The Keysight/Agilent/HP 8156A Opt. 201 is a high-performance optical attenuator engineered for precision signal attenuation across extended wavelength ranges. This non-modular instrument delivers accurate, repeatable control of optical power in telecommunications testing, R&D, and production environments. The Option 201 designation specifies high return loss performance and angled contact (APC) connectors optimized for single-mode fiber applications.
Technical Specifications
Optical Performance
• Wavelength range: 1200 nm to 1650 nm
• Attenuation range: 60 dB (excluding insertion loss)
• Attenuation resolution: 0.001 dB
• Attenuation accuracy (linearity, typical): ±0.1 dB, ±0.05 dB
• Return loss: >60 dB
• Insertion loss (typical): 2.5 dB
• Polarization dependent loss (PDL, typical): <0.03 dBpp
• Repeatability (typical): ±0.005 dB
• Maximum input level: +23 dBm (200 mW)
• Settling time: 20 ms to 400 ms
Fiber & Connectors
• Fiber type: 9/125 µm single-mode
• Connector type: Angled Contact (APC)
• Optical interface: Two connector interfaces (sold separately)
Environmental
• Operating temperature: 0°C to 55°C
• Storage temperature: -40°C to 80°C
• Humidity: 60 dB return loss for minimal reflection
• Sub-millidecibel resolution (0.001 dB) with ±0.005 dB repeatability
• Low PDL characteristic ensures polarization-insensitive operation
• Remote programmability via GPIB interface
• Battery-backed settings retention during power loss
– Typical Applications
• Fast telecommunications system measurements
• Component characterization in R&D labs
• Production testing of optical subsystems
• Signal conditioning in test setups
– Compatibility & Integration
The 8156A mainframe supports multiple performance options (100, 101, 121, 201, 221, 350). Option 201 is configured for single-mode fiber with APC connectors. Back reflector kits (e.g., Option 202, 203) are available separately. Connector interfaces from the Agilent 81000xI Series are required and purchased independently.
