Abstract: Multimode beam combiners include at least one gradient-step index optical fiber in which a refractive index difference at a core/cladding interface is selected to provide a numerical aperture so as to provide stable, uniform beam output. One or more such fibers is formed into a tapered bundle than can be shaped to provide a selected illuminated aperture. The fibers in the bundle can be separated by respective tapered claddings so as to be optically coupled or uncoupled. Illumination systems can include a plurality of such fibers coupled to a plurality of laser diodes or other light sources.

Abstract: A laser system can include an optical fiber having a spatial filter defined as a core extension coupled to or integrally formed in an optical fiber so as to reduce the coupling of optical radiation into a fiber cladding. Such a core extension can be formed by removing a length of the cladding from the optical fiber, leaving a portion of the core exposed at the end of the fiber. Alternatively, a core extension can be formed by coupling an end cap to the core of the optical fiber at a fiber end surface. By selecting a length of the core extension based on a beam divergence and beam diameter, radiation coupling into the fiber core can be reduced.

Abstract: Multimode beam combiners include at least one gradient-step index optical fiber in which a refractive index difference at a core/cladding interface is selected to provide a numerical aperture so as to provide stable, uniform beam output. One or more such fibers is formed into a tapered bundle than can be shaped to provide a selected illuminated aperture. The fibers in the bundle can be separated by respective tapered claddings so as to be optically coupled or uncoupled. Illumination systems can include a plurality of such fibers coupled to a plurality of laser diodes or other light sources.

Abstract: A laser system can include an optical fiber having a spatial filter defined as a core extension coupled to or integrally formed in an optical fiber so as to reduce the coupling of optical radiation into a fiber cladding. Such a core extension can be formed by removing a length of the cladding from the optical fiber, leaving a portion of the core exposed at the end of the fiber. Alternatively, a core extension can be formed by coupling an end cap to the core of the optical fiber at a fiber end surface. By selecting a length of the core extension based on a beam divergence and beam diameter, radiation coupling into the fiber core can be reduced.

Abstract: A fiber optic cable is provided with connectors at terminal ends thereof. The connectors are configured to join TOSLINK compatible components together so that the cable can transmit an optical signal therebetween. A fiber of fused silica glass is provided with a plastic cladding material. Ball lenses are located at each terminal end of the fiber to enhance a signal intensity while maintaining signal quality passing through the cable and between the components joined together by the cable.