The Keysight 8163B Lightwave Multimeter Mainframe System is a modular platform for optical power and loss measurement in R&D and manufacturing environments. This configurable mainframe accepts multiple plug-in modules—including optical power meters, light sources, switches, attenuators, wavelength meters, interferometers, and fiber inspection probes—enabling measurement customization across diverse optical testing requirements. Measurement results are displayed on an integrated front panel display and output in dBm, W, or dB relative to a reference. Optical loss is derived by combining a light source module with a power meter module, with accuracy dependent on the calibration and performance of both installed modules. The system supports common optical connectors (FC/APC, SC) and external control interfaces.
Technical Specifications
• Mainframe Type: Modular Lightwave Multimeter System
• Module Slots: Configurable; specific slot count varies by configuration
• Optical Power Measurement Units: dBm, W, dB (relative to reference)
• Optical Power Accuracy: Module-dependent; varies with installed power meter module
• Optical Power Range: Wide dynamic range; specification varies with installed power meter module
• Optical Power Resolution: Module-dependent
• Optical Loss Measurement: Achieved by combining light source module with power meter module
• Optical Loss Accuracy: Dependent on calibration and accuracy of both source and detector modules
• Front Panel Connectors: Optical connectors (FC/APC, SC); external trigger and control connections available
– Key Features
• Modular architecture enables system customization for specific measurement applications
• Auto-ranging, auto-zero, and reference value storage capabilities
• Integrated display for instrument status and real-time measurement readings
• Support for multiple optical source types: fixed wavelength, tunable, and broadband
• Optical signal routing via plug-in switch modules
• Precise signal attenuation with plug-in attenuator modules
• Wavelength measurement capability with dedicated modules
• Fiber end-face inspection functionality
– Typical Applications
• Research and development of optical components and systems
• Manufacturing quality control and optical power validation
• Fiber optic link characterization and loss budgeting
• Optical source performance validation
• System integration and troubleshooting
– Compatibility & Integration
The 8163B accepts industry-standard optical connectors and external control signals, enabling integration into test benches and automated measurement systems. All performance metrics are module-dependent; specific accuracy, range, and resolution specifications are determined by the installed plug-in configuration.
