The Agilent 8509B Lightwave Polarization Analyzer measures critical polarization-dependent parameters in fiber optic components and systems. It characterizes polarization state, degree of polarization (DOP), polarization-dependent loss (PDL), polarization mode dispersion (PMD) to 1 fs resolution, Jones Matrix, and Stokes Vector analysis across the 1200–1600 nm window.
Technical Specifications
Measurement Capabilities
• Polarization state of light
• Degree of Polarization (DOP): ±2% (1470–1580 nm)
• Polarization-Dependent Loss (PDL)
• Polarization Mode Dispersion (PMD): down to 1 fs resolution with compatible laser sources
• Jones Matrix and Stokes Vector analysis
• Measurement rate (average optical power): >1000 per second
Optical Performance
• Wavelength range: 1200–1600 nm
• Wavelength accuracy: ±20 nm
• Input power operating range: +10 dBm to –55 dBm
• Input average power damage level: +16 dBm
• Average power measurement linearity: ±0.06 dB / ±0.6 dB
• Average power measurement uncertainty: ±15%
• Return loss: –50 dB
• Internal path insertion loss: 8.5 dB
• Four-diode detection scheme
Internal Laser Sources
• 1310 nm Fabry-Perot: 300 mW output
• 1550 nm Fabry-Perot: 230 mW output
– Key Features
• Automatic three-state polarization generator
• Automated calibration routines for high-accuracy measurements
• Dual-box architecture: optical measurement hardware and computer control unit
• Safety Class 1 product with protective earthing ground
– Typical Applications
Development, testing, and manufacturing characterization of fiber optic components where polarization performance directly impacts device functionality and system integrity. Suitable for research laboratories and production environments.
– Compatibility & Integration
• Standard Agilent optical interface (connectors sold separately)
• Supports external single-wavelength and swept-wavelength sources
• Compatible with Agilent 8168 series tunable laser sources and Agilent 83432A temperature-tuned DFB laser for PMD measurements
• Operates on Microsoft Windows 95
