The HP/Agilent 8158B is a programmable optical attenuator that delivers precise control of optical power levels across fiber optic systems. It spans a 60 dB attenuation range with 0.01 dB display resolution, supporting both single-mode and multimode fibers with numerical apertures up to 0.3. The instrument features wavelength-dependent attenuation correction, user-calibration capability, and HP-IB programmability for seamless integration into automated test systems.
Technical Specifications
• Attenuation Range: 60 dB
• Display Resolution: 0.01 dB
• Wavelength Options:
– Option 001: 600 nm to 1200 nm
– Option 002: 1200 nm to 1650 nm
• Insertion Loss (typical): 1.0 dB (single-mode and multimode, Option 002)
• Insertion Loss (maximum): < 2.0 dB typical across fiber types; < 5.0 dB worst case single-mode (9 µm, Option 002)
• Attenuation Accuracy (Linearity): ±0.2 dB (multimode), ±0.4 dB (single-mode)
• Repeatability: ±0.04 dB (post-reset), < 0.1 dB (multimode after 6 matings), 27 dB
• Settling Time: Typically 20 ms
• Fiber Compatibility: Single-mode (9 µm) and multimode (50 µm) with NA ≤ 0.3
– Key Features
• Automatic wavelength-dependent attenuation correction via instrument memory
• Multiple operating modes: output disable, single-mode, multimode, wavelength entry, attenuation display, and calibration
• User-calibration for display offset adjustment at output connector
• Diamond HMS-10/HP, DIN 47256, and optional ST/FC-PC connectors
• Dimensions: 212 mm W × 89 mm H × 345 mm D
– Typical Applications
Fiber optic system characterization, power level control in optical testing, single-wavelength and multiwavelength system validation, and automated attenuator control via GPIB interface.
– Compatibility & Integration
HP-IB (GPIB) programming enables full remote control and data logging. The instrument accommodates connector options for laboratory and field installations.
