Agilent/Keysight 8152A – Optical Multimeter

The Agilent/Keysight 8152A Optical Average Power Meter delivers absolute and relative optical power measurements across a broad wavelength spectrum. This two-input instrument accommodates both single-mode and multi-mode fibers, enabling precise characterization of active and passive optical components. Modular optical head architecture extends measurement capability from 450 nm to 1700 nm, with interchangeable sensors providing tailored dynamic range and sensitivity for specific test requirements.

Technical Specifications

• Optical inputs: Two independent channels


• Wavelength range: 450 nm to 1700 nm (head-dependent)


• Resolution: 0.01 dB; minimum 10 pW (with HP 81521B head)


• Linearity: 1% typical


• Warm-up time: 20 minutes Measurement Range & Accuracy vary by optical head:


• HP 81520A: +10 dBm to −100 dBm; ±2.2% absolute accuracy (600–1020 nm); ±4% ±0.5 pW total uncertainty


• HP 81521B: +3 dBm to −80 dBm; ±2.5% absolute accuracy (600–1020 nm); ±5% ±0.5 pW total uncertainty


• HP 81522A: −30 dBm to −100 dBm Automatic sensitivity correction applies when operating wavelength is entered. Electrical Interface


• Maximum input voltage: ±10 V


• Output voltage: 0–2 V into open circuit


• Output impedance: 600 Ω typical


• HP-IB/GPIB remote control and programming (SH1, AH1, T6, L4, SR1, RL1, PP0, DC1, DT1, C0)

Key Features

• Dual-channel architecture for simultaneous or sequential measurements


• Fiber type compatibility: single-mode and multi-mode


• Modular optical head design enables wavelength range extension


• Automatic wavelength-dependent calibration


• Programmable instrument control via HP-IB interface

Typical Applications

• Absolute and relative power measurement in lightwave test systems


• Active optical component output power characterization


• Passive component insertion loss and attenuation assessment


• Ratio measurements at identical or different wavelengths


• Secondary standard operation in metrology environments

Compatibility & Integration Optical heads (ordered separately): HP 81520A (450–1020 nm), HP 81521B (900–1700 nm), HP 81522A (1000–1550 nm). External optical power splitters (HP 81000AS/BS) enable insertion loss measurements.