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How to use a remotely usable optical power meter

Fibre interconnection and data room reference Published 21 Feb 2026

Use this reference to prepare product questions for FD SOLUCIONES. Check interfaces, capacity, protection and installation requirements against the current product documentation.

Optical power meters can be remotely controlled using dedicated software, USB/GPIB interfaces, or SCPI commands, depending on the device model.

Using Manufacturer Software

Many optical power meters, such as Thorlabs PM100D and similar models, support remote control via dedicated software: Thorlabs Optical Parameter Monitor (OPM): This software allows remote control and monitoring of up to eight devices simultaneously. It supports Power and Energy Meter Consoles, self-contained power meters, fiber power meters, and other compatible devices. The software provides a graphical interface and includes drivers (TLPMX.dll) for communication via USB or network interfaces.

Legacy Software for PM100D and PM160 series: Thorlabs also provides legacy software packages, including the Optical Power Meter Utility (single device), Multi Power Meter Utility (up to 8 devices), and Power Meter Monitor (Bluetooth-enabled remote control). These packages include LabVIEW and NI-VISA drivers, programming examples, and run-time engines for integration into automated test systems.

Using USB or GPI

B InterfacesUSB Interface: Many handheld and benchtop meters can be connected to a PC via USB. Once connected, the software or programming environment (LabVIEW, C, Python) can send commands to read measurements, configure settings, or trigger data logging.

GPI

B Interface: Some meters, like the EXFO PM-1100, support GPIB control. You can write a GPIB program to send commands to the meter. When the device is in remote mode, a "Remote" indicator appears on the display, and local controls are disabled.

Using SCPI Commands

Devices such as the Yokogawa AQ6150/AQ6151 support SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments). Remote control can be achieved via GP-IB or network interfaces. Commands include enabling remote mode (REN), local lockout (LLO), and reading or setting measurement parameters.

The REMOTE LE

D indicates active remote control, and local controls are disabled until remote mode is cleared.

Steps for Remote Control

Install the appropriate software for your meter model (OPM, legacy utilities, or SCPI-compatible drivers). Connect the meter to your PC or controller via USB, GPIB, or network interface. Switch the meter to remote mode if required (some devices automatically enter remote mode when receiving commands).

Use the software GUI or programming environment to configure measurement parameters, start data acquisition, and log results. Monitor the device remotely; some software allows multiple meters to be controlled simultaneously. Programming IntegrationLabVIEW or C: Many meters provide libraries and examples for LabVIEW or C, enabling automated measurement sequences.

Python: Using NI-VISA drivers, Python scripts can communicate with the meter over USB or GPIB, sending SCPI commands to control measurements and retrieve data. By following these methods, you can fully integrate an optical power meter into automated test setups or monitor measurements remotely without manual operation.

How to use a remotely usable optical power meter - FD SOLUCIONES OPTICAL SYSTEMS [PDF]

How to use a remotely usable optical power meter

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