Karl J Jalbert

US Patent:

55816495, Dec 3, 1996

Filed:

Apr 28, 1995

Appl. No.:

8/430611

Inventors:

Stanley V. Paquette - Dracut MA
Karl J. Jalbert - Amesbury MA
Thomas E. Simmons - Milford NH
Michael S. Beard - Nashua NH
Deborah L. St. Armand - Tyngsborough MA

Assignee:

The Whitaker Corporation - Wilmington DE

International Classification:

G02B 626

US Classification:

385140

Abstract:

A fiber optic attenuator having a predetermined, fixed attenuation value and low back reflection properties across a broad wavelength spectrum is disclosed. Attenuation is achieved by providing an optical fiber pathway having an attenuation region which causes a predetermined signal loss. The medium defining the pathway is of a substantially constant index of refraction through the device to minimize or eliminate interference caused by Fresnel reflections. An index matching material surrounds the area of attenuation to eliminate or minimize modal or cladding noise.