The Agilent Keysight 8158A is a programmable optical attenuator delivering precise control of optical power across single-mode and multimode fiber systems. It provides 60 dB of attenuation range with 0.01 dB resolution and ±0.04 dB repeatability, enabling accurate characterization of optical components, amplifiers, and high-speed transmission systems. The instrument supports wavelength-corrected attenuation through user-selectable options, ensuring measurement accuracy across infrared and visible wavelengths. Its high return loss and polarization-insensitive design make it ideal for demanding applications including bit error rate testing on fast optical systems.
Technical Specifications
• Attenuation Range: 60 dB
• Resolution: 0.01 dB
• Repeatability: Typically ±0.04 dB
• Fiber Compatibility: Single-mode and multimode optical fibers (NA up to 0.3 for multimode)
• Wavelength Correction Options:
– Option 001: 600 nm to 1200 nm
– Option 002: 1200 nm to 1650 nm
• Return Loss: Very high (specified for bit error rate test applications)
• Polarization Sensitivity: Insensitive to polarization state
• Control Interface: HP-IB/GPIB for remote automation; manual control available
– Key Features
• High accuracy and linearity across the full attenuation range
• Integrated shutter option for power meter zeroing and channel drop simulation
• Built-in calibration capabilities with reference power setting and relative measurement display
• Wavelength correction memory for matching attenuator response to source wavelength
– Typical Applications
• Optical amplifier testing (EDFA, Raman amplifier characterization)
• DWDM transmission system testing and multi-wavelength applications
• Bit error rate (BER) testing on high-speed optical systems
• Optical component and system characterization
• Optical power level control in telecommunication and data communication test setups
– Compatibility & Integration
Programs via HP-IB (GPIB) interface for system integration and automated test sequences. Compatible with standard optical fiber connectors appropriate to deployment configuration.
