The Agilent/Keysight 8170A Lightwave Measurement System is a modular platform for optical and lightwave testing. It accommodates plug-in modules to function as a tunable laser source, power meter, return loss meter, and additional optical instruments. The system serves component testing and characterization across diverse optical applications.
Technical Specifications
Wavelength Coverage
• Tunable laser sources cover 1460 nm to 1580 nm
• Specific modules: 81480A/B (1400 nm), 81680A/B (1550 nm), 81640A/B (1600 nm), 81672B (1300 nm)
• Absolute wavelength accuracy: ±0.01 nm
• Wavelength repeatability: ±0.5 pm
Optical Power
• Standard tunable laser output: up to 6 dBm
• High-power modules: +10 dBm to +13 dBm
• Optical attenuation capability: >60 dB adjustment range
• Power meter resolution: 0.0001 dB/dBm or 0.01 pW display
Mainframe Architecture
• 8164A/B: one extended slot for tunable lasers; four compact module slots
• 8163A/B: two compact module slots
• 8166A/B: up to 17 modules
– Key Features
• Mode-hop-free tuning with continuous output power for DWDM component testing
• Ultra-low Source Spontaneous Emission (SSE) for crosstalk measurements
• Fast power sensor modules with high-resolution display
• GPIB interface with SCPI command support; burst data rate 300 kB/sec
• LAN connectivity for remote control
• Parallel port (Centronics) and serial port (RS232) support
• GPIB function codes: SH1, AH1, T6, L4, SR0, RL1, PP0, DC1, DT0, C0
– Typical Applications
Optical component characterization, DWDM system testing, tunable laser source deployment, optical power measurement, and return loss analysis.
– Compatibility & Integration
The 8164A/B mainframe accepts modules from the 8153A and 8163A Lightwave Multimeter series. Agilent A-series modules are not compatible with HP 8164A Lightwave Multimeter platforms.
