HP / Agilent 81567A Variable Optical Attenuator Modules

The HP/Agilent 81567A is a dual-slot variable optical attenuator module that delivers precise attenuation control across the 1200–1700 nm wavelength range. Engineered for integration into Agilent’s Lightwave Multichannel platform, this module combines wide dynamic range attenuation (0–60 dB) with sub-millidecibel resolution and exceptional repeatability. An internal photodiode and monitor tap enable active power control, maintaining stable output levels despite input power variations. The integrated shutter provides channel drop simulation and optical isolation up to 100 dB, while single-mode fiber compatibility and low insertion loss (typically 2.2 dB) ensure minimal signal degradation in telecommunications and data communications test environments. Settles in 100–300 ms with ±0.01 dB repeatability and ±0.1 dB accuracy across the full attenuation range.