The Agilent/Keysight 8156A-121 is a high-performance optical attenuator module for precise control of optical power levels in fiber optic systems. It delivers 60 dB attenuation range with 0.001 dB resolution across 1200–1650 nm, supporting both single-mode and multimode fiber applications in R&D and production environments.
Technical Specifications
• Wavelength Range: 1200 nm to 1650 nm
• Attenuation Range: 60 dB (excluding insertion loss)
• Attenuation Resolution: 0.001 dB
• Attenuation Accuracy (Linearity): Typical < ±0.1 dB
• Repeatability: Typical 45 dB
• Insertion Loss: Typical 3.3 dB (excluding connectors)
• Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL): Typical < 0.1 dBpp
• Polarization Mode Dispersion (PMD): 6 fs
• Monitor Output: 13 dB tap (1:20 ratio)
• Power Requirements: 100/120/220/240 Vrms (±10%), 45–400 Hz, 90 VA max
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 55°C
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to 80°C
• Dimensions: 9 mm H × 212.3 mm W × 345 mm D
• Weight: 5.3 kg net; 9.6 kg shipping
– Key Features
• Single-filter design eliminates dark spots and attenuation overshoots/undershoots
• Fiber type compatibility: Single-mode (9/125 µm) and 50 µm multimode
• Built-in monitor output for comprehensive testing and validation
• Straight optical contact (PC) connectors
• Battery backup for non-volatile memory (10-year data retention)
• GPIB (HP-IB) control interface for automated attenuation sweeps
– Typical Applications
• Telecommunications research and development
• Production testing of fiber optic systems
• Automatic attenuation sweep characterization
• Optical power level validation across extended wavelength ranges
– Compatibility & Integration
Designed for integration with Agilent/Keysight 8156A mainframe and related test platforms. Option 121 requires three connector interfaces; 81000xI Series optical interface connectors sold separately.
