HP / Agilent 81561A Variable Optical Attenuator
The HP/Agilent 81561A is a variable optical attenuator designed for precise control of optical power levels. It features a wide attenuation range, low insertion loss, and excellent repeatability, making it suitable for various applications in fiber optic communication systems and optical testing.
- Model
- HP / Agilent 81561A
- Calibration
- Available on request
- Price
- $3,042
- Status
- In stock
- RFQ ref
- 81561A
This unit
The HP/Agilent 81561A is a variable optical attenuator plug-in module for the Lightwave Multichannel Platform series. It delivers precise attenuation control from 0 to 60 dB with 0.001 dB resolution across the 1200 nm to 1700 nm wavelength range, supporting single-mode fiber testing and optical power management in telecommunications applications.
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 single-mode (SMF28)
Insertion Loss: Typically 1.7 dB
Return Loss: Typically 60 dB
Maximum Input Power: +22 dBm
Polarization Dependent Loss: <0.05 dBpp
Settling Time: Typically 100 ms
Shutter Isolation: Typically 100 dB
Dimensions: 75 mm × 32 mm × 335 mm
Weight: 0.9 kg
Key Features
Integrated shutter for channel drop simulation and optical protection
Automatic wavelength correction applied upon wavelength entry
User calibration capability with relative attenuation display against reference power
Angled fiber connector interfaces (connectors sold separately)
Typical Applications
Telecommunications system testing and validation
Optical power level control and measurement
Single-mode fiber characterization
Channel attenuation simulation in multichannel optical systems
Compatibility & Integration The 81561A occupies a single slot in Agilent's Lightwave Multichannel Platform 8163A/B, 8164A/B, and 8166A/B series. Two angled fiber connector interfaces are required; each connector must be purchased separately.
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Range (dBm) | '+22 dBm (maximum input) | Wavelength Range: 1200 nm to 1700 nm |
HP / Agilent 81561A — Repair & Calibration Service
Aumictech offers NIST-traceable calibration and repair for the HP / Agilent 81561A. 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 81561A 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 81561A price
This HP / Agilent 81561A is listed at $3,041.8. Calibration is available separately from $450. Contact us for volume pricing or if you need multiple units.
HP / Agilent 81561A calibration cost
NIST-traceable calibration for the HP / Agilent 81561A 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 →
