The Keysight N7742C Optical Multiport Power Meter with Analog Output delivers precision optical power measurement across multiple channels with integrated analog feedback for automated test systems. Available in 2- or 4-channel configurations with standard (1250–1650 nm) or extended (800–1650 nm) wavelength ranges, this instrument measures optical power from -60 dBm to +10 dBm while maintaining noise floors below 1 nW at -30 dBm and sub-600 nW at +10 dBm. Each channel outputs 0 V to 2 V analog voltage via BNC connector, configurable for linear or logarithmic response to track wide dynamic range signals during alignment operations.
Technical Specifications
• Channels: 2 or 4 power sensor channels (Options #200, #210, #400, #410)
• Wavelength Range: Standard 1250–1650 nm; Extended 800–1650 nm (Options #210, #410)
• Power Range: -60 dBm to +10 dBm
• Analog Output: 0 V to 2 V per channel; linear or logarithmic scaling; BNC connectors
• Measurement Speed: Up to 1 million samples per second per port; 250 kHz bandwidth
• Averaging Time: Minimum 1 µs
• Memory: 1 M samples per port plus 1 M/port continuous logging buffer
• Data Transfer: 3× faster than prior generation
• Noise (2σ, 100k samples, typical): <1 nW @ -30 dBm; <1.5 nW @ -20 dBm; <6 nW @ -10 dBm; <60 nW @ 0 dBm; <600 nW @ +10 dBm
• Accuracy (reference conditions): ±0.3% annual aging; ±0.6% two-year aging
– Key Features
• Dual-ported RAM architecture enables uninterrupted simultaneous measurement and readout
• Fast power range switching with high-speed swept-wavelength and transient measurement capability
• Simultaneous multi-channel operation increases test throughput in manufacturing and research environments
• Logarithmic analog output mode optimized for real-time alignment feedback over extended dynamic range
– Typical Applications
• Automated optical power monitoring and control in manufacturing test stations
• Real-time alignment feedback for optical component assembly
• Multi-wavelength power characterization in research and development
• Transient and swept-wavelength measurement campaigns
– Compatibility & Integration
Programming code compatibility with Keysight Lightwave measurement solution platform enables integration into existing automated test environments without extensive reconfiguration.
