JDSU mLCS-A1204B Dual Independent 1x4 MAP Optical Switch Module with Bulkheads

JDSU mLCS-A1204B Dual Independent 1x4 MAP Optical Switch Module

The JDSU mLCS-A1204B is a modular optical switch designed for the JDSU MAP-200 Multiple Application Platform. It combines two independent 1x4 optical switches in one compact cassette, providing two separately controlled routing systems for fiber optic laboratories, automated manufacturing systems, telecommunications testing, and photonics research.

Each internal switch provides one common optical port and four selectable channels. The first common port connects to one of four channels in the first switch bank, while the second common port operates independently across a separate bank of four channels. This architecture allows two optical routing tasks to be controlled from one MAP module.

The B suffix identifies a bulkhead configuration. Fiber type and connector interfaces are defined by separate option codes that are not included in the base mLCS-A1204B model number. Available family options include 9/125 µm single-mode, 50/125 µm multimode, and 62.5/125 µm multimode fiber with compatible FC or SC connector interfaces.

The mLCS-A1 platform uses JDSU expanded-beam and optical alignment technologies to deliver low insertion loss, high return loss, stable transmission, and repeatable channel selection. The module requires a compatible MAP-200 chassis for operating power, module recognition, channel control, status reporting, and automated test-system integration.

Features and Benefits of the JDSU mLCS-A1204B

• Dual independent 1x4 architecture: Contains two separately controlled optical switches, each with one common port and four selectable channels.
• Two independent routing banks: Provides eight selectable channels arranged as two individual banks of four.
• Bulkhead optical interfaces: Allows compatible patch cords to connect directly to the module without permanent pigtails.
• Expanded-beam switching technology: Uses precision optical alignment to support low path loss and consistent channel selection.
• Fast switching: Provides a first-channel switching time of 25 ms and 15 ms for each additional channel traversed.
• High switching repeatability: Supports consistent optical routing during automated production and qualification workflows.
• Long operating life: Rated for more than 100 million switching cycles.
• High optical input capacity: Supports optical input power up to 300 mW under the documented conditions.
• Flexible fiber options: Supports single-mode and multimode configurations for different optical test applications.
• Multiple connector choices: Available with compatible FC/PC, FC/APC, SC/PC, or SC/APC interfaces.
• MAP-200 integration: Operates with compatible MAP-200 chassis controllers and automation interfaces.
• Reduced connector handling: Limits repetitive manual reconnection of optical sources, instruments, and devices under test.

Dual Independent 1x4 Switching

The mLCS-A1204B contains two complete 1x4 optical switch sections. Each section has one common optical port and four selectable channels. The two sections are controlled independently, so changing the selected channel on one switch does not require the other switch to move.

One switch can route an optical source among four devices under test while the second switch selects among four receivers, detectors, or measurement paths. The two switches can also support separate production fixtures, component groups, reference paths, or independent test stations.

This configuration should be understood as two independent 1x4 switches, not as a fully non-blocking 2x4 matrix. Each common port remains associated with its own four-channel bank and does not automatically have access to the channels assigned to the other switch.

1x4 Optical Path Selection

Each 1x4 switch establishes one optical connection at a time. The internal mechanism aligns the common port with the selected channel and disconnects the previously selected path.

The module does not divide optical power among all four channels simultaneously. It functions as an optical routing device rather than an optical splitter.

This one-to-many architecture allows a source or measurement instrument to remain connected while the MAP-200 controller selects the required path. Automated path selection can increase test throughput and reduce measurement variation associated with repeated connector mating and cable movement.

Expanded-Beam Optical Alignment

The mLCS-A1 platform uses expanded-beam and precision alignment technologies developed for modular optical switching. The internal mechanism establishes a controlled optical connection between each common port and its selected channel.

This design supports low insertion loss and repeatable switching without requiring external patch cords to be moved for every test. It also reduces wear on external connectors during repetitive production and laboratory measurements.

The module is passive within the selected optical path. It does not generate, amplify, detect, regenerate, modulate, or convert the transmitted signal.

Bulkhead Optical Connections

The mLCS-A1204B uses optical bulkheads rather than attached pigtails. Bulkheads provide removable optical interfaces directly at the module faceplate and allow patch cords to be selected according to the installed fiber and connector options.

The exact connector type cannot be determined from the base mLCS-A1204B model alone. The complete module label should include a separate connector option such as MFP, MFA, MSC, or MSU.

The connector family and ferrule polish must be confirmed before patch cords are attached. APC connectors should not be directly intermated with non-angled physical-contact connectors because their ferrule geometries are incompatible.

Available Fiber Configurations

The mLCS-A1204B requires a separate fiber option. The installed fiber determines the applicable wavelength range and optical specifications.

• M100: 9/125 µm single-mode fiber.
• M101: 50/125 µm multimode fiber.
• M102: 62.5/125 µm multimode fiber.

Connected sources, patch cords, detectors, receivers, and devices under test should match the installed fiber. Mixing incompatible single-mode and multimode components can change optical coupling and produce measurements that do not represent the intended system.

Available Connector Configurations

The connector option is selected separately from the mLCS-A1204B base configuration.

• MFP: FC/PC connectors.
• MFA: FC/APC connectors for the M100 single-mode fiber option.
• MSC: SC/PC connectors.
• MSU: SC/APC connectors for the M100 single-mode fiber option.

The complete option label and physical interfaces should be inspected before the module is connected to external optical equipment.

Single-Mode Optical Performance

When configured with M100 9/125 µm single-mode fiber, the mLCS-A1204B operates from 1270 nm to 1670 nm. This range supports common optical test and telecommunications wavelengths near 1310 nm, 1490 nm, 1550 nm, and 1625 nm.

Each 1x4 switch falls within the documented performance category for configurations with 25 or fewer output channels. Typical internal insertion loss is 0.5 dB, with a documented maximum of 0.7 dB, excluding connectors.

Typical return loss is 62 dB, with a documented minimum of 57 dB. Typical polarization-dependent loss is 0.02 dB, with a documented maximum of 0.04 dB.

These specifications apply only when the module is equipped with the M100 single-mode option. External connectors, patch cords, adapters, source stability, wavelength, polarization, and connected devices can affect complete system performance.

Multimode Optical Performance

When configured with M101 50/125 µm or M102 62.5/125 µm multimode fiber, the mLCS-A1 platform supports wavelength ranges from 850 nm to 1350 nm and from 750 nm to 940 nm, depending on the selected configuration.

For a multimode 1x4 switch, typical internal insertion loss is 0.4 dB and maximum insertion loss is 0.6 dB, excluding connectors.

Typical multimode return loss is 25 dB, with a documented minimum of 20 dB. Polarization-dependent loss is not specified for multimode configurations.

Multimode performance values should only be applied after the installed M101 or M102 fiber option has been confirmed.

Switching Repeatability and Stability

For configurations with 25 or fewer channels, typical sequential switching repeatability is ±0.005 dB, with a documented maximum of ±0.01 dB.

Typical random switching repeatability is ±0.01 dB, with a documented maximum of ±0.05 dB. Random switching represents movement between channels that are not necessarily adjacent.

Typical insertion-loss stability is ±0.02 dB, with a documented maximum of ±0.025 dB. The optical specifications exclude connectors and apply after the module has stabilized for one hour.

Observed system repeatability also depends on source stability, detector noise, connector cleanliness, patch-cord movement, wavelength, polarization, and environmental conditions.

Switching Speed and Operating Life

The documented first-channel switching time is 25 ms. Each additional channel traversed requires approximately 15 ms. Total switching time depends on the current and requested positions.

The mLCS-A1 platform is rated for more than 100 million switching cycles. This service life supports repetitive production testing, component qualification, long-term reliability testing, and automated laboratory measurements.

Automation software should allow adequate settling time after each channel change before accepting a reading from a connected power meter, detector, receiver, or analyzer.

Maximum Optical Input Power

Maximum optical input power is specified at 300 mW. The output of connected lasers, amplified spontaneous emission sources, and optical amplifiers should be measured before connection when the optical level is unknown.

The 300 mW rating applies to the switch and does not establish the safe input level of downstream equipment. Every receiver, detector, optical power meter, spectrum analyzer, and device under test must remain within its own optical input limits.

Compatible optical attenuation should be used whenever the source could exceed the safe operating range of the switch or connected equipment.

MAP-200 Platform Integration

The mLCS-A1204B is optimized for use in the JDSU MAP-200 Multiple Application Platform. The host chassis provides electrical power, module communication, channel control, status information, Ethernet connectivity, and access to supported automation functions.

The MAP-200 architecture allows the switch to operate alongside compatible optical sources, attenuators, power meters, return-loss modules, and other photonic-layer instruments.

The mLCS-A1204B cannot operate as a standalone optical switch. Chassis model, controller configuration, firmware compatibility, available slot capacity, and module recognition should be verified before installation.

DWDM Channel Testing

The dual 1x4 configuration can route tunable or fixed-wavelength sources among multiple DWDM components, channels, or optical paths. The second independent switch can manage measurement outputs, reference paths, or another group of devices.

This arrangement supports automated testing of filters, multiplexers, demultiplexers, wavelength-selective switches, attenuators, couplers, and other multi-port optical components.

The selected source wavelength and patch cords must be compatible with the fiber option installed in the module.

Optical Amplifier Characterization

The mLCS-A1204B can route optical signals among amplifier inputs, outputs, monitoring ports, or multiple amplifier units. One switch section can control the input side of a test arrangement while the second manages an output or reference path.

Potential measurements include input power, output power, gain, wavelength response, saturation behavior, and long-term stability. Additional sources, attenuators, couplers, isolators, power meters, and spectrum analyzers may be required.

Bit Error Rate Testing

The dual-switch module can be incorporated into bit error rate test systems requiring automated selection among optical transmitters, receivers, transceivers, line cards, or fiber paths.

The passive switch operates independently of data rate and transmission format. It establishes the selected optical path without interpreting, modifying, or regenerating the signal.

The insertion loss and switching time of each path should be considered when configuring receiver power and automated BER procedures.

Typical Applications

• DWDM channel testing
• Optical amplifier characterization
• Bit error rate testing
• Dual-bank optical signal routing
• Automated fiber optic component testing
• Optical source distribution
• Detector and power meter selection
• Insertion-loss measurement automation
• Optical transmitter and receiver testing
• Production screening and quality assurance
• Long-term reliability testing
• Photonics research and development

Product Overview

Brand	JDSU
Model	mLCS-A1204B
Product Family	MAP Large Channel Count Switch
Product Category	Modular Programmable Optical Switch
Switch Configuration	Dual independent 1x4
Common Optical Ports	Two, one per independent switch
Selectable Channels	Two banks of four channels
Total Output Channels	Eight
Optical Interface	Bulkheads
Fiber Type	Determined by the installed option
Connector Type	Determined by the installed option
Compatible Platform	JDSU MAP-200
Primary Application	Independent dual-bank optical routing for automated test systems

 

Model Configuration

Part Number Element	Configuration
mLCS-A1	MAP Large Channel Count Switch family
204	Dual independent 1x4 optical switch configuration
B	Bulkhead optical connections
Required Fiber Option	M100, M101, or M102
Required Connector Option	MFP, MFA, MSC, or MSU, subject to fiber compatibility

 

Available Fiber and Connector Options

Option Code	Description
M100	9/125 µm single-mode fiber
M101	50/125 µm multimode fiber
M102	62.5/125 µm multimode fiber
MFP	FC/PC connector type
MFA	FC/APC connector type for the M100 single-mode option
MSC	SC/PC connector type
MSU	SC/APC connector type for the M100 single-mode option

 

General Specifications

Specification	Details
First-Channel Switching Time	25 ms
Each Additional Channel	15 ms
Maximum Optical Input Power	300 mW
Switching Lifetime	More than 100 million cycles
Operating Temperature	-5 °C to 55 °C
Storage Temperature	-30 °C to 60 °C
Optical Stabilization Before Measurement	One hour

 

Physical Specifications

Specification	Details
Width	4.06 cm or 1.6 in
Height	13.26 cm or 5.22 in
Depth	37.03 cm or 14.58 in
Maximum Weight	Approximately 1.3 kg or 2.87 lb, depending on configuration

 

Configuration Verification

The mLCS-A1204B base model confirms two independent 1x4 switches with bulkhead connections. It does not independently identify the installed fiber or connector option.

The complete module label should be reviewed for an M100, M101, or M102 fiber code and an MFP, MFA, MSC, or MSU connector code. The physical connector family and ferrule polish should also be verified before patch cords are selected.

The listing should not assign single-mode, multimode, FC, SC, PC, or APC specifications unless the corresponding option code or physical interface has been confirmed.

Optical Path Mapping

Both common ports and all eight selectable channels should be identified before the module is integrated into an automated test system. Every bulkhead should be mapped to the corresponding switch section and channel number.

A compatible optical source can be connected to the common port of the first switch while a calibrated optical power meter monitors the four outputs as each channel is selected. The procedure should then be repeated for the second independent switch.

The completed path map should be retained for cable labeling, automation software, troubleshooting, performance testing, and future maintenance.

Installation and Connector Care

The mLCS-A1204B should be installed in a compatible MAP-200 chassis using the correct guides and retaining hardware. The chassis controller and firmware should recognize the module before optical testing begins.

Every optical bulkhead and mating patch cord should be inspected before connection. Contaminated end faces should be cleaned using an approved fiber optic procedure and reinspected before mating.

Protective caps should remain installed whenever ports are not in use. External patch cords should be routed with a suitable bend radius and protected from pulling, twisting, crushing, and abrasion.

Comprehensive Functional and Performance Testing

The JDSU mLCS-A1204B receives comprehensive functional and performance testing before shipment. Evaluation may include installation in a compatible MAP-200 chassis, module recognition, controller communication, independent operation of both 1x4 switch sections, status reporting, and channel selection across both four-channel banks.

Optical testing may include identification of both common ports, complete path mapping, continuity through every selectable channel, comparative insertion-loss measurements, repeated switching, crosstalk evaluation, and operation at representative wavelengths appropriate for the installed fiber.

The module-to-chassis connector, faceplate, retaining hardware, optical bulkheads, connector adapters, protective caps, channel labels, enclosure, and identification markings may be inspected for contamination, damage, excessive wear, or mechanical problems.

The exact testing scope depends on the installed fiber and connector options, available MAP-200 chassis, firmware compatibility, optical source wavelengths, calibrated power meters, return-loss equipment, polarization measurement equipment, and requested channel coverage.

Calibration Before Shipment

When technically applicable and selected, the JDSU mLCS-A1204B can be calibrated or performance-verified before shipment. Evaluation may include optical path mapping, insertion loss, return loss, polarization-dependent loss for a supported single-mode configuration, switching repeatability, crosstalk, switching time, and insertion-loss stability.

Calibration documentation should identify the module model and serial number, host MAP-200 chassis, firmware, installed fiber, connector type, switch section, common port, output channel, source wavelength, source power, reference cables, recorded measurements, and applicable measurement uncertainty.

Buyers requiring formal calibration should specify the fiber configuration, connector interfaces, wavelengths, optical parameters, channel coverage, certificate format, recorded results, and required measurement uncertainty before purchase.

Buyer Considerations

Buyers should confirm the complete module part number, including the required fiber and connector option codes. The mLCS-A1204B base code confirms the dual independent 1x4 architecture and bulkhead termination but does not define the optical fiber or connector interface.

The module requires a compatible MAP-200 chassis and cannot operate as a standalone optical switch. Chassis model, controller configuration, firmware version, available slot capacity, and module recognition should be verified.

The listing should identify whether the module includes protective caps, optical patch cords, connector adapters, a MAP-200 chassis, controller, communication cables, software, manuals, test records, calibration records, or other accessories.

Only the optical switch module and accessories specifically identified in the product listing should be considered included.

Why Buy from AssetRelay?

AssetRelay supplies professional equipment and product solutions for fiber optic, telecom, laboratory, production, optical testing, photonics, electronic testing, RF/microwave, inspection, cleaning, and technical research applications. The JDSU mLCS-A1204B provides compact dual 1x4 optical routing for component manufacturers, telecommunications laboratories, production facilities, amplifier developers, system integrators, universities, and research organizations.

Buyers should review the complete module label, fiber and connector options, bulkhead condition, operation of both 1x4 switch sections, optical path mapping, MAP-200 compatibility, calibration status, functional test results, and included accessories before purchase.