THORLABS MX40G Series, User Manual, Page: 5 / 44

MX40G, MX70G Series of E-O Converters Chapter 1: Introduction
Rev. E, March 19, 2019 Page 1
Chapter 1 Introduction
1.1 Description
Thorlabs' MX40G series (MX40G, MX40G-LB, and MX40G-1310) and MX70G series (MX70G, MX70G-LB, and MX70G-1310)
of Electrical to Optical (E-O) Converters offer frequency response to 40 GHz and 70 GHz, respectively. Each converter
incorporates a telecommunication grade lithium niobate (LiNbO
3
) modulator that is stabilized by a fully automatic bias controller.
Select an internal tunable laser source or fixed-wavelength laser source or couple an external laser operating from 1250 nm to
1610 nm to the PM FC/PC fiber optic connector on the input panel. The instrument is fully driven using the intuitive graphical
user interface (GUI) touchscreen, and the RS-232 connection on the back panel enables remote control of many instrument
functions. Please contact Thorlabs technical support for up-to-date information on the firmware revisions and control functions
available.
These converters are particularly well suited for use as accessories that provide optical test capability for an all-electrical vector
network analyzer (VNA). This pairing enables an optical to electrical (O-E) device under test (DUT) to be accurately measured.
To support this use, each E-O converter ships with an *.s2p file characterizing its frequency response. This frequency response
can be used to de-embed the response of the O-E DUT by separating its response from the overall measurement response.
Please see Section 4.2 for more information.
These instruments can be controlled in two ways. The simplest method is directly via the built-in graphical user interface (GUI)
and touchscreen. The instrument can also be operated remotely via the RS-232 or USB ports on the back panel. Remote
control is enabled using simple SCPI-type serial commands from a PC. See the remote control user guide (RCUG), which can
be downloaded from https://www.thorlabs.com/manuals.cfm, for details.
The most recent firmware and remote control software tool can be downloaded by visiting
https://www.thorlabs.com/software_pages/viewsoftwarepage.cfm?code=MXG. Thorlabs’ technical support can provide up-to-
date information on available firmware revisions and control functions.
1.2 Parts List
Inspect the shipping container for damage. If the shipping container seems to be damaged, keep it until you have inspected the
contents and tested the unit mechanically and electrically. Verify that you have received the following items within the package:
1. E-O Converter Main Unit
2. Power Cord According to Local Power Supply
3. PM Loopback Fiber Optic Cable
4. Interlock Keys
5. 2.5 mm Interlock Pin (in Back Panel)
6. 1.25 A 250 VAC Fuse
7. USB Type A to Type B Cable, 6' Long
8.
USB Storage Device with *.s2p File Characterizing Instrument