NIST Expands Wavemeter Calibration Service for Telecommunications
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has expanded its calibration service to include wavemeters used in telecommunications. These devices measure light wavelengths used to transmit data over fiber-optic cables. As data transmission demands increase, precise calibration of these devices becomes more critical.
A single fiber-optic cable can carry multiple wavelengths, each representing a separate data channel. If wavelengths overlap due to imprecise measurements, it can severely impair data transmission. NIST’s new service calibrates wavemeters at telecommunication wavelengths ranging from 1520 to 1570 nanometers (nm) and at 1310 nm and 1625 nm, with plans to expand to other wavelengths upon request.
The calibration process relies on an optical frequency comb, a tool that measures light frequencies with high precision. This method is traceable to the international standard for the second, ensuring accuracy. The demand for wavemeter calibrations is expected to grow as telecommunications networks handle increasing amounts of high-speed data.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2024/12/nist-offers-new-calibration-service-wavemeters
Keywords: Metrology, Calibration, Telecommunication
