Fiber Optics

Abstract

Fiber‐optic based communication depends on the availability of high quality low loss optical fibers. Light guidance within a fiber is discussed. Operating wavelengths have been extended by controlling fiber attenuation and dispersion. Fiber fabrication methods are presented. The use of high purity starting materials and vapor deposition techniques allows the production of glass fibers having optical losses that approach the intrinsic loss of silica. Fiber drawing processes determine strength. Active optical fibers have been exploited to amplify light, extending the range of transmission systems and allowing increased capacity. Erbium‐doped fibers are being used for signal amplification in fiber‐optic cable. Devices taking advantage of gratings written in optical fibers include filters and lasers. The market for fiber‐optics materials is expected to continue to grow.