The Keysight/Agilent/HP 83440B is a DC to 6 GHz lightwave detector that converts modulated optical signals into electrical waveforms for analysis on standard test instruments. Built around a hermetically sealed, unamplified InGaAs photodiode, the 83440B delivers high-fidelity O/E conversion with minimal signal distortion. Its direct-mount probe design connects to instrument front panels via a precision 3.5 mm microwave coaxial connector, eliminating external cable losses and coupling artifacts that degrade measurement accuracy.
Engineered for telecommunications component characterization, laser performance validation, and general fiber optic measurements, the 83440B combines fast temporal response with broad bandwidth to capture both pulse shapes and spectral content in a single instrument connection.
## Technical Specifications
• Bandwidth: 6 GHz (3 dB optical)
• Rise/Fall Time (10–90%): <80 ps
• Pulse Response (FWHM): 73 ps
• System Aberrations (2 ps FWHM pulse): 10% peak-to-peak maximum, 5% typical
• DC Responsivity at 1300 nm: 35 V/W minimum (into 50 Ω load)
• Deflection Factor at 1300 nm: 29 µW/div (Agilent 54120 family oscilloscope)
• Deflection Factor at 1550 nm: 31 µW/div (Agilent 54120 family oscilloscope)
• Noise Equivalent Power: 2 µW RMS maximum
• Photodiode: Hermetically sealed, unamplified InGaAs
• Optical Input: Universal interface, compatible with 9/125 µm fiber
• Electrical Output Connector: Precision 3.5 mm microwave coaxial
## Key Features
• Direct-mount probe eliminates external cabling and connector losses
• Low internal distortion preserves signal integrity across the full 6 GHz band
• High conversion gain enables use with standard electrical instruments
• Fast <80 ps rise/fall time resolves nanosecond and sub-nanosecond optical events
• Option 050 includes 50 Ω termination with fourth-order Bessel-Thomson response for SDH/SONET filter compatibility
## Typical Applications
• Fiber optic telecommunications system characterization
• Laser and optical modulator performance optimization
• Optical pulse shape and timing analysis
• High-speed optical signal spectral measurements
• Component testing in optical communication networks
## Compatibility & Integration
The 83440B connects to the front panel of Agilent/Keysight electrical instruments and oscilloscopes. Its universal optical interface accommodates standard fiber connectors via optional adapters.
