The Agilent 8169A Polarization Controller is a precision instrument for independent control of linear polarization, retardance, and polarization orientation in optical fiber systems. Equipped with fresh calibration, it delivers repeatable state-of-polarization (SOP) adjustment across the C and L bands with extinction ratios exceeding 30 dB across the full operating range. The instrument combines manual front-panel control, nine save/recall registers, autoscanning, and predeterministic algorithms to enable rapid SOP transitions and comprehensive polarization analysis.
Technical Specifications
• Operating Wavelength Range: 1400 nm to 1640 nm
• Polarization Adjustment Resolution: 0.18°
• Polarization Extinction Ratio: >30 dB (1400–1640 nm), >40 dB (1470–1570 nm), >45 dB (1530–1560 nm)
• Insertion Loss: 60 dB individual reflections, >55 dB total reflection
• Maximum Input Power: +23 dBm
• Poincaré Sphere Accuracy: ±0.09°
• Poincaré Sphere Wavelength Dependence: ±0.1°/nm
• Power Requirements: 100/120/220/240 V rms, 48–60 Hz
• Dimensions: 10 cm H × 42.6 cm W × 44.5 cm D
• Weight: 9 kg (20 lbs)
– Key Features
• Independent linear polarizer, quarter-wave plate, and half-wave plate for complete SOP control
• Nine configurable save/recall registers for rapid state hopping between user-defined polarization conditions
• Autoscanning mode continuously sweeps all polarization states on the Poincaré sphere
• Predeterministic algorithms specify deterministic transition paths between arbitrary SOP points
• GPIB remote control (IEEE 488.1 and 488.2) for automated measurement sequences
– Typical Applications
• Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL) and Polarization Mode Dispersion (PMD) characterization
• Polarization synthesis and arbitrary SOP generation
• Mueller Matrix analysis and swept-wavelength optical measurements
• Research and manufacturing environments requiring precise polarization control
– Compatibility & Integration
Fiber interface options include spliced pigtail configuration (standard), straight contact connectors (Option 021), angled contact connectors (Option 022), or pigtailed fiber ports without factory connectors (Option 020). Option 500 provides unpolarized configuration upon special request.
