DESCRIPTION
The FC Adjustable Type Fiber Optic Attenuator offers a flexible solution for controlling optical signal power. Designed with an FC connector, it allows for easy integration into existing systems, providing reliable performance and precise attenuation adjustments. This attenuator is ideal for both testing environments and live network applications where dynamic signal management is required. Its robust construction ensures durability and long-term reliability.
Engineering Suitability & Selection Boundaries
- When This Product Is the Right Choice
- Typically selected when a single-mode link needs variable optical power control (1–30 dB) for commissioning, troubleshooting, or lab work where the target receive power must be tuned.
- Commonly used in setups standardized on FC threaded interfaces, where secure retention and repeatable mating are required during repeated adjustments.
- Usually appropriate when the wavelength plan is known (1310 / 1550 or dual) and the operator needs an adjustable device to keep receivers within a stable operating window without rebuilding the link.
- Typically suitable when the test or network environment expects controlled handling and can maintain consistent connector cleanliness during frequent insert/remove cycles.
- When This Product May NOT Be Suitable
- May not be suitable when the network requires a fixed, auditable attenuation value for long-term deployment, since adjustability introduces the risk of unintended setting drift during maintenance.
- Commonly unsuitable if the link budget and target power are not defined, as arbitrary adjustment can mask real issues (dirty connectors, macro-bends, or component loss) instead of fixing them.
- May not be appropriate when the required attenuation exceeds the stated range or when the application involves power levels outside the specified tolerance expectations.
- Typically not suitable in environments where frequent field access occurs without controlled procedures, since accidental knob movement can change system behavior unexpectedly.
- Common Selection Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a variable attenuator as a permanent “patch” without documenting the final setting, which commonly creates troubleshooting ambiguity later.
- Adjusting attenuation before confirming connector cleanliness and baseline link loss, which commonly hides the real root cause of unstable receive power.
- Mixing UPC/APC conventions inconsistently around the attenuator interface, which commonly causes avoidable reflection behavior and test variability.
Feature Details
- Precise Adjustability: The attenuation level can be finely tuned to meet specific requirements, ensuring optimal signal performance without overloading or underpowering the network.
- FC Connector Compatibility: The FC connector offers secure and stable connections, making it easy to integrate into various network configurations.
- High Durability: Engineered with high-quality materials to withstand repeated use and environmental stress, ensuring long service life.
- Broad Wavelength Compatibility: Operates effectively across a wide wavelength range, suitable for diverse fiber optic applications.
- Low Insertion Loss: Maintains high transmission quality by minimizing the loss of optical power during attenuation.
Product Specifications
| FC | |
|---|---|
| Transfer Mode | Single mode |
| Connector Gender | Adjustable |
| Attenuation Range | 1-30dB |
| Attenuation Accuracy | ±0.5dB(1dB-10dB)；±1.0dB(11dB-25dB) |
| Available Wavelengths | 1310nm,1550nm,1310&1550nm |
| Wavelength Dependence | ＜0.3dB Change in insertion loss for 1310-1550nm |
| Return Loss | ≥50dB(UPC)；≥60dB(APC) |
| Polarization Dependent Loss | ≤0.2dB |
| Temperature Range | -40-80°C(≤0.2dB in insertion loss) |
| Humidity Range | +/-0.2dB Change in 10% to 90% relative Humidity Range |
| Vibration | ≤0.1dB Change between 10Hz to 55Hz |
| Drop | +/-0.2dB after 8 drops from 1.8meters onto a hard surface |
| Maximum Optical Input Power | 200mW |
Application Details
- Telecommunication Networks: Enables dynamic control of signal strength for maintaining network performance under varying load conditions.
- Test and Measurement Systems: Provides adjustable attenuation for accurate testing and diagnostics in optical networks.
- Data Centers: Adjusts signal power to optimize network efficiency and prevent signal degradation.
- FTTH Systems: Allows for flexible control of optical signals to manage power levels at customer endpoints.
FAQ
Q1: What is the difference between a fixed and an adjustable fiber attenuator?
A fixed attenuator provides a constant attenuation value, while an adjustable attenuator allows continuous tuning of signal loss.
Q2: What attenuation range does this model support?
This FC adjustable attenuator supports a range from 1 dB to 30 dB.
Q3: Is this attenuator suitable for live network adjustment?
Yes, it is designed for both testing environments and live network applications.
Q4: Which wavelengths are supported?
It supports 1310 nm, 1550 nm, and dual-wavelength operation.
Q5: What fiber type is compatible with this attenuator?
This model is designed for single-mode fiber networks.
Q6: What is the maximum optical input power?
The attenuator supports up to 200 mW of optical input power.
Q7: Where is this attenuator commonly used?
It is widely used in telecom networks, FTTH systems, data centers, and optical testing setups.
