Agilent 81635A Dual Lightwave Optical Power Sensor Module

The Agilent 81635A is a dual-channel optical power sensor module for precise lightwave measurements across telecommunications and optical system testing. Equipped with dual InGaAs detectors, it enables simultaneous power measurements from +10 dBm to −80 dBm across the 800 nm to 1650 nm band with ±3% uncertainty. The module integrates directly into Agilent Lightwave Multimeter and Measurement System mainframes, supporting standard single-mode and multi-mode fibers up to 62.5 µm core diameter. Fast averaging down to 100 µs and onboard data logging of up to 20,000 samples enable real-time signal capture and post-measurement analysis. Polarization dependence remains below ±0.015 dB, ensuring stable readings across launch conditions. NIST-traceable calibration and a recommended 2-year recalibration interval maintain measurement confidence in production and R&D environments.

– Technical Specifications

• Sensor Elements: Dual InGaAs detectors
• Wavelength Range: 800 nm to 1650 nm
• Optical Power Range: +10 dBm to −80 dBm
• Power Measurement Uncertainty: ±3% (baseline); additional factors apply for connector type, wavelength region, power level, and fiber class
• Polarization Dependence: < ±0.015 dB
• Averaging Time: As low as 100 µs
• Data Logging Capacity: Up to 20,000 samples
• Analog Output: BNC connector; 0 to 2 V proportional to optical signal, 2 V at full scale

– Key Features

• Dual-channel simultaneous measurement eliminates measurement sequencing delays
• Compatible with standard single-mode and multi-mode fibers (NA ≤ 0.24, up to 62.5 µm core)
• Fast settling time supports transient and modulated signal analysis
• Onboard memory for autonomous logging in field or lab deployments
• Operating temperature range determined by host mainframe
• Recommended 20-minute warm-up period before critical measurements

– Typical Applications

• Optical transmitter and receiver characterization
• Telecommunications link loss budgeting and validation
• Fiber-coupled component testing and calibration
• Laser power monitoring in R&D and manufacturing

– Compatibility & Integration

Plugs into Agilent 8163A/B, 8164A/B, 8166A/B, and 816x series mainframes. Requires flexible or bare-fiber adapters for specific connector terminations. NIST-traceable calibration certificates supplied; recalibration recommended every 2 years.