Issues relating to the performance of optical connectors and splices

Leslie A. Reith

doi:10.1117/12.163786

18 November 1993 Issues relating to the performance of optical connectors and splices

Leslie A. Reith

Proceedings Volume 1973, Passive Fiber Optic Components and Their Reliability; (1993) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.163786
Event: Video Communications and Fiber Optic Networks, 1993, Berlin, Germany

Abstract

The performance of an optical splice or connector is defined by its insertion loss and reflectance. Insertion loss is well understood and primarily depends on the precision of the alignment of the two fiber cores. Reflectance performance is more complex; it depends strongly on the fiber separation and the refractive index of the media between the fiber endfaces, as well as the preparation of the endfaces. This paper describes the principle sources of loss and reflectance for both mechanical splices and connectors. The connectors considered are those with cylindrical-ferrule, physical-contact design and the mechanical splices considered are those which use either index-matching gels or adhesives at the fiber-fiber interface. The paper shows data illustrating typical performance parameters. Finally, some specific concerns that exist regarding reliability and intermateability issues are considered. These include the issue of fiber motion in connectors and particulate occlusion (e.g., voids, contaminants, droplets) in splices.

Citation Download Citation

Leslie A. Reith "Issues relating to the performance of optical connectors and splices", Proc. SPIE 1973, Passive Fiber Optic Components and Their Reliability, (18 November 1993); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.163786

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available