The HP/Agilent 81591A is a 1×2 modular optical switch engineered for automated testing and signal routing in optical and network component development. This plug-in module integrates into Agilent’s Lightwave Solution Platforms (8163A/B, 8164A/B, 8166A/B) to enable flexible optical signal distribution across wide wavelength spans with minimal loss and exceptional crosstalk isolation.
## Technical Specifications
**Optical Performance**
• Switch configuration: 1×2 single-mode
• Wavelength range: 1270 nm to 1650 nm
• Insertion loss (excluding connectors): < 0.8 dB
• Insertion loss (including connectors): < 1.2 dB (typical 0.8 dB)
• Polarization dependent loss: 10 million cycles
• Repeatability: < ±0.005 dB
**Physical & Environmental**
• Connector type: SC/APC angled (single-mode fiber)
• Dimensions: 75 mm H × 32 mm W × 335 mm D
• Weight: 0.5 kg
• Operating temperature: 10 °C to 45 °C
• Humidity: 95% non-condensing
• Warm-up time: 30 minutes
## Key Features
• Low insertion loss across the C, L, and extended L-bands
• Excellent PDL performance minimizes signal distortion in polarization-sensitive applications
• High return loss (60 dB typical) reduces back-reflection effects
• Crosstalk suppression at –70 dB ensures clean signal separation
• Rapid switching (10 ms) supports high-throughput test sequences
• Extended mechanical life rating (10 million cycles) for production test environments
## Typical Applications
• Automated wavelength routing in component characterization
• Signal path selection in multi-wavelength test setups
• Manufacturing test automation for fiber-optic subsystems
• Optical network equipment validation
## Compatibility & Integration
The 81591A operates as a plugin module within Agilent Lightwave Solution Platforms. Compatible mainframes include the 8163A/B, 8164A/B, and 8166A/B. Manufactured to ISO 9001 quality standards.
