HP / Agilent 81560A Variable Optical Attenuators
The HP/Agilent 81560A is a variable optical attenuator used to reduce the power of an optical signal without distorting it. It features precise attenuation control, low insertion loss, and excellent repeatability. Ideal for testing optical communication systems and components.
- Model
- HP / Agilent 81560A
- Calibration
- Available on request
- Price
- $1,260
- Status
- In stock
- RFQ ref
- 81560A
This unit
The HP/Agilent 81560A Variable Optical Attenuator is a plug-in module for the Lightwave Multichannel platform that provides precision attenuation of optical signals across the C-, L-, and extended bands. Operating from 1200 nm to 1700 nm, it delivers 0 to 60 dB of attenuation with 0.001 dB resolution and ±0.1 dB accuracy. The module accepts up to +22 dBm input power and integrates an electronically controlled shutter for channel simulation and protection.
Technical Specifications
Attenuation Range: 0 to 60 dB
Resolution: 0.001 dB
Accuracy: ±0.1 dB
Repeatability: ±0.01 dB
Wavelength Range: 1200 nm to 1700 nm
Fiber Type: 9/125 µm SMF28 Single Mode Fiber
Insertion Loss: Typically ≤ 1.5 dB (excluding connectors)
Insertion Loss Flatness: Typically ±0.1 dB (1420 nm < λ < 1615 nm)
Polarization Dependent Loss: < 0.05 dBpp
Return Loss: ≥ 50 dB
Maximum Input Power: +22 dBm
Shutter Isolation: Typically 100 dB
Settling Time: Typically 100 ms
Warm-up Time: 30 min
Key Features
Manual and remote control via GPIB, RS-232, or USB
Integrated optical shutter for channel drop simulation
Reference power functionality for normalized attenuation and power displays
Automatic wavelength corrections applied on operator input
Compact form factor: 75 mm × 32 mm × 335 mm (2.8" × 1.3" × 13.2")
Operating temperature range: 10 °C to 45 °C
Recommended recalibration interval: 2 years
Typical Applications
Optical power level control in single-wavelength test configurations
Channel drop simulation in multichannel systems
Signal attenuation for receiver saturation testing
Telecommunications test and measurement
Compatibility & Integration Designed as a plug-in module for Agilent's Lightwave Multichannel platform (8163A/B, 8164A/B, 8166A/B). Connects via straight connector to host chassis.
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Range (dBm) | '+22 dBm maximum input |
| 0 to 60 dB attenuation range | Wavelength Range | 1200 nm to 1700 nm |
HP / Agilent 81560A — Repair & Calibration Service
Aumictech offers NIST-traceable calibration and repair for the HP / Agilent 81560A. Calibration covers attenuation accuracy at 5 or more set values across the full range (0 to rated maximum dB), attenuation linearity, wavelength-dependent attenuation at 1310 nm, 1490 nm, and 1550 nm, insertion loss at minimum attenuation (0 dB position), and polarization-dependent loss (PDL) where applicable. All calibrations ship with a NIST-traceable certificate. Turnaround is typically 1–3 business days after receipt.
Common HP / Agilent 81560A faults: motor and gear mechanism wear (attenuation steps or loss of smooth control), optical port contamination, EEPROM calibration data corruption. Most common faults are motor or gear mechanism wear on variable attenuators causing attenuation steps or loss of smooth control, optical port contamination reducing dynamic range, and EEPROM calibration data corruption on digitally controlled models.
HP / Agilent 81560A price
This HP / Agilent 81560A is listed at $1,259.8. Calibration is available separately from $450. Contact us for volume pricing or if you need multiple units.
HP / Agilent 81560A calibration cost
NIST-traceable calibration for the HP / Agilent 81560A is $450 (standard — pass/fail certificate and calibration sticker) or $650 (full measured data at every test point, reference standards documented, traceability chain included). Calibration for this instrument covers attenuation accuracy at 5 or more set values across the full range (0 to rated maximum dB), attenuation linearity, wavelength-dependent attenuation at 1310 nm, 1490 nm, and 1550 nm, insertion loss at minimum attenuation (0 dB position), and polarization-dependent loss (PDL) where applicable. Turnaround is 1 to 3 business days after receipt. See full calibration details →
