Agilent/Keysight 81542MM Multimode Optical Source

The Agilent/Keysight 81542MM is a multimode optical source module that generates stable 1300 nm LED output for integration into Agilent/Keysight 8153A and 8163A mainframe systems. This module delivers precise optical signal generation across 50/125 µm multimode fiber environments, supporting both continuous-wave and modulated operation with selectable internal digital modes.

Technical Specifications

• Light Source: LED


• Central Wavelength: 1300 nm ±40 nm


• Spectral Bandwidth (FWHM): –20 dBm minimum


• Short-term Stability (15 min, constant temperature): ±0.002 dB


• Long-term Stability (6 hours, constant temperature): ±0.01 dB


• Output Attenuation Range: 0 to 6 dB


• Modulation Modes: 270 Hz, 1 kHz, 2 kHz (internal digital, selectable)


• Pulse Duty Cycle: 50%

Key Features

• Selectable internal digital modulation at three fixed frequencies for flexible test scenarios


• Exceptionally tight short-term output stability of ±0.002 dB enables repeatable measurements


• Adjustable attenuation from 0 to 6 dB provides dynamic optical power control without external attenuators


• Pulse-shaped output with 50% duty cycle ensures consistent signal conditioning for modulation testing


• Broad spectral bandwidth of <90 nm accommodates multimode fiber dispersion characteristics

Typical Applications

• Multimode optical link characterization and loss budgeting


• LED source substitution in 1300 nm measurement systems


• Power stability verification in optical test configurations


• Digital modulation testing at low frequencies (270 Hz to 2 kHz)


• Attenuation measurement validation across 0 to 6 dB range

Compatibility & Integration The 81542MM installs directly into Agilent/Keysight 8153A and 8163A mainframes via standard Agilent optical interface (connectors ordered separately). Physical dimensions are 12 × 10 × 8 in with a weight of 10 lbs.