Purchasing Resources for Fiber Optic Attenuators

Fiber optic attenuators are used to control or reduce the power level of optical signals. Wrapping and bending fiber optic cables can also reduce the signal strength but can cause the fibers to stress and break. Attenuators provide the signal reduction needed without damage to the optical fibers.

There are two types of attenuators. Fixed value attenuators are used in CATV, LAN and telecommunication systems. Their filtering value is a fixed decibel amount and reduces the output intensity. Optical attenuators operate on a specific wavelength.

Variable attenuators are most often used for measurement and testing. These attenuators can be continuously variable or step variable. Variable attenuators can use acoustic-optic, thermo-optic or electro-optic material to control attenuation. Manually controlled variable attenuators are useful for initial set-up but function like fixed attenuators.

Response speed with attenuation is critical. The slightest delay in receiving a transmission can cause the loss of large quantities of data. Fiber optic attenuators must be able to reduce the power levels while still allowing full transmission speed. Instrument calibration is also important when working with attenuators. Basic calibration devices should have numerous calibration points for both wavelengths and power levels.

Let Business.com help you in purchasing the correct type of fiber optic attenuators and calibration equipment for your fiber optic needs.