Types of Optical Fiber Couplers
Single-mode WDMs separate or combine signals at the indicated operating wavelengths. They feature low insertion loss, high return loss and excellent environmental stability & reliability.
The optical coupling ratio determines how much of the input power is coupled to each output port. This parameter is usually wavelength (and often polarization) dependent.
CWDM MUX DEMUX
Coarse wavelength division multiplexing (CWDM) is a type of optical fiber network that uses different transmission wavelengths to carry data. CWDM modules are passive multiplexers and demultiplexers that connect several signals together on one fiber or split them apart. They can also transmit data at two different rates simultaneously. These modules allow networks to expand their capacity without having to install new fibers or switch equipment.
These modules can be used in point-to-point applications or ring applications to 2×2 WDM improve bandwidth and increase capacity in existing networks. Depending on your network requirements, you can choose from dual-fiber or single-fiber CWDM Mux/Demux. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. To determine which one is right for your network, you need to consider your budget and system needs.
Dual-fiber CWDM Mux Demux has both line ports to connect the outside fibers and channel ports for multiplexing and demultiplexing CWDM channels. Unlike the single-fiber CWDM Mux/Demux, the channels on the dual-fiber module use the same wavelength for both TX and RX.
However, if you want to create a bidirectional network between two sites, you need a single-fiber CWDM Mux/Demux. This type of module can be used with two Cisco switches over CWDM C51 wavelength to create a point-to-point connection. Moreover, you can add a 1310nm port to the CWDM Mux/Demux if you need additional monitoring capabilities in your network.
Splice/Pigtailed ABS Modules
An ABS Box PLC Splitter is a single-mode optical signal distribution device with plastic ABS box package, which is widely used in the PON/ODN networks to realize optical power splitting. The device is based on the planar lightwave circuit (PLC) technology to distribute optical signals from central office to multiple premise locations. It is available in a variety of port configuration, fiber length, input connector and output connector.
A Fiber Distribution Unit is a piece of equipment that links feeder cable to drop cable, integrating functions such as fiber fixation, direct splicing, branching, straight-through, splitting and fiber termination in one unit. It consists of an appropriate space allowing for minimum bending radius, a bunch of fiber splice trays, a set of fiber optic adapters and connectors, fiber pigtails, several entrance ports and exit ports, made from PC-ABS materials with IP level at least IP65.
Compared to the connector approach terminal, the splice method provides lower back reflection and allows more cable splices to fit in the same space. Moreover, spliced connections are easier to access for network testing purposes and can be replaced more easily. While connectors have their own efficiencies, splicing remains the preferred method for long-range transmission networks. This is due to the fact that splices have lower joint loss probability, which is essential for maintaining a high quality of the transmission signal.
Fiber Management Couplers
Optical fiber couplers are invaluable in today’s high-speed data-driven world. They play a vital role in telecommunications networks, sensing systems, and medical devices by managing the flow of optical signals across the network. Their value lies in their ability to efficiently distribute optical signals while minimizing loss and ensuring reliable communication. In the future, advancements in optical fiber coupler technology will focus on miniaturization, higher splitting ratios, wider operating bandwidths, and improved fabrication techniques.
Among the different types of optical couplers, two of the most popular are Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) and Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM). Both operate by either combining or splitting wavelength-based optical signals to maximize data transmission efficiency. However, PLC and WDM couplers are designed to work with specific signal wavelengths, making them less compatible with other transmission technologies.
PLC couplers use an optical splitter chip to divide the incoming signal evenly into multiple output ports. They are known for their compact size and versatility, allowing them to be used in many different applications. They also offer low insertion and loss, which means they can handle high-speed optical signals with minimal degradation. Typically, they are used in long-haul telecommunications networks to split signals between central offices and customer premises. However, they are often used in other networks as well, such as for wavelength-based DWDM and WDM telecommunications.
Fused Fiber Couplers
The fused fiber coupler is the most common type of coupler. It combines or separates one or more input fibers to two output ports based on wavelength. It is useful for separating the light pumping an optical amplifier from the amplified signal or combining several wavelengths to a single output port for transmission over long distances.
These couplers are made by thermally fusing and stretching an optical fiber segment so that the cladding modes of two or more different cores overlap for a short length of time. The power distribution of the overlapping cladding modes can be controlled by the thickness of the remaining cladding and the length of the region where the claddings are in close proximity. A portion of the power from the original input fiber will then be coupled into the other cores, and the relative phase of these powers determines which cores recover the coupler’s output.
Fused biconically tapered fiber optic couplers offer many advantages in the DWDM environment. They are extremely durable and require minimal maintenance over their lifetime. They can withstand extreme temperatures, shock and data center vibration, making them ideal for fiber instrument, fiber laser and research applications. Additionally, they provide high IL and low return loss with excellent environmental stability and reliability.
