HP / Agilent 11896A Polarization Controller

The HP/Agilent 11896A is a precision polarization controller that manipulates light polarization states within single-mode fiber optic systems. It enables repeatable, fine-grained control over polarization for PDL/PDG measurements, polarization synthesis, and testing of polarization-sensitive optical components. Manual front-panel adjustment, automatic scanning, and remote GPIB control provide flexible operational modes with 0.18° resolution and 360° rotation capability in under 0.5 seconds.

## Technical Specifications

• Operating wavelength range: 1250–1600 nm, 1250–1640 nm, or 980 nm and 1250–1640 nm (model dependent)
• Insertion loss: 55 dB
• Extinction ratio: > 40 dB or > 37 dB
• Maximum input power: +23 dBm
• Adjustment resolution: 0.18° (1000 equal steps over 180°)
• Rotation rate: 360° in < 0.5 seconds
• Fiber type: Single-mode
• Power supply: 90–250 Vrms (47–63 Hz) or 100/120/220/240 Vrms (48–60 Hz)
• Power consumption: 60 VA maximum
• Dimensions: 10 × 21.3 × 36 cm (H × W × D)
• Weight: 4.5 kg

## Key Features

• Three control modes: manual knob adjustment, automatic scanning, and remote GPIB commands
• Nine programmable save/recall registers for configuration storage
• Spliced fiber pigtail interfaces (requires two 81000 series connector interface adapters, sold separately)
• Connector options: FC/PC, Diamond HMS-10, DIN 47256/4108, ST, or angled/straight contact connectors

## Typical Applications

• Polarization-dependent loss and gain measurements in optical systems
• Polarization state synthesis and SOP generation
• Component testing: EDFAs, isolators, switches, lasers, modulators, couplers, and interferometers
• DWDM component characterization