Review of single mode fiber measurement techniques Available to Purchase

A loss of fibers is obtained as a function of wavelength using the cut-back technique, also called the far end-near end technique. Because there are not problems relating to the input power distribution among the modes as in multi-mode fibers, the measurement of single mode fiber loss is simpler and more reproducible. The lower power levels that must be detected place great emphasis on high sensitivity, low noise detection systems, particularly at the longer wavelengths. I will present loss curves that illustrate the richness of single mode loss curves due to higher order mode cut-off, curvature induced losses due to such things as coatings, spool diameter, winding conditions, micro-bend sensitivity, and secondary waveguiding and leaky mode cut-off of the fundamental mode. This last loss mechanism is a feature associated with depressed cladding structure.