The Agilent/HP 86122A is a precision multi-wavelength meter for accurate laser wavelength measurement across the 1270 nm to 1650 nm spectral band. Built for tunable laser characterization and DWDM system validation, this instrument delivers continuous real-time signal analysis with internal HeNe calibration for absolute wavelength traceability. It supports measurement modes including wavelength tables, power tables, and simultaneous wavelength/power capture, with data logging and sorting by any parameter. The 86122A operates in Normal Update Mode (1.0 s cycle time, up to 100 lines) or Fast Update Mode (0.5 s cycle time, up to 200 lines), with maximum capacity of 1000 lines. Integrated applications include drift monitoring, OSNR analysis, and Fabry-Perot laser characterization. Options 021 and 022 specify optical connector type: Option 021 is straight (non-angled) PC (UPC) contact interface; Option 022 is angled APC contact interface. The 400 option provides front-panel fiber input.
Technical Specifications
Wavelength Measurement
• Range: 1270 nm to 1650 nm
• Absolute accuracy (Option 002): ±0.2 ppm (±0.3 pm at 1550 nm)
• Differential accuracy (Option 002): ±0.25 ppm
• Display resolution: 0.0001 nm
• Minimum resolvable separation at 1550 nm: ≥30 GHz (0.16 nm), ≥15 GHz (0.08 nm), ≥10 GHz (0.04 nm)
• Minimum resolvable separation at 1310 nm: ≥20 GHz (0.11 nm), ≥10 GHz (0.06 nm), ≥5 GHz (0.03 nm)
• Laser linewidth assumption: 35 dB
– Key Features
• Internal HeNe laser calibration for high absolute wavelength accuracy
• Multiple measurement modes: list by wavelength, list by power, signal wavelength/power, average wavelength/total power
• Drift, OSNR, and FP laser characterization applications built-in
• PC interface compatibility for automated test integration
– Typical Applications
• Tunable laser testing and optimization
• DWDM system validation and channel verification
• Research and manufacturing environments requiring continuous wavelength monitoring
– Compatibility & Integration
Options 021/022 define optical connector geometry and interface type. Option 400 specifies front-panel fiber input configuration.
