TUNABLE LASER

摘要

The present invention provides an optical multimeter (100) for use in calibrating and testing optical components. The optical multimeter (100) includes an analog/digital signal generator (250) for delivering an output beam (260) over a wide range of frequencies, duty cycles and amplitudes. Circuitry is also provided for modulation (222) of an analog signal onto the output. The signal generator (250) includes a tunable laser that is thermally stabilized as to optical path length, as well as tuning angle of the tuning element. The tunable laser exhibits a small form factor due in part to a novel wavelength control process which utilizes an open loop system to maintain precise output wavelength (260) control without the requirement of either a wavelength or position feedback device. Additionally, the tunable laser incorporates an inexpensive modulator circuit (222) which combines a low frequency closed loop power control with a separate digital modulator.