Development of optical attenuator technology

• Grant number: 00/07566-0
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: January 01, 2002
• End date: September 30, 2004
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Telecommunications
• Principal Investigator: Walter Luiz de Andrade Carvalho
• Grantee: Walter Luiz de Andrade Carvalho
• Company: Fotônica Tecnologia Ótica Ltda

Abstract

The project aims to develop optical attenuator technology. These components are of special importance in the installation of modern optical systems and various types of attenuator are necessary for the good administration of the optical power of a system. Initially, existing models of attenuator were studied for the development of a component adapted especially for the needs of amplified WDM optical systems. In this case, existing attenuators present various problems, such as resistance to high powers, losses dependent on polarization and lack of control of the return loss, polarization and the attenuation value. The project aims to resolve these problems using three approaches: 1) attenuation using controlled fracture in the fusion of the two fibers; 2) the use of fibers doped with metallic ions; and 3) the insertion of absorbent elements in the optical path. As a result it is hoped to obtain new high performance components capable of being commercialized in the international optical communications market. (AU)