Variable Optical Attenuator

A wideband variable optical attenuator offers low insertion loss, good thermal stability, and an environmentally robust package. The MultClad Variable Optical Attenuator includes no free space optical elements, such as lenses or mirrors.

The device provides optical signal amplitude attenuation over a wide spectral range by electrical activation of a stepper motor, and a step-down gear head via a defined electrical interface. Avoiding free space optics or collimators also improves system efficiency and stability. An optical monitor port allows designers to avoid the signal loss and expense associated with additional splitters. A latching mechanism maintains the output signal even with power loss. The interface uses a four-lead design allowing for incremental and reset commands at TTL voltages.

The attenuator can be used in long haul and metropolitan networks. Current applications for these devices include amplifier tilt control, channel equalization, and optical signal attenuation.

Corning Inc., Photonic Technologies Div., Corning, NY 14831. Phone: 800-525-2524; Fax: 607-974-4794.