Definition:
- Optical passive components are devices used in fiber optic networks to manipulate and guide light signals without the need for an external power source.
- They function based on the principles of optics and do not require any electrical energy to operate.
Key Characteristics:
- No Power Consumption: This is a major advantage, leading to reduced energy costs and increased reliability.
- Signal Integrity:Generally, they maintain the quality of the optical signal with minimal distortion or degradation.
- Reliability:Due to their simple design and lack of moving parts, they typically exhibit high reliability and long lifespans.
- Versatility:They are used in a wide range of applications, from telecommunications and data centers to sensing and medical devices.
Examples:
- Optical connectors (SC, ST, FC, LC)
- Optical couplers/splitters
- Optical attenuators
- Optical isolators
- Optical circulators
- Optical filters
- Optical switches