Tuesday, 1 September 2026

Wideband linear amplifier.

Helping engineers accelerate next-generation optical device characterisation.

The AH15203A/B, a 140 Gbaud wideband linear amplifier with integrated bias tee has been launched by Anritsu. Designed for engineers developing next-generation optical transmission devices, the new amplifier helps simplify high-speed device characterization by delivering the broadband, high-output signal conditioning required for the Beyond-1 Tb era.

With a broad frequency response from 200 kHz to 125 GHz (-6 dB bandwidth), the AH15203A/B amplifies PAM4 signals up to 140 Gbaud with a maximum output of 2.0 Vpp. Its +15.0 dB gain and low jitter performance of 300 fs maximum help engineers maintain signal fidelity, compensate for transmission-path losses, and perform more reliable waveform evaluation during high-speed optical device development.

The AH15203A/B can amplify 140 Gbaud PAM4 signals from DSPs and other signal sources, while directly driving optical devices that require high-amplitude offset signals, such as modulators. This makes it well suited for characterizing optical modulators used in next-generation 800GbE and 1.6TbE digital coherent transmission systems, as well as IM-DD optical modulators widely deployed in optical communications. For engineers, this provides a practical way to validate demanding device performance with greater confidence and efficiency.

By combining wide bandwidth, high output, low jitter, and an integrated bias tee in a compact drive amplifier, Anritsu helps customers reduce test complexity, improve confidence in measurement results, and accelerate the deployment of faster, more reliable data centre and network infrastructure.

Development background.
Growth in AI, machine-learning, and cloud-service traffic is pushing data centre and network operators to increase capacity while maintaining signal quality, energy efficiency, and operational reliability.

To support these requirements, IEEE 802.3dj is advancing standardization for 200 Gbps/lane IM-DD modulation and digital coherent configurations including 800GBASE-LR1 (10 km), 800GBASE-ER1-20 (20 km), and 800GBASE-ER1 (40 km). In parallel, IEEE 802.3ds standardization is progressing toward optical links operating at 200 Gbps per wavelength for short-reach communications below 30 m. As speeds increase, signal attenuation becomes more challenging, creating a clear need for high-output linear drivers with integrated bias tee that can faithfully amplify PAM signals and directly drive EML, DML, and VCSEL devices during development and validation.

Product outline.
The AH15203A/B high-output linear amplifier supports 140 Gbaud PAM4 signal evaluation at up to 2.0 Vpp. With a 125 GHz bandwidth and integrated bias tee, it enables engineers to generate high-quality, high-speed drive signals without increasing setup complexity. Its low power consumption of 1.5 W also supports more efficient test environments, helping customers manage performance, space, and power considerations in advanced optical device characterization.

A dedicated power supply further helps reduce the risk of incorrect power handling, contributing to safer operation and greater confidence when integrating the amplifier into high-frequency test setups. 

 Markets include: High-speed optical and electrical device manufacturers; optical signal test and measurement-instrument manufacturers and applications: High-speed optical device characterization at up to 140 Gbaud


@Anritsu @AnritsuEMEA @NapierPR   #TandM #Optical

Support from afar!

New digitally enabled support experience helps manufacturers address skills gaps, simplify updates and resolve issues faster.

The launch of Rockwell Automation's TechConnectIQ℠ Support has been announced. This is a modernised remote support experience designed to help manufacturers reduce downtime, speed time to resolution and simplify software and firmware updates.

As manufacturing environments become more complex and on-site experts harder to staff, Rockwell TechConnectIQ makes it easier for maintenance, engineering and operations teams to get the help they need when issues arise. The new experience provides faster access to Rockwell's technical expertise and digital resources, helping teams stay productive and respond more effectively to challenges.

TechConnectIQ Support is available now for single-site contract customers in North America, with additional regions planned for 2027. Available 24x7x365, Rockwell's technical support engineers assist with installation, configuration, troubleshooting and issue resolution across industrial automation systems. The service also reduces the need for on-site field visits and helps teams work more efficiently through improved access to knowledge and updates.

"Manufacturers are being asked to do more with fewer resources and support needs to keep pace," said Matt Fordenwalt, senior vice president, Lifecycle Services, at Rockwell Automation. "TechConnectIQ brings together our expertise and AI capabilities to help customers stay productive when on-site resources are limited."

Key benefits of this new offering include:

  • Real-time access to specialists through web-based tools with scheduled callbacks and live support
  • Improved data visibility via the myRockwellAutomation TechConnect hub, including installed base and support history
  • Simplified support structure with consolidated hardware and software coverage and three support tiers: Basic, Standard and Professional
  • AI-support tools including federated search, augmented reality guidance and instructional videos to assist with maintenance and remote support tasks

"For more than 20 years, customers have relied on Rockwell's TechConnect service to keep their operations running," said Bill Prather, lead product manager for production optimisation at Rockwell Automation. "TechConnectIQ builds on that trusted foundation and reflects what customers told us they need today. We modernised the experience while maintaining the reliability they expect from Rockwell."


@ROKAutomation @ROKAutoEMEA #PAuto