Abstract: The present invention provides an optical device and a subsystem incorporating the same. In an advantageous embodiment, the optical device includes a signal multiplexer element, and a signal distributor element, both contained within a single optic package unit such that signals introduced therein propagate in free space between the signal multiplexer element and the signal distributor element.

Abstract: A method is provided for assembling an optical collimator array. The method begins by directing light through a first optical collimator to produce a first optical output beam. The first collimator is supported by a first carrier element. The first collimator is rotated about its central longitudinal axis to adjust a position of the first optical output beam on a surface that intercepts the first optical output beam. The first carrier element is then rotated about a carrier axis perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis and in a plane containing the central longitudinal axis to further adjust the position of the first optical output beam on the surface. The first collimator continues to be rotated about these axes until the first optical output beam is located at a desired position on the surface, at which point the first optical collimator is secured to the first carrier element. Next, the first carrier element itself is secured to prevent rotation about the carrier axis.

Abstract: An optical attenuator includes at least two optical fiber terminations, of which at least one is misaligned, for providing uniform attenuation, which is substantially wavelength independent. At least one of the fiber terminations is misaligned from its position that provides best optical coupling. To accomplish this misalignment, at least one of the fiber terminations is displaced, laterally, longitudinally, or both. This displacement allows only a portion of the incident optical energy to enter an optical fiber core. This reduction in transmission of optical energy provides optical attenuation that is approximately uniform as a function of wavelength. Alternate configurations include at least one lens, such as GRIN lens, a spherical lens, or an aspherical lens, placed between the optical fiber terminations.

Abstract: A modulator and scrambler for utilization in lightwave transmission systems which utilizes an electrically controlled Faraday rotator to modulate the polarization of an optical signal. The modulator rotates the polarization of light by a controlled or time-varying amount due to the application of a variable magnetic field to a Faraday rotator material via an external electric coil. To permit high frequency excitation of the Faraday rotator a non-conducting, non-magnetic material such as glass or a composite is used for the casing of the Faraday rotator. A Faraday rotator material requiring a low intensity magnetic field, such as the Bismuth Iron Garnet films, is preferred. Several films may be stacked to increase the rotation range for a given amplitude of induced magnetic field. The modulator may include one or more optical reflectors to achieve multiple passes through the Faraday rotator to multiply the total rotation with modest additional insertion loss.

Abstract: An optical wave guide coupler with an integral signal modifying element that passively compensates for temperature variations by automatically tilting the element and thereby changing its operating characteristics with changes in temperature. The element is also rotatably, yet firmly, supported by the coupler and is retained at a predetermined angle relative to the axis of the coupler so that the operating characteristics of the element may be selectively varied by rotation of the element holder of the coupler.

Abstract: A technique is disclosed for aligning a packaged optical emitter with its associated transmission fiber which provides peak power coupling between the emitter and the fiber. The technique uses a connectorized coherent fiber bundle which is inserted in the fiber connecting portion of the package such that it accepts the emitter output radiation at the same Z-axis position as the single fiber it simulates. The fiber bundle has a fiducial marking on one end which coincides with the core region of the single fiber. Both the emission pattern and the fiducial marking are displayed on a video monitor and the emitter subassembly is moved around inside the package until the emission pattern coincides with the fiducial, thus indicating alignment of the emitter with the associated transmission fiber.

Abstract: A cable penetration matrix structure comprises a plurality of individual penetration cells ganged together to form a matrix. A sheath or shroud is added to each penetration cell in use to extend the length of the passageway. Each penetration cell is designed to permit cable passage therethrough in bundles and operates as a self-contained entity. Intumescent cards are inserted between layers of cable to provide a fire stopping seal. Each cell is opened for use as needed and unused cells may be tiled over as part of the floor. The cells are made of a cementitious material and may be reused in the event of a fire.