HP / Agilent 81577A Variable Optical Attenuator Modules with Power Control and Angled Interface

The HP/Agilent 81577A is a variable optical attenuator module that delivers precise control of optical signal strength across the extended C- and L-band wavelength ranges. Built for telecom and datacom test environments, it combines a 0–60 dB attenuation range with integrated power metering, power control, and automatic shuttering to streamline optical characterization workflows. The angled single-mode connector and low polarization-dependent loss ensure signal fidelity across multiple wavelengths without introducing measurable distortion.

– Technical Specifications

• Attenuation Range: 0 dB to 60 dB
• Attenuation Accuracy: < 0.1 dB
• Resolution: 0.001 dB
• Repeatability: < 10 mdB
• Wavelength Range: 1200 nm to 1700 nm (Single Mode); 1250 nm to 1650 nm
• Wavelength Flatness: < 0.05 dB
• Maximum Input Power: 2 W (+33 dBm)
• Return Loss: Typically 57 dB
• Fiber Type: Single Mode 9/125 µm SMF28

– Key Features

• Power Control: Maintains constant output power levels by compensating for input variations, enabling repeatable test results across multiple wavelengths.
• Built-in Power Meter: Directly monitors and sets transmitted power without requiring external instrumentation.
• Built-in Shutter: Protects downstream components and eliminates setup reconfiguration when zeroing power references.
• Built-in Calibration: Reduces measurement uncertainty in multi-wavelength deployments.
• Offset Functionality: Optimizes optical path calibration across diverse test configurations.
• Low Signal Distortion: Achieves minimal polarization dependent loss (PDL), polarization mode dispersion (PMD), and chromatic dispersion (CD).

– Typical Applications

• Optical component characterization and validation
• Telecom network testing and measurement
• Datacom signal path optimization
• Multi-wavelength power level control

– Compatibility & Integration

Designed as a two-slot plug-in module for the Agilent Lightwave Solution Platform. Operates within mainframes 8163A/B, 8164A/B, and 8166A/B. Angled connector interface facilitates secure fiber coupling and simplified maintenance.