Streamlining Signal Cascading and Test Automation

Optical Flexicade Switch

FlexiCade switches are ideal for test automation and R&D, enabling the cascading of CDEs, EDFAs, or Mux/Demux units to test dispersion variations, amplify signals, improve signal integrity, and optimize optical signal routing in Long-haul, Metro, and FTTx networks. Cascading CDEs allows you to emulate the cumulative dispersion effects proportional to the length of the fiber in long-haul networks. FlexiCade also helps reduce capital costs by enabling fixed CDEs to test various combinations. For instance, four 5 ms CDE units can be cascaded to achieve up to 20 ms of dispersion, simulating a 1,000 km fiber distance.

The FLX8-SM model supports cascading up to 8 devices (4 devices per direction). Designed with user convenience in mind, FlexiCade features a user-friendly web interface for easy configuration and monitoring. With support for REST APIs, it seamlessly integrates into modern automated networks, allowing for efficient automation and remote control.

Applications

In labs and manufacturing environments, cascading CDEs enables testing varying dispersion levels to study their impact while cascading EDFAs simulates real-world signal propagation. Engineers rely on these setups to evaluate how network equipment performs under different signal conditions, especially across long-haul links.

Typical Setup

Typical Cascade Switch Setup

Key Features

  • Compact Form Factor: upto 8 devices support in 1RU/5" deep enclosure
  • All new models come with connectors featuring internal shutters, which eliminate the need for dust caps.
  • Ultra-Fast Response: MEMS VOA chips ensure a response time under 5 ms.
  • Protocol and Speed Agnostic: Compatible with Ethernet, Fibre Channel, OTN, InfiniBand and more at any speed (1G–100G+).
  • Bi-Directional: Supports optical signals in both directions.
  • Telcordia Compliance: Meets the highest reliability standards (Telcordia 1209 and 1221).
  • Remote Management: Web-based interface over HTTPS and CLI via SSH.
  • Automation Support: Integrate with REST APIs or legacy CLI-based tools.

Available Models

The FLX8-SM supports cascading of up to 8 devices. While we offer a single standard model, custom configurations are available upon request. Contact us using the button below.

OAX8-SM Cascade Switch
FLX8-SM

8 Devices Single-mode Cascading Optical Switch

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FLX8-SM Specifications

PARAMETER TYPICAL VALUE
Wavelength 1280-1625 nm
Insertion Loss (average per port) ≤ 1.2 dB
Switching Time ≤ 5ms
Operating Temperature Range -5 ~ 70 °C
Relative Humidity Range 5 ~ 85 % RH
Durability > 10 Million Cycles
Form Factor 1RU, 5 inch deep
Power Supply 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz
Power Consumption < 7 Watts
Display 1 inch OLED
Optical Interface 10x Duplex Single-mode LC connectors
Network Interface 1x Fast Ethernet (RJ45) connector
Peripheral Interface 1x USB for WiFi Dongle or external Flash
Console/Debug Interface 1x USB micro connector serial interface (Baud 115200)