The Agilent/Keysight 8703B Lightwave Component Analyzer characterizes optical and electro-optical components with calibrated measurements across optical and electrical domains. It performs optical transfer function tests, reflection performance analysis, modulation bandwidth measurements, and polarization-dependent loss characterization. The instrument supports 1601 trace data points and applies temperature-compensated calibration with error-correction algorithms to minimize systematic errors and ensure measurement repeatability. Measurement sequences can be memorized with calibration steps and paused for connection changes, then saved as instrument states or recalled for automated routines.
Technical Specifications
Optical Capabilities:
• Wavelength range: 1000–1600 nm (Option 300 adds 1300 nm and 1500 nm receiver support)
• Modulation bandwidth: 50 MHz to 20.05 GHz
• Modulation frequency range: 50 MHz to 20 GHz
• Modulated optical output power: 90–130 µW (p-p, typical for 8703A)
• System sensitivity: 20 nW (typical for 8703A)
• Spectral width: 3 nm RMS (FP) or 50 MHz (DFB, typical for 8703A)
• Optical return loss: ~20 dBo (8703A)
Microwave Source/Receiver:
• Frequency bandwidth: 0.05–20.05 GHz
Wavelength Options:
• Option 155: 1550 nm
• Option 210: 1550 nm DFB Laser
• Option 220: 1300 nm DFB Laser
– Key Features
• Insertion loss and group delay measurements
• Optical reflection performance testing
• Electrical transfer function and reflection response tests
• 3 dB bandwidth determination
• Modulation index control (typical 25% for 8703A)
• Temperature-compensated optical components for calibrated measurements
• Noise floor measured at 30 Hz IF bandwidth with 6× averaging factor
– Typical Applications
• Laser diode characterization
• Optical modulator and photodiode testing
• Fiber cable and connector evaluation
• Transmitter/receiver pair validation
• Electrical microwave component testing (amplifiers, cables, connectors)
– Compatibility & Integration
Firmware maintains backward compatibility with the Agilent 8703A, enabling integration into existing production environments without system redesign.
