Abstract: The present invention relates to a connector for connecting optical fiber ribbons to each other, each of ribbons including a plurality of optical fibers spaced in line, and a method of attaching the same. The connector comprises an alignment member for placing the optical fibers in the grooves formed therein, a deformable metal member disposed on the optical fibers in the grooves of the alignment member, and a ferrule incorporated at the front end pportion with both the alignment member and the deformable metal member and adapted at the rear end portion to retain the unexposed portion of the optical fiber ribbon. Accordingly, the optical fibers are fixedly held between the alignment member and the deformable metal member while the ribbon is fixedly held by the rear end portion of the ferrule. The front ends of the optical fibers are cut at the front end of the ferrule.

Abstract: An optical attenuator for attenuating optical power by providing an air gap between coupled fiber ends. Both the end faces are allowed to have an inclination, thereby providing an optical attenuator with less reflected light and multiple reflection between coupled fibers.

Abstract: A weather resistance tester comprising:(a) a U.V. radiation source,(b) a reflector,(c) a shield panel provided in the opening of the reflector and closing the opening for transmitting U.V. radiation therethrough and substantially blocking water vapor,(d) a sample support,(e) temperature adjusting device,(f) a compartment having accommodated therein the above elements (a)-(e),(g) a recycling duct provided with a heat exchanger and blower,(h) a humidifier and(i) a control device for giving operational instructions to maintain a sample on the sample support at a predetermined temperature while the lamp is on and to subject the sample to a condensation condition while the lamp is off.