February 2008

EEEL Researcher Receives Allen V. Astin Award

Igor Vayshenker, Calibration Leader of the EEEL Optical Fiber Power Laboratory, recently received the Allen V. Astin Award, which is given annually to recognize outstanding achievement in the advancement of measurement science. Mr. Vayshenker was recognized for his leadership in developing and providing modern standards and measurement services for optical fiber power. Optical fiber power meters are one of the most common forms of test equipment for optical fiber communication networks. For nearly two decades, Mr. Vayshenker has provided critical support to the optoelectronics and telecommunications industries through his measurement services, directly impacting every American who makes a long distance phone call or uses the Internet. In establishing the Optical Fiber Power Laboratory, Mr. Vayshenker has created a traceability chain for optical fiber power meters. This chain includes absolute measurements of optical fiber power and detector linearity. Industry experts around the world consider Mr. Vayshenker’s work crucial for their companies. Dr. Marc Breton, Chief Metrologist for EXFO, has said that Mr. Vayshenker is a “worldwide reference for fibered power measurements… (his calibrations) were essential for our company and were the basis of our metrology system.” EXFO is just one of over 60 customers of Mr. Vayshenker’s measurement services; in 2006, net sales from Mr. Vayshenker’s customers were over $12.3B. In addition to his research, Mr. Vayshenker has led several national and international comparisons of optical fiber power measurements, establishing a worldwide network for optical fiber power measurements.

For more information contact: Marla Dowell, phone 303-497-7455