HP / Agilent 8168E 1475-1575nm Tunable Laser Source (TLS)

The HP/Agilent 8168E is a tunable laser source (TLS) engineered for precision characterization of optical components across the C-band and L-band regions. Operating from 1475 nm to 1575 nm with 0.001 nm resolution and ±0.035 nm accuracy, it delivers stable, low-noise output power ranging from -7 dBm to greater than +1 dBm typical. The instrument provides independent control of wavelength and output power, with wavelength stability better than ±100 MHz and output power stability of ±0.03 dB. A built-in sidemode filter ensures true single-mode operation across the full tuning range, with spectral linewidth of 100 kHz (coherent control OFF) or 50–500 MHz (coherent control ON). Side mode suppression ratio exceeds 40 dB. The 8168E integrates with the Agilent 8164A Lightwave Measurement System via HP-IB/GPIB interface and supports independent parameter adjustment through its user-friendly control panel. Auto-realignment and self-test functions streamline operation and maintenance.

Technical Specifications

Wavelength range: 1475–1575 nm

Wavelength resolution: 0.001 nm at 1550 nm

Wavelength accuracy: ±0.035 nm or ±0.1 nm

Wavelength stability: +1 dBm (typical)

Output power stability: ±0.03 dB

Spectral linewidth: 100 kHz typical (coherent control OFF); 50–500 MHz typical (coherent control ON, 1500–1570 nm)

Side mode suppression ratio: > 40 dB

Fiber output: 9/125 µm single-mode fiber with integrated sidemode filter

Interface: HP-IB/GPIB

Power input: 100–240 Vrms ±10%, 260 VA maximum

Operating temperature: 10 °C to 35 °C

Storage temperature: -40 °C to +70 °C

Dimensions: 145 mm H × 426 mm W × 545 mm D

Weight: 18 kg net (21 kg shipping)

Laser classification: Class 1 (FDA 21 CFR 1040.10); Class 3A (IEC 825-1, 1993)

Key Features

Independent wavelength and power control

Built-in sidemode filter for true single-mode output

Auto-realignment and self-test capabilities

Polarization-maintaining fiber option (Option 007)

Built-in optical attenuator option (Option 003, 40 dB attenuation)

Multiple connector options (straight contact, angled contact, non-contact)

Typical Applications

Optical component characterization and testing

Telecommunications system calibration

Optical networking component validation

Wavelength-dependent loss and return loss measurements

Compatibility & Integration Operate within the Agilent 8164A Lightwave Measurement System. Integration with HP 8153A Lightwave Multimeter enables loss, return loss, and coupling ratio measurements. Agilent 81000xI Series optical interface connectors available separately.