What is the best way to measure PDL (Mueller matrix 8169A, 11896A) (speed, accuracy)?
There are several different ways to characterize polarization dependent loss (PDL) on a device. The equipment you would want to use depends on the method you prefer.
The Mueller method using the 8169A applys four well-known polarization states to the test device. The optical power transmission is measured at these four states over a predefined wavelength range only and the PDL calculated from those results.
The scanning method using the 11896A uses fiber loops to scan through all states of polarization, at a given wavelength point.
Therefore, if PDL over a wavelength range is of interest, the Mueller method may be the procedure of choice, while for certain wavelength the scanning method may be preferred.