission
standard for equipment in residential environments
IEC 61290-1 (all parts), Optical amplifiers – Test methods – Part 1: Power and gain parameters
IEC 61290-3 (all parts), Optical amplifiers – Test methods – Part 3: Noise figure parameters
IEC 61290-4-3, Optical amplifiers – Test methods – Part 4-3: Power transient parameters –
Single channel optical amplifiers in output power control
IEC 61290-5 (all parts), Optical amplifiers – Test methods – Part 5: Reflectance parameters
IEC 61290-6-1, Optical fibre amplifiers – Basic specification – Part 6-1: Test methods for pump
leakage parameters – Optical demultiplexer
IEC 61290-11 (all parts), Optical amplifiers – Test methods – Part 11: Polarization mode
dispersion parameter
IEC 61291-1, Optical amplifiers – Part 1: Generic specification
IEC 61291-5-2, Optical amplifiers – Part 5-2: Qualification specifications – Reliability
qualification for optical fibre amplifiers
IEC TS 62538:2008, Categorization of optical devices
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviated terms
3.1 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 61291-1,
IEC TS 62538 and the following apply.
NOTE Possible supplementary definitions specific to OAs for single channel applications can be given in product
specifications.
3.1.1
optical amplifier
OA
optical waveguide device containing a suitably pumped, active medium that is able to amplify
an optical signal
[SOURCE: IEC TR 61931:1998, 2.7.75]
3.1.2
optical fibre amplifier
OFA
optical amplifier made of active optical fibre that is doped with rare-earth ions or that presents
non-linear optical effects in order to obtain optical amplification
3.1.3
semiconductor optical amplifier
SOA
optical amplifier in which the active optical waveguide is formed by a semiconductor laser diode
structure and will be electrically pumped
Note 1 to entry: The structure of these amplifiers is similar to that of Fabry-Perot laser diodes but with anti-reflection
design elements at the end-face surfaces. The signal is amplified through the stimulated emission phenomenon in
the gain medium.
[SOURCE: IEC TR 61931:1998, 2.7.77, modified – The note to entry has been added.]
3.1.4
optical element
unpackaged or partially packaged optical basic unit, typically non repairable and
non-re-workable (at least by users)
Note 1 to entry: Examples of optical elements include laser chips or laser diodes, photodiodes, lenses, prisms,
optical collimators, grating chips and filter chips.
[SOURCE: IEC TS 62538:2008, 2.2.1]
3.1.5
optical component
packaged unit comprising at least one optical element, typically non repairable and
non-re-workable (at least by users), suitably pigtailed or connectorized
Note 1 to entry: Examples of optical components include packaged lasers, photodiodes, optical splitters, couplers,
attenuators, isolators, MEMS, and modulators.
[SOURCE: IEC TS 62538:2008, 2.2.2]
– 8 – IEC 61291-2:2023 © IEC 2023
3.1.6
optical module
packaged integration of optical components and/or elements, accomplishing defined
functionality, typically repairable and re-workable
Note 1 to entry: An optical module may comprise electronic components.
Note 2 to entry: An optical module is to be used as it is; users are not normally enabled to re-arrange inner
components or add other components inside.
[SOURCE: IEC TS 62538:2008, 2.2.5]
3.1.7
OFA component
fibre-pigtailed optical component that consists of fibre based gain medium such as an erbium-
doped fibre, one or more optical isolator(s), optical couplers for the wavelength-selector or the
power monitor, a package, and fibres
Note 1 to entry: An OFA component may include an optical filter, such as a gain equalizing filter or ASE rejection
filter, and possibly other components.
3.1.8
OFA module
fibre-pigtailed optical module that consists of an OFA component, pump laser component(s)
with driving circuit, monitor photodiode component(s) with driving circuit, and a control circuit
3.1.9
SOA element
optical element of SOA that consists of a semiconductor chip
3.1.10
SOA component
fibre-pigtailed optical component that consists of an SOA element, lenses, optical isolator(s)
(if necessary), a thermoelectric cooler (TEC), a thermistor, a package, and fibres
3.2 Abbreviated terms
EMC electromagnetic compatibility
OA optical amplifier
OFA optical fibre amplifier
SOA semiconductor optical amplifier
TEC thermoelectric cooler
4 Performance specification templates for power amplifiers
The following templates contain a minimum set of performance parameters to be included in
the specifications for OFA components or modules (see Table 1) and SOA components
(see Table 2) used as power amplifiers in single channel applications. The tables include
specification criteria (in terms of the maximum values, minimum values or both) and references
to the corresponding standards describing the test methods. Note that the list of the minimum
parameters for SOAs (see Table 2) covers SOA components only, because most SOA products
are currently commercialized in the form of a package, such as a butterfly-type package, which
contains only the SOA.
Table 1 – Minimum relevant parameters for power amplifiers based on OFA components
or modules using active fibre specified for single channel applications
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Input power range dBm IEC 61290-1 series
a
dBm IEC 61290-1 series
Output power range
a
dB IEC 61290-1 series
Gain
Wavelength band nm IEC 61290-1 series
Signal-spontaneous noise dB n/a IEC 61290-3 series
figure
Polarization dependent gain dB n/a IEC 61290-1 series
Reverse amplified dBm n/a IEC 61290-3 series
spontaneous emission power
Transmission
level
characteristics
b
dB n/a IEC 61290-5 series
Input reflectance
b
dB n/a IEC 61290-3 series
Return loss
Maximum reflectance tolerable dB n/a IEC 61290-5 series
at input
Maximum reflectance tolerable dB n/a IEC 61290-5 series
at output
Pump leakage to input dBm n/a IEC 61290-6-1
Pump leakage to output dBm n/a IEC 61290-6-1
Maximum total output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1 series
Operating temperature °C See See
IEC 61291- IEC 61291-
5-2 5-2
Maximum operating relative % n/a See
humidity IEC 61291-
5-2
Maximum Range of Hz See See
operating frequencies IEC 61291- IEC 61291-
vibration 5-2 5-2
severity
Amplitude mm n/a See
peak-to-peak IEC 61291-
5-2
Duration s n/a See
Environmental
IEC 61291-
and reliability
5-2
parameters
Storage temperature °C See See
IEC 61291- IEC 61291-
5-2 5-2
Maximum storage % n/a See
relative humidity IEC 61291-
5-2
Maximum Drop height mm n/a See
shock IEC 61291-
severity, free 5-2
drop
Failure rate FIT n/a See
IEC 61291-
5-2
a
Either output power range, gain, or both shall be stated.
b
Either input reflectance or return loss shall be specified.
n/a: not applicable
– 10 – IEC 61291-2:2023 © IEC 2023
Table 2 – Minimum relevant parameters for power amplifiers based
on SOA components specified for single channel applications
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Input power range dBm IEC 61290-1
series
b
dBm IEC 61290-1
Output power range
series
b
dB n/a IEC 61290-1
Gain
series
Saturation output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1
series
IEC 61290-1
Wavelength band nm
series
Gain ripple dB n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Signal-spontaneous noise figure dB n/a IEC 61290-3
series
Transmission
a
characteristics
Polarization dependent gain dB n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Forward amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
emission power level series
Reverse amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
emission power level series
Input reflectance dB n/a IEC 61290-5
series
Maximum reflectance tolerable IEC 61290-5
dB n/a
at input series
Maximum reflectance tolerable dB n/a IEC 61290-5
at output series
Maximum total output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Operating temperature °C
Maximum operating relative % n/a
humidity
Maximum Range of Hz
operating frequencies
vibration
Amplitude mm n/a
severity
peak-to-peak
Environmental
Duration s n/a
and reliability
c
parameters
Storage temperature °C
Maximum storage % n/a
relative humidity
Maximum
Drop height mm n/a
shock
severity,
free drop
Failure rate FIT n/a
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Forward current mA
Forward bias voltage V
Gain peak wavelength nm
Operating
TEC current A
a,d
condition
TEC voltage V
Thermistor resistance Ω
Thermistor constant
a
Detailed information about SOA characteristics for saturation output power, gain, gain ripple, signal-
spontaneous noise figure, polarization dependent gain, maximum total output power, and operating conditions
are described in IEC TR 61292-9.
b
Either output power range, gain, or both shall be stated.
c
There are no IEC publications specifying reliability parameters for SOAs. The reliability of laser modules is
addressed in IEC TR 62572-2, and reliability parameters for laser modules are specified in IEC 62572-3.
d
Operating conditions of a TEC and thermistor are commonly specified in IEC 62149-3, which is a performance
standard for modulator-integrated laser diode transmitters for 40-Gbit/s fibre optic transmission systems.
5 Performance specification templates for pre-amplifiers
The following templates contain a minimum set of performance parameters to be included in
the specifications for OFA components or modules (see Table 3) and SOA components
(see Table 4) used as pre-amplifiers in single channel applications. The tables include
specification criteria (in terms of the maximum values, minimum values, or both) and references
to the corresponding standards describing the test methods. Note that the list of the minimum
parameters for SOAs (see Table 4) covers SOA components only, because most SOA products
are currently commercialized in the form of a package, such as a butterfly-type package, which
contains only the SOA.
– 12 – IEC 61291-2:2023 © IEC 2023
Table 3 – Minimum relevant parameters for pre-amplifiers based on OFA components or
modules using active fibre specified for single channel applications
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Input power range dBm IEC 61290-1
series
a
dBm IEC 61290-1
Output power range
series
a
dB IEC 61290-1
Gain
series
Wavelength band nm IEC 61290-1
series
Available signal wavelength IEC 61290-1
nm
band series
Signal-spontaneous noise figure dB n/a IEC 61290-3
series
Polarization dependent gain dB n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Forward amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
Transmission
emission power level series
characteristics
Reverse amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
emission power level series
b
dB n/a IEC 61290-5
Input reflectance
series
b
dB n/a IEC 61290-3
Return loss
series
Maximum reflectance tolerable IEC 61290-5
dB n/a
at input series
Maximum reflectance tolerable dB n/a IEC 61290-5
at output series
Pump leakage to input dBm n/a IEC 61290-6-1
Pump leakage to output dBm n/a IEC 61290-6-1
Maximum total output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Transient power response dB n/a IEC 61290-4-3
Transient power response time s n/a IEC 61290-4-3
Transient
c
Transient power dB n/a IEC 61290-4-3
parameters
overcompensation response
Steady state power offset dB n/a IEC 61290-4-3
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Operating temperature °C See See
IEC 61291 IEC 61291
-5-2 -5-2
Maximum operating relative % n/a See
humidity IEC 61291
-5-2
Maximum Range of Hz See See
operating frequencies IEC 61291 IEC 61291
vibration -5-2 -5-2
severity
Amplitude mm n/a See
peak-to-peak IEC 61291
-5-2
Environmental
and reliability
Duration s n/a See
parameters
IEC 61291
-5-2
Storage temperature °C See See
IEC 61291 IEC 61291
-5-2 -5-2
Maximum storage % n/a See
relative humidity IEC 61291
-5-2
Maximum Drop height mm n/a See
shock IEC 61291
severity, -5-2
free drop
a
Either output power range, gain, or both shall be stated.
b
Either input reflectance or return loss shall be specified.
c
Transient parameters are applicable to OFA modules with output power control.
– 14 – IEC 61291-2:2023 © IEC 2023
Table 4 – Minimum relevant parameters for pre-amplifiers based
on SOA components specified for single channel applications
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
IEC 61290-1
Input power range dBm
series
IEC 61290-1
b
Output power range dBm
series
IEC 61290-1
b
Gain dB n/a
series
IEC 61290-1
Saturation output power dBm n/a
series
IEC 61290-1
Wavelength band nm
series
IEC 61290-1
Gain ripple dB n/a
series
IEC 61290-3
Signal-spontaneous noise figure dB n/a
series
Transmission
a
characteristics
IEC 61290-1
Polarization dependent gain dB n/a
series
Forward amplified spontaneous IEC 61290-3
dBm n/a
emission power level series
Reverse amplified spontaneous IEC 61290-3
dBm n/a
emission power level series
IEC 61290-5
Input reflectance dB n/a
series
Maximum reflectance tolerable IEC 61290-5
dB n/a
at input series
Maximum reflectance tolerable IEC 61290-5
dB n/a
at output series
IEC 61290-1
Maximum total output power dBm n/a
series
Operating temperature °C
Maximum operating relative
% n/a
humidity
Range of
Hz
frequencies
Maximum
operating
Amplitude
vibration mm n/a
peak-to-peak
severity
Environmental
Duration s n/a
and reliability
c
parameters
Storage temperature °C
Maximum storage
% n/a
relative humidity
Maximum
shock
Drop height mm n/a
severity,
free drop
Failure rate FIT n/a
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Forward current mA
Forward bias voltage V
Gain peak wavelength nm
Operating
TEC current A
a,d
condition
TEC voltage V
Thermistor resistance Ω
Thermistor constant
a
Detailed information about SOA characteristics for saturation output power, gain, gain ripple, signal-
spontaneous noise figure, polarization dependent gain, maximum total output power, and operating
conditions are described in IEC TR 61292-9.
b
Either output power range, gain, or both shall be stated.
c
There are no IEC publications specifying reliability parameters for SOAs. The reliability of laser modules is
addressed in IEC TR 62572-2, and reliability parameters for laser modules are specified in IEC 62572-3.
d
Operating conditions of a TEC and thermistor are commonly specified in IEC 62149-3, which is a
performance standard for modulator-integrated laser diode transmitters for 40-Gbit/s fibre optic transmission
systems .
6 Performance specification templates for line amplifiers
The following templates contain a minimum set of performance parameters to be included in
specifications for OFA components and modules (see Table 5) and SOA components
(see Table 6) used as line amplifiers in single channel applications. These tables include
specification criteria (in terms of the maximum values, minimum values or both) and references
to the corresponding standards describing the test methods. Note that the list of the minimum
parameters for SOAs (see Table 6) covers SOA components only, because most SOA products
are currently commercialized in the form of a package, such as a butterfly-type package, which
contains only the SOA.
– 16 – IEC 61291-2:2023 © IEC 2023
Table 5 – Minimum relevant parameters for line amplifiers based on OFA components or
modules using active fibre specified for single channel applications
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Input power range dBm IEC 61290-1
series
a
dBm IEC 61290-1
Output power range
series
a
dB IEC 61290-1
Gain
series
Saturation output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1
series
IEC 61290-1
Wavelength band nm
series
Signal-spontaneous noise figure dB n/a IEC 61290-3
series
Polarization dependent gain dB n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Forward amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
emission power level series
Transmission
characteristics Reverse amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
emission power level series
b
Input reflectance n/a IEC 61290-5
dB
series
b
Return loss n/a IEC 61290-3
dB
series
Maximum reflectance tolerable IEC 61290-5
dB n/a
at input series
Maximum reflectance tolerable dB n/a IEC 61290-5
at output series
Pump leakage to input dBm n/a IEC 61290-6-1
Pump leakage to output dBm n/a IEC 61290-6-1
Maximum total output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Polarization mode dispersion ps n/a IEC 61290-11
series
Transient power/gain response dB n/a IEC 61290-4-3
Transient power/gain response s n/a IEC 61290-4-3
time
Transient
c
parameters
Transient power/gain dB n/a IEC 61290-4-3
overcompensation response
Steady state power/gain offset dB n/a IEC 61290-4-3
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Operating temperature °C See See
IEC 61291 IEC 61291
-5-2 -5-2
Maximum operating relative % n/a See
humidity IEC 61291
-5-2
Maximum Range of Hz See See
operating frequencies IEC 61291 IEC 61291
vibration -5-2 -5-2
severity
Amplitude mm n/a See
peak-to-peak IEC 61291
-5-2
Environmental
and reliability
Duration s n/a See
parameters
IEC 61291
-5-2
Storage temperature °C See See
IEC 61291 IEC 61291
-5-2 -5-2
Maximum storage % n/a See
relative humidity IEC 61291
-5-2
Maximum Drop height mm n/a See
shock IEC 61291
severity, -5-2
free drop
a
Either output power range, gain, or both shall be stated.
b
Either input reflectance or return loss shall be specified.
c
Transient parameters are applicable to OFA modules with output power control.
– 18 – IEC 61291-2:2023 © IEC 2023
Table 6 – Minimum relevant parameters for line amplifiers based
on SOA components specified for single channel applications
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Input power range dBm IEC 61290-1
series
b
dBm IEC 61290-1
Output power range
series
b
dB n/a IEC 61290-1
Gain
series
Saturation output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1
series
IEC 61290-1
Wavelength band nm
series
Gain ripple dB n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Signal-spontaneous noise figure dB n/a IEC 61290-3
series
Transmission
Polarization dependent gain dB n/a IEC 61290-1
a
characteristics
series
Forward amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
emission power level series
Reverse amplified spontaneous dBm n/a IEC 61290-3
emission power level series
Input reflectance dB n/a IEC 61290-5
series
Maximum reflectance tolerable IEC 61290-5
dB n/a
at input series
Maximum reflectance tolerable dB n/a IEC 61290-5
at output series
Maximum total output power dBm n/a IEC 61290-1
series
Polarization mode dispersion ps n/a IEC 61290-11-1
Operating temperature °C
Maximum operating relative % n/a
humidity
Maximum Range of Hz
operating frequencies
vibration
Amplitude mm n/a
severity
peak-to-peak
Environmental
Duration s n/a
and reliability
c
parameters
Storage temperature °C
Maximum storage % n/a
relative humidity
Maximum Drop height mm n/a
shock
severity,
free drop
Failure rate FIT n/a
Minimum Maximum
Parameters Unit IEC test method
values values
Forward current mA
Forward bias voltage V
Peak wavelength nm
Operating
TEC current A
a,d
condition
TEC voltage V
Thermistor resistance Ω
Thermistor constant
a
Detailed information about SOA characteristics for saturation output power, gain, gain ripple, signal-
spontaneous noise figure, polarization dependent gain, maximum total output power, and operating conditions
are described in IEC TR 61292-9.
b
Either output power range, gain, or both shall be stated.
c
There are no IEC publications specifying reliability parameters for SOAs. The reliability of laser modules is
addressed in IEC TR 62572-2, and reliability parameters for laser modules are specified in IEC 62572-3.
d
Operating conditions of a TEC and thermistor are commonly specified in IEC 62149-3, which covers the
performance standard for modulator-integrated laser diode transmitters for 40-Gbit/s fibre optic transmission
systems.
7 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements
The devices and assemblies addressed by this document shall comply with the emission
requirements specified in IEC 61000-6-3 and with the immunity requirements specified in
IEC 61000-6-1. Other EMC requirements are standardized in the IEC 61000 series.
8 Laser safety requirements
The devices and assemblies addressed by this document shall be classified into the appropriate
laser class as covered in IEC 60825-1.
– 20 – IEC 61291-2:2023 © IEC 2023
Bibliography
IEC 61000 (all parts), Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
IEC 61280 (all parts), Fibre optic communication subsystem test procedures
IEC 61291-4, Optical amplifiers – Part 4: Multichannel applications – Performance specification
template
IEC TR 61292-9, Optical amplifiers – Part 9: Semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs)
IEC TR 61931:1998, Fibre optic – Terminology
IEC 62148-11, Fibre optic active components and devices – Package and interface standards
– Part 11: 14-pin active device modules
IEC 62149-1, Fibre optic active components and devices – Performance standards – Part 1:
General and guidance
IEC 62149-3, Fibre optic active components and devices – Performance standards – Part 3:
Modulator-integrated laser diode transmitters for 40-Gbit/s fibre optic transmission systems
IEC TR 62572-2, Fibre optic active components and devices – Reliability standards – Part 2:
Laser module degradation
IEC 62572-3, Fibre optic active components and devices – Reliability standards – Part 3: Laser
modules used for telecommunication
ITU-T G.957, Optical interfaces for equipments and systems relating to the synchronous digital
hierarchy
___________
– 22 – IEC 61291-2:2023 © IEC 2023
SOMMAIRE
AVANT-PROPOS . 23
INTRODUCTION . 25
1 Domaine d’application . 26
2 Références normatives . 26
3 Termes, définitions et abréviations . 27
3.1 Termes et définitions . 27
3.2 Abréviations . 28
4 Modèles de spécifications de performances pour amplificateurs de puissance . 29
5 Modèles de spécifications de performances pour préamplificateurs . 31
6 Modèles de spécifications de performances pour amplificateurs de ligne . 34
7 Exigences de compatibilité électromagnétique (CEM) . 38
8 Exigences relatives à la sécurité des lasers . 38
Bibliographie . 39
Tableau 1 – Paramètres minimaux applicables pour les amplificateurs de puissance
basés sur des composants ou modules OFA utilisant une fibre active spécifiée pour
des applications à un seul canal . 29
Tableau 2 – Paramètres minimaux applicables pour les amplificateurs de puissance
basés sur des composants SOA spécifiés pour des applications à un seul canal . 30
Tableau 3 – Paramètres minimaux applicables pour les préamplificateurs basés sur
des composants ou modules OFA utilisant une fibre active spécifiée pour des
applications à un seul canal . 32
Tableau 4 – Paramètres minimaux applicables pour les préamplificateurs basés sur
des composants SOA spécifiés pour des applications à un seul canal . 33
Tableau 5 – Paramètres minimaux applicables pour les amplificateurs de ligne basés
sur des composants ou modules OFA utilisant une fibre active spécifiée pour des
applications à un seul canal . 35
Tableau 6 – Paramètres minimaux applicables pour les amplificateurs de ligne basés
sur des composants SOA spécifiés pour des applications à un seul canal . 37
COMMISSION ÉLECTROTECHNIQUE INTERNATIONALE
____________
AMPLIFICATEURS OPTIQUES –
Partie 2: Applications à un seul canal –
Modèle de spécifications de performances
AVANT-PROPOS
1) La Commission Electrotechnique Internationale (IEC) est une organisation mondiale de normalisation composée
de l’ensemble des comités électrotechniques nationaux (Comités nationaux de l’IEC). L’IEC a pour objet
de favoriser la coopération internationale pour toutes les questions de normalisation dans les domaines
de l’électricité et de l’électronique. A cet effet, l’IEC – entre autres activités – publie des Normes internationales,
des Spécifications techniques, des Rapports techniques, des Spécifications accessibles au public (PAS) et
des Guides (ci-après dénommés "Publication(s) de l’IEC"). Leur élaboration est confiée à des comités d’études,
aux travaux desquels tout Comité national intéressé par le sujet traité peut participer. Les organisations
internationales, gouvernementales et non gouvernementales, en liaison avec l’IEC, participent également
aux travaux. L’IEC collabore étroitement avec l’Organisation Internationale de Normalisation (ISO), selon
des conditions fixées par accord entre les deux organisations.
2) Les décisions ou accords officiels de l’IEC concernant les questions techniques représentent, dans la mesure
du possible, un accord international sur les sujets étudiés, étant donné que les Comités nationaux de l’IEC
intéressés sont représentés dans chaque comité d’études.
3) Les Publications de l’IEC se présentent sous la forme de recommandations internationales et sont agréées
comme telles par les Comités nationaux de l’IEC. Tous les efforts raisonnables sont entrepris afin que l’IEC
s’assure de l’exactitude du contenu technique de ses Publications; l’IEC ne peut pas être tenue responsable
de l’éventuelle mauvaise utilisation ou interprétation qui en est faite par un quelconque utilisateur final.
4) Dans le but d’encourager l’uniformité internationale, les Comités nationaux de l’IEC s’engagent, dans toute
la mesure possible, à appliquer de façon transparente les
...










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