Optical communications research and technology: Fiber optics

The current state of the art of fiber optics components is reviewed and projected uses of fiber optical technology are detailed. A brief discussion is presented describing the fundamentals of light guiding and the factors which affect the performance of light guides. Current fiber Optics capabilities in terms of attenuation, information capacity, fiber strength and fabrication are discussed. The status of optical cables, sources, detectors, and couplers is presented, and proposed and demonstrated systems are described. Trends in the development of fiber optics are outlined, and discussion and comparisons are given with other technologies which indicate the economic and technical viability of fiber optics. Concluding remarks summarize the technology status and indicate where the technology is expected to find application.