Making Measurements

Measuring Signal-to-Noise Ratios with Averaging

averages taken so far. The maximum number of averages is 900, the minimum number of averages is 10, and the default (Preset) value is 100 averages. A measurement with 100 averages takes about 2 minutes to complete. When the measurement is complete, the instrument switches to single measurement mode. Then, pressing the Cont key will start a completely new measurement. During a measurement and before the number of averages has been reached, pressing the Single key will stop the measurement. Then, pressing the Cont key will con- tinue with the current measurement.

While making a signal- to- noise with averaging measurement, the num- ber of averages can be changed. As long as the new number of aver- ages is greater than the number of averages taken so far, the measurement continues. If the new number of averages selected is less than the number of averages taken so far, the measurement stops and the instrument switches to single measurement mode. Then, pressing the Cont key will start a completely new measurement.

Noise bandwidth When measuring noise power, the Agilent 86120C must account for the

affectsnoise bandwidth used during the measurement. Because noise band-

measurement width varies with measurement bandwidth (a wide bandwidth allows more noise to the Agilent 86120C’s detector than a narrow bandwidth), the Agilent 86120C normalizes all noise power measurements to a bandwidth of 0.1 nm. The annotation 0.10 nm is displayed to show that the noise bandwidth is being normalized to a 0.1 nm bandwidth.

To measure signal- to- noise with averaging

1Press the front panel Preset key.

2Press List by WL or List by Power.

3Press Appl's and then S/N AVG.

4To change the number of averages, press NUM AVG. The default (Preset) value is 100.

5To stop the measurement at the current number of averages shown, press the Single key. Then press the Cont key to continue the present measurement.

6When the measurement is complete, the instrument will switch to the single measurement mode and stop.

7To make a new measurement, press the Cont key.

8To exit, press the EXIT softkey, then press the Cont key for continuous measurement.

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Agilent Technologies Agilent 86120C manual To measure signal- to- noise with averaging, Press List by WL or List by Power
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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.
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