Agilent/Keysight E5970A

The Agilent/Keysight E5970A is a handheld optical power meter for fiber optic network installation and maintenance. This compact, battery-powered instrument measures optical power across a broad wavelength range and delivers measurement uncertainty of ±5% or ±5 nW. The meter supports relative power measurements with user-adjustable reference values, factory calibration at four standard telecom wavelengths, and compatibility with single-mode and multimode fiber connectors.

Technical Specifications

• Wavelength Range: 800 to 1600 nm


• Optical Power Range: -70 to +11 dBm


• Measurement Units: dBm or W


• Calibrated Wavelengths: 850 nm, 1300 nm, 1310 nm, 1550 nm


• Fiber Type Compatibility: 9/125 µm to 50/125 µm


• Total Uncertainty: ±5% or ±5 nW


• Auto-Off: Approximately 20 minutes (user-selectable)


• Zeroing: Automatic calibration at power-on (≈20 seconds) and during operation (≈10 minute intervals)


• Relative Power Mode: Presettable reference from +30 to -80 dBm

Key Features

• Battery operation using two AA cells (alkaline 1.5V or NiCd 1.2V)


• Optical connector adapters for FC, SC, and SMA interfaces


• Compact dimensions: 95 mm (W) × 49 mm (H) × 195 mm (D)


• Weight: Approximately 500 g with batteries and adapter


• Operating temperature range: -10 to +55°C


• Storage temperature range: -40 to +70°C


• Non-condensing humidity operation

Typical Applications Fiber optic link power measurement during installation, commissioning, and field maintenance. Relative power measurements for loss budgeting and troubleshooting. Multimode and single-mode fiber characterization.

Compatibility & Integration Optical connectors include FC, SC, and SMA adapters. Recalibration interval: 2 years. Meets EN 50081-1 and EN 50082-1 electromagnetic compatibility standards.