The HP/Agilent 81573A is a variable optical attenuator module engineered for precise control of optical power levels in high-power test and measurement applications. This plug-in module integrates into Agilent’s Lightwave Multichannel Platforms and delivers accurate, repeatable attenuation across the optical spectrum. The straight-interface design enables direct integration into optical systems, while manual or remote attenuation control accommodates both benchtop and automated measurement configurations.
## Technical Specifications
• **Product Type**: Variable Optical Attenuator Module
• **Interface Type**: Straight Interface
• **Power Handling**: High input power capability
• **Insertion Loss**: Low
• **Wavelength Flatness**: Excellent
• **Polarization Mode Dispersion (PMD)**: Low — supports high-bit-rate transmission system testing
• **Calibration**: Reference power level setting via integrated calibration features
• **Shutter**: Integrated shutter for channel drop simulation and optical protection
## Key Features
• Manual and remote attenuation setting
• High accuracy combined with operational flexibility
• Low PMD performance enables characterization of modern high-speed optical systems
• Integrated photodiode-based feedback mechanisms for controlled optical power management
## Typical Applications
• Optical component and system characterization
• Power level control in high-power optical test setups
• Telecommunication industry test and measurement
• Transmission system validation requiring accurate attenuation control
## Compatibility & Integration
The 81573A is a single-slot plug-in module compatible with Agilent Lightwave Multichannel Platform mainframes: 8163A/B, 8164A/B, and 8166A/B series.
