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The Agilent 86120C is a Michelson‑interferometer based multi‑wavelength meter for precise wavelength and optical‑power measurements across telecom bands; it resolves multiple simultaneous laser lines, assumes ≤5 GHz linewidth per line, and is specified after 15 minutes warm‑up

Quick technical snapshot

Instrument type: Multi‑wavelength meter (Michelson interferometer).
Primary functions: Absolute wavelength, differential wavelength, optical power measurement and simultaneous multi‑line analysis (DWDM, Fabry‑Perot).
Linewidth assumption (per laser line): ≤5 GHz for the 86120C (affects accuracy/resolution).
Warm‑up requirement: Specifications valid after 15 minutes continuous operation.

Key specifications (concise table)

Parameter	Value (typical / spec)	Notes
Wavelength measurement	Absolute and differential	Measures wavelength and wavelength differences simultaneously.
Linewidth assumption	≤5 GHz	Limits guaranteed performance for 86120C.
Minimum resolvable separation	Instrument dependent (see OE sheet)	Two lines closer than this are not resolved; displayed as average.
Power measurement	Calibrated optical power; sensitivity defined	Power calibration accuracy, flatness, linearity and polarization dependence specified in OE sheet.
Calibration cycle / warranty	Recalibration recommended every 2 years; 3‑year warranty	Built‑in reference laser lifetime extended; warranty covers opto‑mechanical/electronic parts.

Measurement behavior and operating notes

Simultaneous multi‑line capability: The 86120C can measure multiple laser lines at once (useful for DWDM and multi‑mode lasers); minimum resolvable separation and display resolution determine whether closely spaced lines are shown separately or averaged.
Accuracy definitions: Absolute accuracy = maximum wavelength error over environmental range; differential accuracy = max error when measuring wavelength differences between simultaneously present signals.
Power specs: The OE sheet lists power calibration accuracy, flatness across wavelength, linearity, and polarization dependence; sensitivity is defined as the minimum power for accurate wavelength and power measurement.