The Agilent 8163A Mainframe meter is a modular optical test platform that accepts up to two plug-in modules to configure measurement capability for component and system evaluation. Its interchangeable module architecture supports power meters, laser sources, attenuators, return loss modules, and optical heads—enabling flexible deployment across diverse optical characterization workflows. The instrument combines a monochrome graphical display with synchronized triggering across all channels, SCPI command compatibility, and dual communication interfaces for laboratory and remote automation environments.
Technical Specifications
Module Architecture
• Two plug-in module slots
• Full compatibility with 8153A and 8163A Lightwave Multimeter series modules
• Supported module types: DFB, Fabry-Perot, Attenuators, Tunable Laser Sources, Optical Power Meters, Single and Dual Power Sensors, Fast Power Sensor modules, Optical Head Interface modules, Return Loss modules
Measurement Capability
• Monochrome graphical display: 190 × 300 pixels
• Display resolution: 0.0001 dB/dBm; 0.01 pW to 10 pW; up to 6½ digits user-definable
• Data storage: 4000 results per channel (12000 in remote mode)
• Selectable acquisition time: 1 second to 23 hours 59 minutes
• Selectable averaging time (module-dependent)
• Synchronous triggering across all channels
• SCPI command protocol support
Electrical & Interface
• Power input: 100 to 240 V AC ±10%, 50/60 Hz ±5%
• Maximum consumption: 120 VA
• GPIB for primary control and parameter access
• Centronics parallel port and RS-232 serial port
Physical & Environmental
• Dimensions: 88 mm H × 213 mm W × 380 mm L (3.5 × 8.4 × 15 inches)
• Net weight: 4.200 kg (9.3 lbs); Shipping: 6.5 kg (14.5 lbs)
• Operating temperature: 0 to +45°C
• Storage temperature: −40 to +70°C
• Relative humidity: <95% RH (0 to 45°C)
• Maximum altitude: 2000 m
• Pollution degree 2
– Key Features
• True synchronous triggering across all measurement channels
• High-resolution display with up to 6½ digit user-configurable readout
• Extended data logging: 4000–12000 measurement records per channel
• Flexible acquisition windows from 1 second to nearly 24 hours
• Low power footprint at 120 VA maximum
• Compact benchtop form factor
– Typical Applications
• Optical component characterization and validation
• Wavelength and power measurement in fiber-optic systems
• Return loss and attenuation analysis
• Tunable laser source evaluation
• Multi-channel synchronized optical measurements
– Compatibility & Integration
The 8163A accepts any module from the 8153A and 8163A series, enabling rapid reconfiguration for new measurement needs. GPIB control ensures integration into automated test sequences and network-based laboratory environments. Legacy parallel and serial interfaces support direct peripheral connection.
