HP 8157A Optical Attenuator 1300 / 1550nm Tested and Working

The HP 8157A is a programmable optical attenuator for precise control of optical power levels across the 1200–1650 nm band, with specific optimization for 1300 nm and 1550 nm wavelengths. This single-mode fiber instrument delivers 0–60 dB attenuation with 0.01 dB display resolution, linearity of ±0.05 dB, and return loss of 45 dB. Polarization sensitivity remains below 0.02 dB peak-to-peak, ensuring stable performance across all polarization states. The attenuator handles optical input power up to 2 W and features wavelength flatness of ±0.05 dB, making it ideal for optical component characterization, bit error rate testing, and communication system validation. Remote programming via GPIB/HP-IB enables integration into automated test environments. The unit is supplied tested and verified for working condition.

– Technical Specifications

• Attenuation Range: 0–60 dB
• Wavelength Coverage: 1200–1650 nm (optimized for 1300 nm and 1550 nm)
• Fiber Type: Single-mode (SMF)
• Display Resolution: 0.01 dB
• Insertion Loss: Typically 2 dB; approximately 1.0 dB at 0 dB setting at 1550 nm
• Maximum Input Power: 2 W
• Return Loss: 45 dB
• Linearity (typical): ±0.05 dB
• Wavelength Flatness: ±0.05 dB
• Polarization Sensitivity: Less than 0.02 dB p-p

– Key Features

• High-speed attenuation control with 0.01 dB resolution
• Polarization-insensitive operation across the 1200–1650 nm window
• Low and consistent insertion loss for accurate measurements
• GPIB/HP-IB remote control interface
• Standard Agilent optical connectors (HMS-10/HP fiber interface)

– Typical Applications

• Optical component and subsystem characterization
• Bit error rate (BER) testing in optical communication systems
• Power level calibration and validation
• Wavelength-dependent attenuation studies

– Compatibility & Integration

Designed as a plug-in module for the Agilent Lightwave Solution platform, including the 8163A/B, 8164A/B, and 8166A/B test systems. Operates as a standalone instrument with GPIB connectivity. Optical connector adapters are available separately.