SC Singlemode Plug-type Attenuators

Typical Uses of Singlemode Fixed Buildout Attenuators

 

A. Power Equalization (Balancing) at Patch Distribution Panel or Receiver Panel

 

Patch panels are extensively used in the telephony and test (laboratory) environments to connect fiber optic lines to transmission equipment. Occasionally some lines may need to be attenuated at the distribution or receiver panel to closely match the power in other lines, and, thereby, achieve power uniformity. 

 

B. Signal Attenuation to Meet Receiver's Dynamic Range

 

If the output power at the receiver exceeds the upper limit of the receiver's dynamic range, signals may become distorted, leading to high noise in analog systems and errors in digital transmissions.

 

 

C. Power Matching in SONET and ATM Systems

 

Buildout attenuators may be installed at the optical receiver or at the patch panel of SONET and ATM systems to equalize powers at the nodes. The distance between the host and the node can vary by several kilometers depending on the node.

 

 

D. CATV

 

Video applications demand more stringent reflectance and attenuation tolerance specifications. Reflections can degrade the system performance.The buildout attenuator, with an 8 or 9 degree polished end face (APC) meets the low reflectance (≤ 65 dB) requirements. This system may call for attenuators either at the transceiver, or in line. 

 

E. DWDM Systems

 

As the need to multiplex/demultiplex several narrowly spaced signals increases in DWDM systems, so does the need to match output powers with the receiver's dynamic range. The buildout attenuator is well suited for this application since it is wavelength independent. The designer has the option to insert an attenuator at the detector or patch panel to achieve the proper power level as shown below.