The HP/Agilent 81609A is a step-tunable laser source engineered for high-power output and exceptionally low spontaneous emission (SSE), addressing demanding optical testing and measurement applications across the C and L bands. As part of the 8160xA family, it delivers narrow linewidth performance, mode-hop-free tuning, and outstanding spectral purity with SSE ratios reaching ≥75 dB/nm typical.
Technical Specifications
Wavelength & Tuning
• Wavelength range options: 1240–1380 nm (Option 113), 1340–1495 nm, 1450–1650 nm, 1490–1640 nm
• Resolution: 0.1 pm
• Tuning time: 300 ms typical (1 nm step), 1.5 seconds (100 nm step) at maximum output power
• Absolute wavelength accuracy: ±20 pm typical (±5 pm in stepped mode); ±10 pm typical in continuous sweep mode
• Wavelength stability: ≤±5 pm over 24 hours
• Wavelength repeatability: ±3 pm typical
• Continuous sweep across full wavelength range; mode-hop-free operation
Power Performance
• Maximum output power: >+13 dBm peak typical (Option 113); >+12 dBm peak typical (Options 114, 116, 216); user-adjustable down to 0 dBm
• Power stability: ±0.01 dB over 1 hour; ±0.03 dB typical over 24 hours
• Power linearity: ±0.1 dB
• Power flatness vs. wavelength: ±0.25 dB
• Power repeatability: ±0.01 dB typical
• RIN (0.1–6 GHz): <−150 dB/Hz typical
Spectral Quality
• Linewidth: 50 MHz (coherence control on)
• SSE ratio: ≥70 dB; ≥75 dB/nm typical; ≥75 dB/nm and ≥85 dB/0.1 nm
• Signal to total SSE ratio: ≥70 dB
– Key Features
• Microprocessor-controlled front panel and remote programming
• Multiple fiber connector options for standard single-mode and polarization-maintaining fiber
• High spectral purity enables advanced amplitude modulation applications
• Relative wavelength accuracy: ±30 pm typical (±10 pm)
– Compatibility & Integration
Integrates with Agilent 8163A, 8164A, or 8166A Lightwave Measurement Systems mainframes. Designed for use with Keysight N774xA multiport power meters.
