Agilent / HP 8166A Lightwave Mainframe

The Agilent/HP 8166A Lightwave Mainframe is a modular optical test platform that hosts up to 17 optical measurement modules from the 8163A Lightwave Multimeter family. It has synchronized multichannel signal generation and analysis with true synchronous triggering across all channels, enabling parallel testing of complex optical components in research and manufacturing environments.

Technical Specifications

• Module Capacity: 17 slots for 816xxx series modules


• Display: Graphical display, 190 × 300 pixels


• Triggering: True synchronous triggering on all channels with configurable hardware input/output trigger ports


• Power Input: 100–240 VAC ±10%, 50/60 Hz ±5%


• Maximum Power Consumption: 450 VA


• Operating Temperature: 0°C to +45°C


• Storage Temperature: −40°C to +70°C


• Humidity: <95% RH (0°C to 45°C)


• Operating Altitude: ≤2000 m


• Pollution Degree: 2


• Dimensions (H × W × D): 240 mm × 430 mm × 580 mm


• Weight: 23 kg (net); 45 kg (shipping)

Key Features

• Full GPIB interface with SCPI command support for remote instrument control


• Parallel port (Centronics) and serial port (RS232) connectivity


• Firmware upgradeable with high-level API support


• VXIplug&play instrument drivers for LabVIEW and HP VEE integration


• Graphical user interface with immediate control and visual feedback

Typical Applications

• Multichannel optical component characterization and validation


• Parallel testing workflows in manufacturing test environments


• Research and development optical signal generation and measurement


• Complex optical measurement setups requiring synchronized data acquisition

Compatibility & Integration The 8166A accepts all modules from the 8163A Lightwave Multimeter family. It is not compatible with HP 8153A Lightwave Multimeter modules (part numbers <81600). Instrument control is accessible via GPIB, RS232, and Centronics interfaces using SCPI commands.