HP / Agilent 81649A Compact Tunable,1570nm to 1620nm

The HP/Agilent 81649A is a compact L-band tunable laser source spanning 1570 nm to 1620 nm, purpose-built for DWDM component and system characterization. Operating as a plug-in module for Agilent's 8163A/B, 8164A/B, and 8166A/B mainframes, it delivers mode-hop-free tuning with continuous output power during wavelength transitions. The instrument excels at characterizing optical amplifiers and DWDM components across installation and maintenance workflows.

Technical Specifications

• Wavelength Range: 1570 nm to 1620 nm


• Output Power: ≥ 6 dBm typical; minimum −3 dBm


• Power Stability: ±0.015 dB over 1 hour at constant temperature; typically ±0.0075 dB over 1 hour; typically ±0.025 dB over 1 minute


• Wavelength Resolution: 0.01 nm (1.25 GHz equivalent at 1600 nm)


• Wavelength Accuracy: ±0.3 nm absolute; ±0.15 nm relative


• Wavelength Repeatability: ±0.05 nm


• Wavelength Stability: ±0.01 nm typical over 24 hours at constant temperature


• Spectral Linewidth: 20 MHz


• Tuning Speed: < 10 seconds per 50 nm


• Fiber Output Options: Standard single-mode (Option 022) or Panda polarization-maintaining (Options 071, 072)


• Digital Modulation (External): 45% duty cycle, fall time 45% duty cycle at 300 kHz to 1 MHz


• Laser Classification: Class IIIb (FDA 21 CFR 1040.10); Class 3A (IEC 825-1:1993)


• Storage/Shipping Temperature: −20°C to +70°C; −40°C to +70°C (81649A)


• External Voltage (BNC): ±6 V absolute maximum

Key Features

• Continuous optical output during tuning eliminates dead zones


• Absolute wavelength accuracy of ±0.3 nm supports precise DWDM grid alignment


• TTL modulation inputs and reference outputs via mainframe interface


• Dual fiber output configurations address standard and polarization-sensitive applications


• Recommended recalibration interval: 2 years

Compatibility & Integration The 81649A integrates directly with Agilent 8163A/B Lightwave Multimeters, 8164A/B Lightwave Measurement Systems, and 8166A/B Lightwave Multichannel Systems, enabling flexible single-source or multi-channel test configurations for DWDM transmission environments.