HP / Agilent 8168D 1490-1565nm Tunable Laser Source (TLS)

The HP/Agilent 8168D is a precision tunable laser source operating across the 1490–1565 nm wavelength range. Designed for telecommunications and photonics test environments, it delivers stable optical output for characterizing optical amplifiers, filters, transceivers, and other C-band and L-band components. The instrument supports both manual front-panel wavelength control and remote operation via GPIB (IEEE-488), RS-232, or Ethernet interfaces, enabling integration into automated test systems.

– Technical Specifications

Optical Performance
• Wavelength range: 1490 nm to 1565 nm
• Output power: Multiple dBm levels available (varies with wavelength)
• Power stability: Specified in dB over defined periods at fixed wavelength
• Wavelength accuracy: Absolute precision at set wavelength values
• Wavelength repeatability: Consistency when returning to previously set wavelengths
• Spectral linewidth: Measured in kHz or MHz
• Side mode suppression ratio (SMSR): Ratio of main mode to strongest side mode power

Optical Output
• Connector type: FC/APC or FC/UPC
• Fiber type: Single-mode fiber (SMF), ITU-T G.652 compatible
• Return loss: Specified minimum acceptable values to protect laser source

Control & Interfaces
• Wavelength control: Front-panel manual control and remote digital operation
• Remote interfaces: GPIB (IEEE-488), RS-232, Ethernet
• Modulation: Optional amplitude modulation (AM) and frequency modulation (FM) at specified frequencies and depths

Electrical
• Power input: 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz

– Key Features

• Narrow spectral linewidth for high-resolution spectral analysis
• High SMSR for clean laser output
• Dual control paths enable manual bench operation and automated system integration
• Stable power output across the C- and L-band telecommunications window

– Typical Applications

• Optical amplifier validation and gain characterization
• Optical filter and component resonance testing
• Transceiver and receiver sensitivity measurements
• Manufacturing and quality control in optical communications systems
• R&D characterization of photonic components

– Compatibility & Integration

Designed for single-mode fiber installations with standard industry connectors. GPIB, RS-232, and Ethernet connectivity support integration into larger automated test frameworks and data acquisition systems.