HP / Agilent 8166A Lightwave Multichannel System

The HP/Agilent 8166A Lightwave Multichannel System is a modular mainframe designed for parallel optical component characterization across research, development, and manufacturing environments. This 17-slot platform accommodates plug-in modules from the Agilent 8163A Lightwave Multimeter family and 816xx series, enabling simultaneous multichannel testing with true synchronous triggering. The system is not compatible with HP 8153A Lightwave Multimeter modules.

– Technical Specifications

The 8166A features a monochrome graphical display (190 × 300 pixels) for real-time control and monitoring. Data acquisition supports selectable averaging time with per-channel measurement storage of approximately 4,000 results (12,000 in remote mode). Acquisition time is user-configurable from 1 second to 23 hours and 59 minutes.

Operating power ranges from 100 VAC to 240 VAC (±10%), 50/60 Hz (±5%), with maximum consumption of 450 VA. The unit measures 9.5 × 17 × 23 inches and weighs 4.2 kg (9.3 lbs) net; shipping weight is 6.5 kg (14.5 lbs). Operating temperature range is 0°C to +45°C; storage from -40°C to +70°C. Humidity tolerance extends to 95% RH at 0°C to 45°C. The system is rated for Pollution Degree 2 environments.

– Key Features

• Supports up to 17 plug-in modules including power sources, compact and fixed laser sources, tunable laser modules, and optical power meters
• True synchronous triggering across all channels
• GPIB interface with SCPI standard compliance for remote automation
• Serial (RS232) and parallel (Centronics) ports for legacy system integration
• Configurable hardware trigger input/output ports
• Optional rackmount kit (Option 908)

– Compatibility & Integration

Full GPIB control enables plug-and-play integration into automated test environments. All instrument modes and parameters are accessible via SCPI commands. Hardware trigger ports support both input and output configuration for synchronization with external systems.