Oplink Communications, Inc. (Nasdaq: OPLK), a designer and manufacturer of innovative optical components and integrated modules, has introduced a new line of variable optical attenuators (VOAs) for use in optical communications systems.
Optical attenuators are essential for adjusting imbalances in optical power distribution across different wavelengths. Optical amplifiers, for example, increase signal strength by different amounts at different wavelengths. An optical attenuator is used to decrease the amplitude of optical signals by precise amounts before or after amplification. Oplink's VOAs offer excellent precision and repeatability. A broad range of wavelengths (e.g., an entire band) can be attenuated from 0.2 dB to as much as 30 dB. Oplink's VOAs are available for attenuation of all optical wavelengths in the C, L and S bands.
The functionality of the new VOAs from Oplink is based on opto-mechanical principles. A stepper motor moves a graduated dielectric thin film optical filter into the path of the optical signal, attenuating a portion of the signal. Once the filter position is set, the VOA does not consume power or add heat to the system, an important advantage in optical systems where temperature fluctuations must be carefully controlled.
The variable optical attenuators are available for order immediately.
About Oplink Communications:
Oplink designs, manufactures and markets fiber optic networking components and integrated optical modules that expand optical bandwidth, amplify optical signals, monitor and protect wavelength performance and redirect light signals within an optical network. For more information, visit www.oplink.com.