Level-setting optical attenuator
US5900983A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 22, 1997 |
| Grant date | May 4, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 22, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/3594
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A level-setting attenuator for generating an output signal having a predetermined optical power from an input optical signal having a varying power is disclosed. The level-setting attenuator includes a telecentric imaging device, a variable atttenuator, an optical power detector and control electronics. The telecentric imaging device collimates a received optical signal which is received and partially attenuated by the variable attenuator. In some embodiments, the variable attenuator generates an attenuated signal portion and an unattenuated signal portion. The attenuated signal is directed, by the variable attenuator, to an optical power detector operable to measure the power of the attenuated optical signal. The detector sends a signal indicative of the measurement to control electronics. The control electronics are operable to generate a control signal for controlling the attenuation of the unattenuated signal portion so that is has the predetermined power level. The unattenuated signal portion is coupled, via the telecentric imaging device, into an output fiber.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.