Keysight / Agilent / HP 83440B DC-6 GHz Lightwave Detector

The Keysight/Agilent/HP 83440B is a DC to 6 GHz lightwave detector that converts modulated optical signals into electrical waveforms for analysis on standard test instruments. Built around a hermetically sealed, unamplified InGaAs photodiode, the 83440B delivers high-fidelity O/E conversion with minimal signal distortion. Its direct-mount probe design connects to instrument front panels via a precision 3.5 mm microwave coaxial connector, eliminating external cable losses and coupling artifacts that degrade measurement accuracy. Engineered for telecommunications component characterization, laser performance validation, and general fiber optic measurements, the 83440B combines fast temporal response with broad bandwidth to capture both pulse shapes and spectral content in a single instrument connection.

Technical Specifications

Bandwidth: 6 GHz (3 dB optical)

Rise/Fall Time (10–90%): <80 ps

Pulse Response (FWHM): 73 ps

System Aberrations (2 ps FWHM pulse): 10% peak-to-peak maximum, 5% typical

DC Responsivity at 1300 nm: 35 V/W minimum (into 50 Ω load)

Deflection Factor at 1300 nm: 29 µW/div (Agilent 54120 family oscilloscope)

Deflection Factor at 1550 nm: 31 µW/div (Agilent 54120 family oscilloscope)

Noise Equivalent Power: 2 µW RMS maximum

Photodiode: Hermetically sealed, unamplified InGaAs

Optical Input: Universal interface, compatible with 9/125 µm fiber

Electrical Output Connector: Precision 3.5 mm microwave coaxial

Key Features

Direct-mount probe eliminates external cabling and connector losses

Low internal distortion preserves signal integrity across the full 6 GHz band

High conversion gain enables use with standard electrical instruments

Fast <80 ps rise/fall time resolves nanosecond and sub-nanosecond optical events

Option 050 includes 50 Ω termination with fourth-order Bessel-Thomson response for SDH/SONET filter compatibility

Typical Applications

Fiber optic telecommunications system characterization

Laser and optical modulator performance optimization

Optical pulse shape and timing analysis

High-speed optical signal spectral measurements

Component testing in optical communication networks

Compatibility & Integration The 83440B connects to the front panel of Agilent/Keysight electrical instruments and oscilloscopes. Its universal optical interface accommodates standard fiber connectors via optional adapters.