Agilent/Keysight 71450B – Optical Spectrum Analyzer

The Agilent/Keysight 71450B is a diffraction-grating-based optical spectrum analyzer for precise spectral characterization across 600 to 1700 nm. It measures optical power versus wavelength with sensitivity to -90 dBm and delivers 60 dB dynamic range, enabling detailed analysis of optical components, amplifiers, LEDs, DFB lasers, and Fabry-Perot lasers.

Technical Specifications

Wavelength Range: 600 to 1700 nm Sensitivity & Dynamic Range

• Sensitivity: -90 dBm


• Dynamic range: 60 dB


• Maximum input power (monochromator): +30 dBm


• Maximum photodetector input level: +20 dBm


• Largest measurable power before compression: +10 dBm Wavelength Accuracy


• Absolute accuracy: ±1 nm


• After user calibration: ±0.3 nm


• After calibration within ±0.05 nm of cal signal: ±0.2 nm


• Span linearity (<40 nm spans): ±0.05 nm


• Span linearity (1530–1570 nm): ±0.02 nm


• Reproducibility (1 minute): ±0.005 nm


• Reproducibility after calibration (1 minute): ±0.001 nm


• Tuning repeatability: ±0.005 nm


• Settability: ±0.005 nm Resolution Bandwidth


• FWHM: <0.08 nm and 0.1 to 10 nm in 1,2,5 sequence


• <0.08 nm setting: 0.065 nm ±15%


• Resolution accuracy (≥0.5 nm, 1250–1600 nm): ±20%


• Resolution accuracy (0.1–10 nm, 600–1700 nm): ±30%


• Corrected bandwidth accuracy for noise markers (≥0.5 nm, 1250–1600 nm): ±3%


• Corrected bandwidth accuracy (0.2 nm, 1250–1600 nm): ±5% Environmental


• Operating temperature: 0° to 55° C


• Relative humidity: <95%


• Stabilization: 1 hour continuous operation plus auto-align routine Physical


• Dimensions: 24 × 20 × 16 in


• Weight: Approximately 35–50 lbs

Key Features

• Unique double-pass monochromator architecture


• Automatic spectral width measurement at -3 dB, -20 dB, or user-defined levels


• Peak power determination and side-mode suppression ratio analysis


• DFB stop-band characterization


• Auto-align routine for sustained amplitude accuracy


• Three instrument modes: preselector, stimulus response, and photodetector test

Typical Applications

• Optical component characterization (couplers, switches, filters, fibers)


• Laser source spectral analysis and quality assessment


• LED spectral profiling


• Stimulus-response measurements for optical devices

Compatibility & Integration Integrates the HP 70950B module for core measurement functionality. Accommodates HP 71451B photodetector for optimized performance across the operating wavelength range.