Abstract: The present invention provides optical systems containing an afocal variator able to impart focus means to the optical system, as well as essentially constant magnification throughout the focal translation. The present application teaches a specific formula or set of spacing requirements for the positioning of the afocal variator that can be used with any afocal variator optical lens system comprised of various lens combinations. Provided that the formula for spacing the afocal variator within the optical system is utilized, the afocal variator acts not only to focus the optical system but maintains substantially constant magnification during the translation of focus.

Abstract: This invention relates to temperature compensated FFPs with improved means for alignment of optical fibers. The invention provides ferrule holders with shaped ferrule passageways, as components of FFP alignment fixtures, in which optical fiber ends can be readily aligned using the ferrule rotary alignment method. The ferrule holders have a composite structure facilitating temperature compensation required for applications to PZT-tuned FFPs. The ferrule holder has a core and peripheral region made of materials having different thermal expansion coefficients. The holder core in contact with the ferrule is made of a material having a thermal expansion coefficient substantially matched to that of the ferrule material. In addition, ferrule holders are provided with a means for changing the points of contact between a secured ferrule and its holder which allows wavelength drift as a function of temperature in FFPs to be adjusted.