The Agilent/Keysight 15413A is a polarization controller that enables deterministic manipulation of light polarization states in fiber optic systems. It transforms arbitrary input polarization into precisely defined output states without altering optical power levels, making it essential for polarization-sensitive optical measurements and communications.
The device uses an internal four-fiber-loop assembly where each loop functions as a quarter-wave retarder. Independent rotation of each loop across a 180° range provides polarization control with 1000 discrete adjustment steps (000 to 999), yielding 0.18° resolution per step. This architecture delivers extremely low insertion-loss variation—0.004 dB across the operational wavelength range—critical for power-sensitive PDL measurements.
Technical Specifications
• Wavelength range: 1250 to 1600 nm
• Adjustment range: 180° per fiber loop
• Adjustment resolution: 0.18° (1000 steps)
• Insertion loss variation: 0.004 dB
• Polarization control: Deterministic, non-power-altering
– Key Features
• Four-fiber-loop optical assembly with quarter-wave retarder behavior
• Independent loop rotation for fine polarization state tuning
• 1000-step adjustment resolution across full 180° rotation range
• Minimal insertion-loss variation maintains signal integrity
• Direct polarization state transformation without power degradation
– Typical Applications
• Polarization dependent loss (PDL) measurements
• Polarization mode dispersion (PMD) characterization
• Polarization synthesis and state generation
• Optical component testing requiring controlled input polarization
– Compatibility & Integration
The 15413A integrates into fiber optic test systems via standard fiber coupling. Its deterministic control enables repeatable polarization conditioning for laboratory measurements and production test environments.
