Abstract: A sensing coil is provided for optically guiding counter-propagating light beams in a fiber optic gyroscope. The sensing coil comprises a plurality of layers of an optical fiber having a winding direction. The plurality of layers comprises inner layers, middle layers, and outer layers. The middle layers comprise first and second input ends configured to receive the counter-propagating light beams. At least one of the inner layers, middle layers, and outer layers is coupled with a different one of the inner layers, middle layers, and outer layers while maintaining the winding direction. A method is provided for winding an optical fiber, having first and second connecting ends, to form a sensing coil for a fiber optic gyroscope having a winding direction.

Abstract: A variable chirp optical modulator is provided in which an optical waveguide is split for part of its length into first and second waveguide arms. Electrode pairs are utilized to provide modulating electric fields in a portion of the first and second waveguide arms. The optical lengths of the portions of the first and second waveguide arms that are subject to the modulating electric fields are different and are selected to provide a predetermined level of chirp. By controlling the optical power split from the optical waveguide to the first and second arms, the chirp is varied from the predetermined level.

Abstract: A variable chirp optical modulator is provided. An optical waveguide is split for part of its length into first and second waveguide arms. Electrode pairs are positioned to be proximate a first portion of corresponding waveguide arms. The lengths of each of the electrodes are different and are selected to provide a predetermined level of chirp.