Wavelength tunable and broadband variable fiber-optic attenuators using liquid crystals

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Date
2005-05-24
Authors
Khan, Sajjad A.
Riza, Nabeel A.
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Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE)
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Abstract
Fiber-Optic Variable Optical Attenuators (VOAs) are demonstrated using Liquid Crystals (LC) for broadband as well as wavelength tunable applications. Attenuation is achieved by using a beam spoiling approach implemented via electrically reconfigurable non-pixelated no moving parts Nematic LC deflectors. The VOAs feature in-line architecture and polarization insensitive design without the use of bulky polarization splitting and combining optics. The proof-of-concept VOAs in the 1550 nm band demonstrate >30 dB attenuation ranges, low polarization dependent losses and low power consumption. Applications for these VOAs include agile wavelength tunable secure data communications networks and RF sensor systems.
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Keywords
Signal attenuation , Liquid crystals , Polarization , Mirrors , GRIN lenses , Collimators , Fiber optics
Citation
Khan, S. A. and Riza, N. A. (2005) 'Wavelength tunable and broadband variable fiber-optic attenuators using liquid crystals', Proceedings of SPIE, 5814, Enabling Photonics Technologies for Defense, Security, and Aerospace Applications, Defense and Security, 2005, Orlando, Florida, United States, 24 May, doi: 10.1117/12.604910
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© 2007 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE). One print or electronic copy may be made for personal use only. Systematic reproduction and distribution, duplication of any material in this paper for a fee or for commercial purposes, or modification of the content of the paper are prohibited.