Fiber Optics - Attenuators

Fiber optic attenuators, also referred to as optical attenuators, are passive optoelectronics used to minimise the power level of optical signals. To prevent the fiber optic receiver from becoming saturated by excessive light, optical attenuators are employed to reduce light intensity and guarantee optimal system performance. They efficiently reduce the power level of an optical signal travelling through a fiber optic cable. Such attenuators are essential for avoiding signal distortion or overloading at the receiver’s side to confirm the optimal performance and dependability of the fiber optic communication system. They maintain complete control over signal integrity, which makes them must-have components for high-power networks, test environments, and applications requiring calibrated optical signal levels. 

Popular Fiber Optics Attenuator Types

Modern attenuators are available in two primary types such as:

• Fixed Attenuators: Fixed attenuators provide a consistent level of attenuation. They come in various attenuation values like 3 dB, 6dB, and 10 dB.
• Variable Attenuators enable adjustable levels of attenuation. This flexibility is helpful in applications where the signal level must be dynamically managed.

What are the Possible Advantages of Using Our High-strength Fiber Optics – Attenuators?

• Power Absorption: Several materials within the attenuator absorb a fraction of the optical power and convert it into heat.
• Minimising Signal Strength: Intentionally introduces loss to the optical route to diminish the strength of the transmitted light.
• Low Insertion Loss: Comes equipped with low insertion loss, reducing signal degradation beyond the desired attenuation.  
• High Accuracy: Provide precise and repeatable attenuation levels.
• Compact and Durable: They are typically small but robust and are suitable for various hi-stake applications.

Why Do We Need to Use Fiber Optics – Attenuators?

Fiber optic attenuators are a must-have because they manage several critical aspects of a fiber optic network, including:

• Receiver Safety: If a strong optical signal enters a receiver, it overloads the receiver, which results in distortion and errors and can even damage the receiver. 
• Signal Level Compatibility: In some scenarios, the transmitter's power output may be too high for the specific receiver. Attenuators precisely adjust the signal level to match the receiver's requirements.  
• Test & Measurements: Attenuators are essential components for testing and measuring the performance of fiber optic systems. 

Application Information of Fiber Optics - Attenuators

Fiber optic attenuators find extensive use across various applications within the field of fiber optic communications, such as:

• Receiver Protection: Protect sensitive receivers from damage caused by excessive optical power.
• Signal Level Control: In high-speed data centres, they help to manage signal levels within acceptable limits for high-performance optical transceivers.
• Testing & Troubleshooting: Employed in testing and troubleshooting fiber optic links within data centres to identify and diagnose issues.
• Signal Level Adjustment: Utilised to adjust signal levels for different subscribers, ensuring the signal levels remain within acceptable limits for proper reception.
• Calibration: Essential for calibrating optical power meters and other test equipment used in fiber optic systems.
• System Characterisation: Used to characterise the functionality of fiber optic components and systems by presenting known levels of attenuation.