The Keysight (Agilent) 86038A Optical Dispersion Analyzer characterizes chromatic dispersion (CD) and polarization mode dispersion (PMD) in optical fibers and components with high precision. It delivers simultaneous measurements of Group Delay (GD), Differential Group Delay (DGD), Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL), and Insertion Loss (IL) in a single connection, minimizing test uncertainty and measurement time. The instrument combines a high-speed polarization scanner, modulator, and dual optical receivers with the Agilent E8801A performance network analyzer for fast, accurate phase measurement across the O to L bands.
Technical Specifications
• Wavelength range: 1260 nm to 1640 nm (O to L band)
• Measurement parameters: Group Delay (GD), Chromatic Dispersion (CD), Differential Group Delay (DGD), Polarization Mode Dispersion (PMD), Insertion Loss (IL), Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL)
• Modulation frequency capability: Down to 5 MHz
• Wavelength step resolution: 0.1 pm
• Full-span measurement: 1601 wavelength points in less than 10 seconds
• High-speed polarization scanner enables DGD and PDL measurements at each wavelength point
– Key Features
• Simultaneous GD and CD measurements from a single test connection
• Simultaneous DGD and PMD measurements with automatic PMD-to-CD correction
• Simultaneous IL and PDL measurements
• Leading GD repeatability across wide loss dynamic range
• Excellent resolution for narrowband device measurements
• Low noise and high-speed capability with continuous sweep mode for real-time device tuning
• Capable of resolving fine group delay ripple detail in fiber Bragg gratings and amplitude/CD characteristics in DWDM components
– Typical Applications
• R&D characterization of DWDM and CWDM components
• Dispersion compensating grating evaluation
• Optical fiber analysis
• Amplifier and optical system dispersion assessment
• Manufacturing throughput optimization
– Compatibility & Integration
The 86038A integrates with the Agilent E8801A performance network analyzer platform, designed for maximum measurement speed, dynamic range, and accuracy.
