Specifications and Regulatory Information

Definition of Terms

Definition of Terms

Wavelength

Range refers to the allowable wavelength range of the optical input signal.

 

Absolute accuracy indicates the maximum wavelength error over the allowed

 

environmental conditions. The wavelength accuracy is based on fundamental

 

physical constants, which are absolute standards not requiring traceability to

 

artifacts kept at national standards laboratories. Two He-Ne gas lasers are

 

used. First, there is an internal 632.991 nm-vacuum (473.6127 THz) reference

 

laser1. To verify absolute wavelength accuracy, an external laser is measured

 

during manufacturing at 1523.488 nm, or 196.7804 THz2.

 

Differential Accuracy indicates the maximum wavelength error in measuring

 

the wavelength difference between two signals that are simultaneously

 

present.

 

Minimum Resolvable Separation indicates the minimum wavelength separa-

 

tion of two laser lines required to measure each wavelength simultaneously.

 

Two laser lines closer in wavelength than the minimum resolvable separation

 

are not resolved and one average wavelength is displayed.

 

Display Resolution indicates the minimum incremental change in displayed

 

wavelength.

Amplitude

Calibration Accuracy indicates the maximum power calibration error at the

 

specified wavelengths over the allowed environmental conditions. The ampli-

 

tude calibration accuracy is traceable to a National Institute of Standards and

 

Technology (NIST) calibrated optical power meter. NIST is the national stan-

 

dards laboratory of the United States.

 

Flatness refers to the maximum amplitude error in a measurement between

 

two lines that are separated in wavelength by no more than the specified

 

amount.

 

Linearity indicates the maximum power error in measuring the change in power

1.Obarski, G. E. 1990. “Wavelength Measurement System for Optical Fiber Communications” NIST Technical Note 1336 (February): 18. Take the average of the two frequencies straddling gain center.

2.D. A. Jennings, F. R. Peterson, and K. M. Evenson. 1979. “Frequency measurement of the 260-THz (1.15 micron) He-Ne laser” Optics Letters Vol. 4, No. 5 (May): 129-130.

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Agilent Technologies Agilent 86120C manual Definition of Terms, Wavelength, Amplitude

Agilent 86120C specifications

Agilent Technologies is renowned for its innovative solutions in the field of electronic measurement and test instrumentation. Among its extensive portfolio, the Agilent 86120C stands out as a high-performance optical sampling oscilloscope designed for advanced optical communication system testing and development.

One of the key features of the Agilent 86120C is its ability to perform high-speed digital modulation analysis. With a bandwidth of up to 20 GHz, it supports a wide range of optical signals, making it ideal for testing and characterizing various optical components and systems. The device is capable of analyzing multiple modulation formats, including pulse amplitude modulation (PAM-4), making it a critical tool for engineers working on next-generation data transport technologies.

Another outstanding characteristic of the Agilent 86120C is its sophisticated optical performance monitoring capabilities. It employs advanced algorithms and techniques to provide real-time assessment of signal integrity. The oscilloscope can measure parameters such as eye diagrams, jitter, and signal-to-noise ratios, which are crucial for ensuring the reliability and performance of optical communication links.

Incorporating cutting-edge technologies, the Agilent 86120C features a high-sensitivity photodetector optimized for low-light detection and high-speed applications. This allows users to accurately capture and analyze signals, even when working with low-power transmission systems. The oscilloscope also supports multiple input channels, enabling simultaneous testing of multiple wavelengths or different signal paths.

User-friendly software is another highlight of the Agilent 86120C. The intuitive interface streamlines the measurement process and provides comprehensive data analysis tools. Users can quickly generate reports, conduct statistical analysis, and visualize data in various formats to enhance their understanding of signal behavior.

Additionally, the Agilent 86120C is equipped with connectivity options for seamless integration into larger test setups. It can easily interface with other Agilent test instruments, PCs, and networked environments, allowing engineers to create a comprehensive testing environment tailored to their specific needs.

In conclusion, the Agilent 86120C optical sampling oscilloscope combines high performance, advanced features, and cutting-edge technologies to meet the demanding requirements of optical communication testing. Its versatility makes it an essential tool for engineers working in the rapidly evolving field of data communications.