Agilent / Keysight 86060C Lightwave Switch

The Agilent/Keysight 86060C Lightwave Switch is a precision optical signal routing instrument for fiber optic component and system testing. Built around a temperature-stabilized stepper motor, it delivers bi-directional 1xN switching with repeatable performance across 10 million cycles and insertion loss stability of ±0.025 dB to ±0.03 dB.

– Technical Specifications

• Switching Architecture: 1xN stepper motor design with bi-directional switching capability
• Channel Configuration: Four to eight output channels; one or two input channels
• Fiber Types: 9/125 µm single-mode; 62.5/125 µm and 50/125 µm multi-mode
• Insertion Loss (Typical):
– Single-mode: 0.7 dB to 1.0 dB
– Multi-mode: 0.6 dB to 0.8 dB
• Insertion Loss Stability (Typical): ±0.025 dB to ±0.03 dB
• Repeatability (Typical):
– Sequential switching: ±0.005 dB
– Random switching: ±0.008 dB
• Operating Temperature: +0°C to +55°C (120 minutes stabilization required)
• Switch Lifespan: Minimum 10 million repeatable cycles

– Key Features

• Temperature-stabilized design ensures consistent performance across operating range
• Visual signal path display enables intuitive manual control and position recall
• GPIB and RS-232 interfaces with SCPI-compatible command set for remote automation
• Compact form factor for benchtop and system integration
• Standard FC, SC, or ST fiber connectors; DIN, Diamond, and angled physical contact available upon request

– Typical Applications

• Automated optical component testing
• Fiber optic system validation
• Optical signal routing in measurement systems

– Compatibility & Integration

Configures directly with Keysight optical attenuators, lightwave multimeters, OTDRs, and optical test instrumentation. Multilayer software available for control of multiple switch configurations in both benchtop and automated system deployments.