Abstract: An optical fiber connection device is disclosed that allows for in situ variable attenuation of a signal transmitted between two optical fibers. The connection device comprises an attenuator element fabricated with an inherently compliant, elastomeric material, preferably a silicone elastomer. The elastomeric properties of the attenuator element allow for varying the thickness of the attenuator element and thereby changing the level of attenuation in situ. Silicone elastomers are preferred for fabricating the attenuator element as applicants have discovered they may be index-matched to optical transmission fibers, have a high creep modulus, exhibit relatively constant mechanical properties over a broad range of temperatures, and are reliable upon exposure to varied environmental conditions.

Abstract: An improved optical fiber connection system comprises an attenuator element fabricated with an inherently elastomeric material, preferably a silicone elastomer. Silicone elastomers are particularly preferred for fabricating attenuator elements as they may be index-matched to optical transmission fibers, have a high creep modulus, exhibit relatively constant mechanical properties over a broad range of temperatures, and are reliable upon exposure to varied environmental conditions. Preferably, a disc-like attenuator element is punch-cut from a sheet of a silicone elastomer and inserted into the sleeve of an optical connector apparatus adjacent the end portion of an optical fiber to provide a simplified method of fabrication. Alternatively, the silicone attenuator element may be fabricated by liquid injection molding technology. The approximate reflectance of the inventive silicone attenuators at wavelengths of about 1310 nm measured at 23.degree. C. is less than -50 dB.

Abstract: An optical terminator 100 is designed to make end-to-end contact with an optical fiber whose end portion is held within a cylindrical ferrule. The optical terminator reduces reflections that occur when an optical path encounters an abrupt change in refractive index (e.g., when the end portion of the optical fiber encounters an air gap whose refractive index n.apprxeq.1.0). The optical terminator includes a generally cylindrical member 110 that projects from, and is supported by, a backbone member 120. The cylindrical member and the backbone member are molded from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) as a one-piece structure. PMMA provides a reflection of about -40 dB. Nevertheless, plastic materials having an index of refraction of 1.46.+-.0.06 produce reflections that are less than about -34 dB, which is acceptable in a large number of applications. Moreover, plastic materials having a glass-transition temperature (T.sub.g) that is higher than about 80.degree. C.