The Agilent/Keysight 8166B Lightwave Multichannel System Mainframe is an expandable optical test platform that simultaneously hosts up to 17 slim modules from the 816xxx series. This mainframe enables multichannel measurements across power meters, tunable lasers, and fixed laser sources in a single instrument. Engineers configure custom module combinations to match specific test requirements. The 8166B supports both benchtop and rack-mount deployment with a compact 426 mm × 545 mm footprint.
Technical Specifications
Module Capacity
• Accommodates up to 17 slim modules from the 816xxx series
• Supports any compatible combination
Display & Output
• Graphical active color display: 300 × 240 pixels, 4 updates per second
• Power meter resolution: 0.0001 dB/dBm; 0.01 pW to 10 pW (range dependent), up to 6.5 digits user-definable
• VGA connector for external monitor
Triggering & Synchronization
• True synchronous triggering on all channels
• Maximum trigger frequency: 100 kHz
• External digital modulation: 1 MHz at 50% duty cycle
Interfaces
• GPIB: SCPI-compliant, 300 kB/sec burst rate, function codes SH1, AH1, T6, L4, SR0, RL1, PP0, DC1, DT0, C0
• 10/100BASE-T Ethernet
• RS232: 115200 bps maximum
• Centronics parallel printer
Electrical & Environmental
• Power: AC 100 to 240 V ±10%, 50/60 Hz; 450 VA maximum consumption
• Operating temperature: 0 °C to +45 °C
• Storage temperature: –40 °C to +70 °C
• Humidity: < 95% RH
• Maximum altitude: 2000 m
• Pollution degree 2
Physical
• Dimensions: 145 mm H × 426 mm W × 545 mm L
• Net weight: 20 kg; Shipping weight: 23 kg
– Key Features
• True multichannel synchronization across all active slots
• Modular architecture—swap modules without system restart
• High-speed GPIB and Ethernet for automated test
• Extended trigger and clocking system for complex test sequences
– Typical Applications
• Multiport optical component characterization
• Wavelength-division multiplex (WDM) system validation
• Simultaneous power and wavelength measurements
• Automated optical test benches
– Compatibility & Integration
Full compatibility with 8163A/B Lightwave Multimeter series modules and all 816xxx series optical modules. HP 8153A Lightwave Multimeter modules are not compatible.
