Types Of Fiber Optic Attenuators
- Reduce the optical power within a fiber optic link
- Useful in very short fiber links
- Low Back Reflection
- Available in Singlemode & Multimode
An attenuator is a device that is used to reduce signal amplitude by a known amount without introducing distortion. Attenuators are installed in fiber optic systems to keep the power level within the limits of the receiver's detector. When optical power is too great at the receiver, the signal can saturate the detector resulting in a non-communicating port. Attenuators act like sunglasses and block some of the signal to acceptable levels. Attenuators are available in various styles with either fixed or variable attenuation levels.
Attenuator Menu
This attenuator is used with singlemode fiber to reduce the strength of the fiber optic signal. This type of attenuator uses high-precision doping technology for low back reflection and increased fiber signal accuracy. Ideal for use in CATV, LAN, WAN, and telecommunications applications.
This fixed attenuator incorporates a wavelength-sensitive neutral density filter to achieve attenuation. The female-to-female design typical of this type of attenuator enables it to accept standard male fiber optic connectors on each side of the bulkhead. Bulkhead attenuators are ideal for use in fiber optic patch panels, instrument front panels, and other applications that require a fixed level of attenuation and easy connectivity.
This device works by physically bending fiber optic cable via the use of thumbscrews. It can be attached at any point in a cable and leaves no lasting effects on the cable when removed. Since this type of attenuator does not require connectors, it is a great way to achieve attenuation without producing back reflections.
This device creates the desired level of attenuation by creating one, two or three loops or bends in jacketed fiber optic cable. These loops are created by placing the cable into recessed paths molded into the body of the attenuator. The housing includes a slide-on cover that secures the loops in place. You can place this attenuator anywhere along the length of the cable, and the device can be repositioned or removed with no permanent effects on the cable. No connectors are required.
This type of attenuator enables you to achieve a broad range of attenuation levels by adjusting the space or air gap between two mated fibers. You can use this attenuator to a replace a mating sleeve at the patch panel, where variable attenuation levels can be introduced to the system. Air gap fixed attenuators are also available, which use washers of different thickness to achieve attenuation. The washers are typically placed between two mated connectors at the light source.