The Keysight 81576A is a high-power Variable Optical Attenuator (VOA) module featuring an integrated power sensor, designed for single-mode fiber-optic applications in the 1200 nm to 1700 nm wavelength range. Built for compatibility with Keysight 8163A/B, 8164A/B, and 8166A/B Lightwave mainframes, it delivers precision attenuation control, low polarization dependence, high return loss, and real-time power monitoring for high-power optical component testing.

Specifications

General

ParameterValue
InterfacesControlled through host mainframe (GPIB, LAN, USB depending on mainframe configuration)
DisplayNone (uses host mainframe display)

Physical

ParameterValue
Power SupplyPowered internally by the host mainframe
Operating Temperature0 °C to 40 °C
Dimensions (W×H×D)32 mm × 75 mm × 335 mm
Weight0.6 kg

Optical Performance

ParameterValue
Wavelength Range1200 nm to 1700 nm
Attenuation Range0 dB to 60 dB
Attenuation Resolution0.001 dB
Minimum Insertion Loss≤ 1.4 dB (excluding connectors)
Maximum Input Power+27 dBm
Polarization Dependence Loss≤ 0.05 dB (at 1550 nm)

Power Sensor Performance

ParameterValue
Power Sensor Wavelength Range1200 nm to 1700 nm
Power Sensor Measurement Range-50 dBm to +27 dBm
Power Sensor Uncertainty±0.11 dB (at calibration conditions)

Physical & Mechanical

ParameterValue
Fiber TypeSingle-mode 9/125 µm
Required Mainframe Slots1 slot

System Compatibility

ParameterValue
Compatible MainframesKeysight 8163A/B, 8164A/B, 8166A/B

Performance

ParameterValue
Calibration Wavelengths1310 nm, 1550 nm
Attenuation Accuracy±0.05 dB (0 to 45 dB at calibration wavelengths), ±0.15 dB (45 to 60 dB at calibration wavelengths)
Spectral Ripple< ±0.01 dB (typical, 1520 nm to 1620 nm)
Shutter Isolation> 80 dB

Power Monitor

ParameterValue
Power Sensor Linearity±0.05 dB (+23 dBm to -45 dBm)

Environmental

ParameterValue
Storage Temperature Range-40 °C to +70 °C
Operating Humidity Range15% to 95% R.H. (non-condensing)

Optical Interface

ParameterValue
Connector InterfaceKeysight 81000xI series (requires 2)

Technology

Fiber-optic

Applications

Optical transceiver testing, receiver sensitivity analysis, high-power optical component characterization