Fixed Optical Attenuators – 130dB
Optical attenuators are passive devices that reduce the power level of optical signals. They are used to prevent excessive signal levels from saturating receivers and can be found in single-mode long-haul applications, CWDM&DWDM systems and CATV systems.
Depending on the application, these devices can be either manual or motorized. Motorized attenuators provide a productivity advantage to regular users by automating commonly-used test sequences.
F-ADAT Series Adaptor Type Attenuators
Fiber optic attenuators reduce the power of optical signals by a pre-determined amount. They are used to prevent too much light from saturating an optical receiver and are essential for singlemode applications. They also help to ensure low bit error rates preventing damage to equipment.
Optical attenuators can be either fixed or variable. The former have a pre-determined optical power reduction number, while the latter allows you to change their attenuation level by turning a screw on the back of the device.
Both types of attenuators are ideal for many CATV applications, such as extending distances for high definition TV, or providing more headroom for analog line inputs. They are also ideal for testing the power levels of a fiber system. You can use them to temporarily add a calibrated amount of signal loss to test the power level margins of the system. Alternatively, you can install them permanently in the fiber optical link to correctly match transmitter and receiver optical power levels. We carry a wide variety of fixed attenuators in both LC, FC, SC, and ST connectors.
F-FIA Series In-Line Fiber Attenuators
For singlemode applications, a fixed attenuator reduces the optical power to avoid over-saturating an optical receiver. This prevents bit error rates and damage to the receiving fiber optic equipment. The attenuator consists of a short piece of singlemode fiber with metal ion doping to provide the fixed-fiber-optic-attenuators-130db specified attenuation. It is available in two types: in-line or connector type, both of which mate with standard fiber cable connectors.
Most of the attenuators work on the same principle: the attenuator contains an air gap (possibly adjustable in width) between two fiber ends, which allows only a small fraction of light to leave the input fiber. The attenuator should be precisely adjustable over a wide range, stay stable over time and have negligible dependence on wavelength and polarization.
The most common type of attenuator is the male to female plug-style attenuator. These fit into the female end of a standard patch cable and can be plugged into an optical power meter. The nut in the middle of the device can be turned to adjust the attenuation level. This type of attenuator is commonly used to test the power level margins of a fiber system.
DB Attenuation Levels
Decibels (dB) are a unit of measurement used to express ratios. They are commonly used to describe attenuation, crosstalk and return loss. In general, you want lower dB attenuation levels because this means less signal is lost on the way to the receiver. Similarly, you want higher dB return loss and crosstalk levels because this indicates less of a signal is being measured on neighboring wires.
In fiber optics, attenuation is the reduction of an optical power signal. The most common attenuator application is to temporarily add a calibrated amount of power level loss in order to test the power level margins of a fiber optic communication system.
Attenuation is also important in telecommunications and ultrasound applications. It is the horizontal-type-optical-fiber-splice-closure decrease in sound pressure level over distance that is a function of the inverse square law. This can be caused by refraction of the wave in different media, or by transmission through various materials. For example, when seismic waves travel through the earth they are attenuated as they move away from the source. Likewise, when light passes through a medium like air, wood or concrete it is attenuated.
Durable Construction
Durability is a key consideration for builders as it ensures that the materials used in construction can withstand the test of time. It is not just about materials, however, as building design can also have an impact on durability. For instance, a design that makes it difficult to access parts of the structure may lead to premature deterioration even when high-quality materials are used.
Builders also appreciate the fact that durable construction materials reduce maintenance costs by offering lasting solutions to common problems. Durability is also a central consideration in sustainability practices as long-lasting structures reduce waste disposal and consumption of natural resources. A longer lifecycle also cuts down on demolition and reconstruction, which accounts for more than a third of all landfill waste worldwide. This is particularly important as the construction industry uses a significant amount of energy and natural resources. Durability is a key component of the LEED rating system, and the Canadian adaptation includes one point for preparing and implementing a building durability plan.
Commercial Grade
Buying commercial-grade products can help you save money in the long run. They are made to be used repeatedly and can manage the wear and tear of constant handling. Moreover, they often come with warranties that are much longer than those of consumer-grade items.
Optical attenuators are passive devices that reduce the intensity of an optical signal by reducing the output power or transmission speed. They can be fixed or variable, and they can work on a variety of wavelengths. They can be found in telecommunication networks, test equipment, local area network (LAN), and cable television (CATV) systems.
A fixed fiber attenuator has a fixed attenuation power, whereas variable attenuators have adjustable attenuation levels. Some variable attenuators even have a fine resolution of 0.1dB or 0.01dB. Most of these attenuators are built with a male connector on one end and a female connector on the other, allowing you to easily place them in the optical path. They can be designed with ST, SC, LC, MU, and FC interface types. They can also be customized for various working wavelengths and attenuation levels.
