Fiber optic attenuators can be found in a variety of types. There are numerous types of optical attenuators available on the market. They can be classified in different ways, including the connector type, kind of cable, and other factors. We generally classify them into two groups Fixed optical attenuators (FOA) and optical variable attenuators (VOA). In relation to the various types of cables, they are divided into different modes such as multi-mode or mono-mode attenuators.
Fixed Optic Attenuator
Fixed attenuator, as the name implies clearly, offers an invariable amount of attenuation inside optical fiber. It is possible to express it in decibels typically between 1dB to 30dB. This could be 1dB, 5dB or 10dB, and so on. Fixed optic attenuators can utilize a variety of theories to accomplish their tasks. The most widely used optical attenuators generally use doped fibers , misaligned splices, or even total power. Attenuators that are not preferred typically use the concept of reflection and gap loss.
As shown in the picture below, fixed-value amplifiers consist of connector types and inline type. In-line is an ordinary fiber patch cable. The fiber optic attenuators are integrated into patch cables. Connector-type attenuators look like that of the bulkhead fibre connector. It usually comes with a male plug connector at one end, allowing the fiber attenuators connect directly to adapters or receivers within the patch panel. There is an adapter for female fiber optics which permits the patch cords can be joined to. There are female optical attenuators which can be used as adapters or attenuators in tandem. Their applications include optical fiber testing equipment, Local Area Network (LAN) and CATV systems.
Optic Variable Attenuator
Optic variable attenuator, commonly called an optical variable attenuator (VOA) typically uses an adjustable neutral density. VOA is used for measurement and testing. It can, however, be typically be used the Erbium Doped fiber amplifiers (EDFA) to even out the intensity of light across multiple channels. It is stable with wavelength and frequency sensitive as well as mode-insensitive giving a broad dynamic range.
In the simplest sense there are two types of optical variable attenuators , which can be described as stepwise attenuators. Attenuators with a stepwise design can change the amount of attenuation using common steps, for example, 0.1dB, 0.5dB or 1dB. Attenuators that can be continuously adjusted offer a precise level of attenuation by an adjustable adjustment. This allows operators alter the settings of the attenuator in order to adapt to the needs of changing quickly and accurately without disrupting the system.
Monomode as well as Multimode Monomode and Multimode Fiber Optic Attenuator
Since fiber optic attenuators be used with two kinds of fiber cables Multimode and single Mode optical attenuators can be classified as multimode or single mode. Attenuators made from fiber optics are usually used for single-mode long-haul applications. This is the reason why the most well-known model is also a single-mode type. While fiber optic attenuators are typically used in a single method of operation they also have multi-mode attenuators available for fiber optics that can be connected to a multimode fiber cables. When choosing a type that includes optical attenuators, over others, it’s important to consider the range of attenuation, and also the wavelength.
4. When should you utilize the fiber optic attenuators?
If you’re considering whether you should use fiber optic attenuators inside your device, you’ll generally come across two scenarios where you’ll need the attenuators to be used that are designed for use with fiber optics.
- An example of this is where fiber optic attenuators are used to lower the power of the receiver. In some cases, signals that reach the receiver become too strong and may cause interference to the receiver’s components. The receiver’s power is influenced by two components that transmits the signal into the fiber and the power that is lost through the amplifier. Too much receiver powercan cause by the mismatch between the transmitters/receivers. This could lead to the usage of media converters that were designed to cover a greater distance. In this scenario, optical attenuators were positioned in the link fiber reduce the strength of the signal. This will ensure that the strength of the signal is consistent with.
- Another instance is when attenuators are used to measure the margins in power output. When the transmitter is switched on, it is using a fiber-optic power meter. It also sets the system’s working wavelength An attenuator may be used to determine the power of the system.
5. How can I use Fiber Optic Attenuators to Data Link?
Single-mode system, specifically in the analog CATV systems. The primary aspect that determines the right amount of loss will be the reflection, or return loss. A variety of types that utilize optical attenuators (especially those with gap loss) have the disadvantage of the high reflectance. In turn, they may negatively impact transmitters, as do connectors that have high reflectance. Read more.