Optical simulator with loop-back attenuator having metalized optical fiber

An optical simulator shaped to be interchangeable with a complimentary connector that intermates with an optical connector having an optical emitter and an optical detector, the optical simulator comprising an alignment fixture with connectors for intermating with the optical emitter and the optical detector, and an optical fiber formed in a loop and installed within the alignment fixture with a first end face of the loop aligned with the emitter, and a second end face of the loop aligned with the detector of the optical connector, said simulator further including attenuation inducing means, wherein:

• the optical simulator comprises a solid molded body of an electrically insulating material and;
• the optical fiber formed in a loop comprises an optical fiber having a relatively rigid coating of uniform thickness comprising an inner relatively thin electrolessly plated metal coating and an outer and relatively thick coating of electroplated metal of uniform thickness.