Agilent / Keysight 83494A Optical clock recovery module

The Agilent/Keysight 83494A Optical Clock Recovery Module is a plug-in module for high-speed digital transmission testing and optical communication system characterization. It derives timing references directly from optical data streams, eliminating the need for separate trigger sources. The module synchronizes to SONET/SDH transmission rates through 10 Gb/s and delivers exceptional jitter performance for precise waveform capture and signal analysis.

Technical Specifications

• Data Rates: 155 Mb/s, 622 Mb/s, 2.488 Gb/s, 9.953 Gb/s, 10.3125 Gb/s, 10.709 Gb/s


• Optical Wavelengths: 1310 nm / 1550 nm (1200–1600 nm operating range)


• Input Power Range: –14 to +3 dBm (≤ 2.488 Gb/s); –8 to +3 dBm (≥ 9.953 Gb/s)


• Maximum Insertion Loss: 1.5 dB


• Fiber Type: Single-mode (9/125 µm)


• PLL Bandwidth: 90 kHz (internal triggering); 4–5 MHz (external output)

Key Features

• Automatic clock recovery from optical signal eliminates external trigger dependencies


• Recovered clock output available at dedicated CLOCK connector for jitter transfer measurements


• Fast jitter tracking enables accurate high-speed signal acquisition


• Data rate selection via SELECT key with green indicator light confirmation


• Trigger On Data bypass mode available for alternate triggering strategies

Typical Applications

• SONET/SDH optical link characterization and validation


• High-speed digital transmission testing to 10 Gb/s


• Jitter analysis and measurement in optical communication systems


• Waveform capture and timing reference derivation from live data streams

Compatibility & Integration Inserts into Agilent 86100A/B, 86100C, and 86100D Infiniium DCA mainframes, as well as the 83480A Digital Communications Analyzer and 54750A digitizing oscilloscope.