Manufacturing Technology for Low Cost Couplers

A. Nelson; R. Gravel; H. Roberts; F. Gillham

doi:10.1117/12.936905

8 November 1983 Manufacturing Technology for Low Cost Couplers

A. Nelson, R. Gravel, H. Roberts, F. Gillham

Proceedings Volume 0434, Fiber Optics in Local Area Networks; (1983) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.936905
Event: 27th Annual Technical Symposium, 1983, San Diego, United States

Abstract

The widespread use of fiber optic couplers has been significantly inhibited by their high cost. This paper presents a review of three generic types of fiber optic couplers, concentrating on their manufacturability. It is this ease of manufacture that ultimately determines the coupler cost and availability in large quantity. Fused biconical taper couplers prove to be quite versatile with excellent optical characteristics but less adaptable to mass production. A detector/tap coupler is described that has much improved manufacturability and includes a detector in the coupler itself, thereby saving connector costs. Finally, an active bidirectional coupler is discussed that incorporates a source and detector in the coupler body, thereby eliminating the need for all external device connections. This compact and rugged device is easily manufactured in large quantity while at the same time having excellent optical characteristics.

Citation Download Citation

A. Nelson, R. Gravel, H. Roberts, and F. Gillham "Manufacturing Technology for Low Cost Couplers", Proc. SPIE 0434, Fiber Optics in Local Area Networks, (8 November 1983); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.936905

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