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Racal Instruments, Inc. (Irvine, CA) has launched a range of low loss VXIbus optical switching. Now covering broadband, this line extends Racal's test capability, from DC, audio, RF, T1 and microwave through to optical. These cards are the first in a new range of VXIbus optical instrumentation modules designed to provide telecommunications engineers with a complete broadband test capability, from switching cards and attenuators to power meters and polarization measurement modules.

This suite of eight, C-size, VXIbus broadband optical switch modules are available in both single and double-slot widths and consist of the 1260-84A/B, 1x 4 models and the 1260-88A/B, 1x 8 models. Suitable for use on single mode optical fiber systems and applicable to other fiber types on request, the new modules cover the wavelength range of 1290 nm to 1570 nm.

All modules in the 1260-84/88 switching card range feature diffraction-limited collimating lenses for enhanced thermal stability and repeatability. Providing insertion losses of 0.6dB typical, repeatability for sequential switching of +/- 0.01dB and typical isolation of 90dB, the VXIbus broadband test architecture addresses the problems of accumulated losses and repeatability through arrays of multiple switch paths.

Available immediately, following recent Beta site evaluation, Racal plans to supply its new broadband optical switch products within four weeks from receipt of order. At a nominal charge, Racal will provide additional overnight depot warranty and service replacement for its broadband switching card range. In addition, the new 1260-84 and 1260-88 cards are supplied complete with VXIplug&play install disks for the Win95 and WinNT frameworks, and include native LabView and LabWindows/CVI drivers.

The 1260-84/88 cards may be controlled by Racal's Option-01T interface module. Eliminating the need to use inflexible standalone GPIB and non-standard PC-based solutions, as well as reducing the requirement to hold expensive additional backup units, the VXIbus broadband switching facilities are adaptable, configurable and therefore reusable.

CE Mark-approved and EMC-compliant, Racal's 1260-84 and 1260-88 comply with European electrical safety standards.

Contact Kevin Leduc, Marketing Manager, 4 Goodyear Street, Irvine, California 92618. Telephone: 800-RACAL-ATE (800-722-2528); Fax 949-859-7139.