The Keysight (Agilent) 86142B is a benchtop optical spectrum analyzer designed for high‑accuracy WDM component and system characterization. It provides 10 pm wavelength accuracy and covers the S, C, and L wavelength bands, with low polarization dependency and high dynamic range.

Specifications

General

ParameterValue
InterfacesGPIB (IEEE‑488.2)

Resolution and Filters

ParameterValue
Resolution BandwidthsMultiple selectable optical RBWs

Measurement and Analysis Functions

ParameterValue
Channel/ITU Grid SupportITU‑T grid support for WDM channel analysis
Channel Power MeasurementSupported
Peak SearchAutomatic peak search and multi‑peak find
MarkersMultiple markers with delta and marker table
Limit LinesLimit lines with pass/fail testing
Trace MathReference trace, normalization, max hold, min hold, trace averaging
Reference Trace ManagementStore/recall reference for normalization/limit testing

Sweep and Span

ParameterValue
Sweep ModesContinuous/repeat and single sweep modes
Auto Sweep TimeAutomatic sweep‑time selection available
Start/Stop/Center/SpanDirect wavelength start/stop, center, and span entry

Display and User Interface

ParameterValue
Number of Traces DisplayedMultiple simultaneous traces (e.g., live, max hold, average, reference)
Graticule/Display FeaturesGraphical spectrum display with on‑screen readouts and softkeys
Hardcopy/Screen CaptureFront‑panel hardcopy/screen capture to external media or printer
Application ShortcutsFront‑panel keys/softkeys to launch measurement apps

Connectivity and Remote Control

ParameterValue
Remote ProgrammingSCPI command set over GPIB

Data Storage and File Management

ParameterValue
Instrument StatesSave/recall of instrument states and trace data
Removable Media SupportRemovable media storage supported (e.g., floppy)
Trace/Data File FormatsInstrument-native trace/state formats; export of measurement results

Service and Support

ParameterValue
Self‑Test DiagnosticsPower‑on self‑test and diagnostics
Built‑In HelpContext‑sensitive on‑instrument help

Optical Interfaces

ParameterValue
Optical Input PortsFront‑panel optical input
Input Fiber TypeOptimized for single‑mode fiber
Interchangeable Connector AdaptersSupported (e.g., FC/PC, SC/PC, ST/PC)

Applications

WDM component and system test where wavelength/power accuracy, dynamic range, and low polarization dependency are critical.