Dicon Fiberoptics, Inc.

Brian Chiang

Ho-Shang Lee

Ming-Ching Lo

Integrated optical component combine the functions of a Variable Optical Attenuator (VOA), a tap coupler, and a photo-detector, reducing the size, cost, and complexity of these functions. In other embodiments, the integrated optical component combines the functions of an optical switch, a tap coupler, and a photo-detector. A rotatable mirror is used to adjust the coupling of light from an input port or ports to one or more output ports. A pin hole with a surrounding reflective surface is used at the core end face of one or more output fibers, such that a portion of the output optical signal is reflected to a photodiode chip. The photo-detector provides an indication of the optical power that is being coupled to the output fiber. With appropriate electronic control circuitry, the integrated optical component can be used to set the output optical power at a desired or required level.

Integrated optical components with variable attenuation or switching, and tap detector functions

The optical thickness of an optical device such as an interference filter or optical isolator is altered by applying stress thereto. This changes the frequency or isolation characteristics of the filter or isolator. The two sides of the device may be clamped to a member having a temperature expansion coefficient which is different from that of the device in order to apply tension or compression to the device in response to temperature changes. In this manner, the shifts in optical characteristics of the device due to temperature change is at least partially cancelled by the shifts in optical characteristics induced by stress applied by the member.

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Albany, CA, United States of America

Brian Chiang