Low-reflectivity in-line variable attenuator utilizing optical fiber tapers

Author

Benner, A. ; Presby, H.M. ; Amitay, N.

Author_Institution

AT&T Bell Lab., Holmdel, NJ, USA

Volume

8

Issue

1

fYear

1990

fDate

1/1/1990 12:00:00 AM

Firstpage

7

Lastpage

10

Abstract

A single-mode inline variable optical attenuator utilizing optical fiber tapers is discussed. Optical attenuation control is achieved through axial separation between two tapers with beveled endfaces aligned within a ceramic sleeve. Increased axial separation causes increased coupling loss between the two taper fundamental modes. Insertion loss of <0.5 dB, attenuation of >75 dB with continuous 0.05 dB resolution, and reflection return loss of better than 58 dB have been realized. Theoretical studies indicate low polarization and wavelength dependence, and inherent insertion loss of <0.1 dB. This design also exhibits simplicity of fabrication

Keywords

fibre optics; light polarisation; light reflection; optical losses; reflectivity; waveguide attenuators; 0.1 dB; 0.5 dB; 58 dB; attenuation control; axial separation; beveled endfaces; ceramic sleeve; coupling loss; in-line variable attenuator; inherent insertion loss; insertion losses; low polarization; low-reflectivity attenuator; optical fiber tapers; reflection return loss; single-mode inline variable optical attenuator; taper fundamental modes; wavelength dependence; Ceramics; Fabrication; Insertion loss; Optical attenuators; Optical control; Optical fibers; Optical losses; Optical reflection; Optical variables control; Polarization;

fLanguage

English

Journal_Title

Lightwave Technology, Journal of

Publisher

ieee

ISSN

0733-8724

Type

jour

DOI

10.1109/50.45922

Filename

45922