What Should You Consider When Choosing an Optical Spectrum Analyzer?

[Reshma]

Hi..

My department is considering to purchase an Optical Spectrum Analyzer (OSA). I had run a search on GlobalSpec, but I am really getting confused over the hundreds of spectrum analyzers available. I am looking for a diffraction-grating based analyzer that covers a broad range of wavelengths. Does anyone here has experience in this field and make some suggestions on the suitable parameters I should be looking for in an OSA?

Thanks in advance,
Reshma

 

[Redbelly98]

What range of wavelengths do you want? Other important features would be resolution and computer interface + software.

Here are 2 models:
http://www.newport.com/Spectroscopy-Instruments/1033/642094/product.aspx
http://www.jobinyvon.com/SiteResources/Data/Templates/1divisional.asp?DocID=1296&v1ID=&lang=

Also, it's very useful to have 1 or 2 calibration lamps to calibrate the wavelength scale:
http://www.newport.com/Oriel-Pencil-Style-Calibration-Lamps/377846/1033/catalog.aspx

 

[Reshma]

Hi Redbelly98!

Thanks for replying. The links you gave me were spectrometers. What I am a looking for is a spectrum analyzer. Spectrum analyzers have a much higher resolution. I am looking for one in the short-wavelength limit. But so far I have found only those in the higher wavelength range.

 

[dlgoff]

Here is a search on photonics.com that might be of help. Like you say, there are lots of choices.
http://photonics.com/photonicsFind.aspx?searchString=spectrum%20analyzer&searchIndex=0"