Optical Spectrum Analyzers - Rent & Buy Certified Used

In fiber optic systems, visibility is everything—and a trusted optical spectrum analyzer (OSA) gives you the insight you need to optimize performance and minimize loss. Whether you're monitoring DWDM channels, measuring OSNR, or analyzing wavelength accuracy, our industry-vetted OSA testers are designed for precision and reliability.

At Electro Rent, we offer a curated selection of used optical spectrum analyzers from leading brands—fully tested, calibrated, and ready to deliver high-performance results at a fraction of the new equipment cost. Each unit is backed by expert guidance to ensure you get the right specifications and capabilities for your project needs, with rental options also available for added flexibility—along with access to related network and fibre installation equipment.

Ideal for telecom, data centres, or advanced R&D, our OSA solutions cover a wide range of wavelengths and bandwidths to meet evolving network demands. Not sure if ownership is the best path? Many clients in Asia pair their testing needs with our test equipment rental service—giving them agile, project-based access to high-end tools without long-term overhead.

Whether you're troubleshooting complex optical links or validating system upgrades, our team ensures you have the right tools, every time.

Ready to see your optical network in sharper detail? Get in touch now and find your ideal OSA solution in Asia today.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. How do optical spectrum analysers work?
   Optical spectrum analysers function by dispersing an optical signal into its separate wavelengths. The instrument measures the intensity of the signal at each wavelength using a detector array and generates a visual representation of the spectrum of the signal.
   
   Using an OSA first involves introducing the signal through the input port such as a fibre optic cable. Inside, the device has a prism or diffraction grating which disperses the light into its separate wavelengths. The detector array measures the power of the signal at each wavelength. The analyser then displays the power level, wavelength, and sometimes also the optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR). The spectrum may be viewed as a line or bar graph and will usually be displayed in real-time.  
2. How do optical spectrum analysers differ from RF and microwave spectrum analysers?
   Optical and RF or microwave spectrum analysers have similar functions in that they measure power in wavelengths, but they measure different frequency ranges and have very different applications. 
   
   RF and microwave spectrum analysers are used in TV and radio broadcasting to detect radio frequency interference as well as in aerospace and defence and some telecommunications industries. They are used for the measurement of signals in the frequency range of several megahertz (MHz) to several gigahertz (GHz), and the exact range of frequencies will depend on the model and make of analyser.
   
   Optical spectrum analysers are used to measure signal power and noise characteristics of light waves in telecommunications and R&D such as in spectroscopy. These analysers measure signals in the range of terahertz (THz) and petahertz (PHz), although the range of frequencies will often be more limited depending on the intended application of the device.  
3. What should I consider when choosing an optical spectrum analyser? 
   One of the key considerations when choosing an OSA is the range of frequencies that the instrument covers. Depending on your application, you may require a wider or more limited range of measurement. The dynamic range (the range of optical power levels) that the analyser supports is also important to match with your test requirements. 
   
   Furthermore, it's important to select an analyser with the right resolution bandwidth for your needs; if you need to make accurate measurements of small frequency intervals, choosing an OSA with a high resolution is key.
   
   Other considerations might include the size and portability of the OSA – both benchtop and handheld spectrum analysers are available. The analyser's processing rate may be important, depending on your intended application.  
4. What is the wavelength range of an optical spectrum analyser? 
   While the wavelength range can vary between different models of OSA, a typical wide wavelength range is often around 600 nm to 1750 nm. 
5. What is resolution bandwidth (RBW) in an OSA, and why is it important?
   The resolution bandwidth defines the minimum separation between optical signals of interest that the OSA can distinguish. If you are measuring DWDM systems or trying to characterize an LN laser, an OSA with a low RBW such as 0.02 nm or better makes accurate spectral separation and measurement possible.
6. What dynamic range should I look for in an OSA?
   The dynamic range is the distance between the strongest and weakest optical signals the analyser can see simultaneously. A large dynamic range, typically greater than 60 dB, is particularly crucial for measuring signals with widely disparate powers and for assessing OSNR and ASE in systems with optical amplifiers.
7. Can optical spectrum analysers be used for DWDM or FTTx system testing?
   Yes, many OSA's have features tailored to DWDM, CWDM, or FTTx network measurements. Such models usually accommodate ITU channel grids, OSNR measurements, and wavelength accuracy to enable channel spacing checking. Other analysis tools provide preset templates or compliance test pass/fail criteria as well.
8. Can OSAs measure laser characteristics like spectral width or side-mode suppression ratio (SMSR)?
   Absolutely. In R&D and laser manufacture the optical spectrum analyser is common for testing parameters like spectral width, peak wavelength and side mode suppression ratio (SMSR). These tests contribute to laser stability, cleanliness and performance in optical assemblies and systems.
9. Do OSAs include automation software or remote access for data logging?
   Newer models of OSAs provide USB, LAN, or GPIB connections that support remote control as well as automated testing (with SCPI commands or using software such as LabVIEW or Python). It is particularly handy in production or extended tests where we want automated trace logging and analysis.
10. Are handheld or portable OSAs available for field use?
    Yes. Standard OSAs are bench-top designs for lab use, but vendors have brought these into the field with a number of battery-powered, self-contained OSAs available from multiple manufacturers today. The compact form factor is perfect for mobile applications such as metro, access, or data center networks.
11. What are the benefits of buying a pre-owned OSA? 
    Buying a certified pre-owned optical spectrum analyser allows you to access high quality fully calibrated test equipment at a fraction of the normal price. Our independent experts carefully select and evaluate used optical spectrum analysers in a 23-step certification process to ensure their accuracy and reliability. This means you can save on your budget while still being able to use premium-quality devices from leading brands for all your test and measurement needs. 
12. Why rent an optical spectrum analyser? 
    Renting an OSA means no more delays or downtime with your equipment -- you get quick and easy access to the latest technology for as long as you need. Our flexible rental policy means no ownership costs with your short or long-term equipment rental, allowing you to use best-in-class equipment while managing your budget. If you decide to rent an OSA, select your model and get a quote today to enjoy quick and easy delivery.