VIAVI Solutions
Data Sheet
VIAVI
Variable Back Reflector (mVBR-C1)
MAP Series Metrology Grade Optical Back Reflector
The MAP Series Variable Back Reflector (mVBR-C) cassette
provides precise levels of return loss to transmitters, enabling
measurement of system sensitivity and system degradation as a
function of back reflection.
Benefits
y Single-mode and multimode variants
y Can be automated when used with a MAP
series mainframe LXI-compliant interfaces
and IVI drivers
y Can be combined with other MAP-Series
modules to perfume IEEE standard testing
y . dB resolution
y Operation at / or / nm
Applications
y Transmitter/receiver development and
testing
y Reflection testing for connectors
y Quality assurance acceptance testing
y Laser development and production
y Validation instrument for verifying RL
equipment
y R&D compliance testing
y OTDR testing
Safety Information
Complies with CE, CSA/UL/IEC, plus
LXI class C requirements when installed in a
MAP chassis
Together with a transmitter/receiver
pair and characterization equipment,
the MAP back reflector can be used to
establish the magnitude of reflections
that significantly degrade transmission
system performance, and to characterize
the problems they cause.
The MAP backreflector uses the VIAVI
linear attenuator prism and high
reflectivity mirror to precisely control the
level of RL.
The cassette is available in single-mode (SM) or multimode
(MM) fibers and with an optional coupler for monitoring.
Input and
reflected output
Attenuator
Reflector
2 Variable Back Reflector (mVBR-C1)
Functional Description
In transmission systems, power fluctuations due to back reflection distort the signal and translate to an
increased bit error rate, which can be measured as a function of back reflection.
MAP Series mVBR cassettes are used to study the effects of varied back reflected signals on transmitter or laser
performance. Figure 1 shows a typical test configuration using the mVBR cassette and an external coupler. With
this configuration, the coupler splits the light injected from the source, sending a portion of it to the mVBR and
the rest to the test system.
An offset setting can be configured on the mVBR to compensate for losses
occurring at connectors and through any additional components between the
source and the mVBR.
An intuitive graphic user interface (GUI) is optimized for use in either a
laboratory or a manufacturing environment.
Chassis and Modular Family
The VIAVI Multiple Application Platform (MAP) is a modular, rack mountable or benchtop, optical test and
measurement platform with chassis’ that can host 2, 3 or 8 application modules. The LightDirect family of
modules are characterized by their simple control and single function nature. Individually or together they form
the foundation of a diverse array of optical test applications. The web enabled multiuser interface is simple and
intuitive. LXI compliant with a full suite of SCPI based automation drivers and PC based management tools, the
VIAVI MAP is optimized for both the lab to manufacturing environments.
The mVBR is part of the LightDirect module family. Alongside the many other modules, such as light sources,
polarization scramblers, power meters, and
spectrum analyzers, the MAP series is the ideal,
modular platform for photonic system and
module testing.
The mVBR is compatible with all current
MAP-300 and MAP-200 chassis through SCIPI
commands. A GUI is also offered in MAP-300.
Source Under Test Coupler Test System
mVBR
Figure 1 - Test configuration - mVBR cassette and external coupler
Figure 2 – mVBR MAP-300 summary view GUI