Method for extending bandwidth of large core fiber optic transmission links

Abstract

A method for making an optical fiber transmission apparatus for limiting the optical modes which were emitted from a source in such a way to impinge on an optical fiber to extract a high bandwidth from the fiber. The apparatus includes a lens or aperture to control the angle and distribution of light launched into the fiber. The apparatus achieves reproducibly high bandwidths in large core step-index optical fibers of short transmission length distances. The lens or aperture introduces light from the source into the fiber at an angle at which substantially no intermode delay occurs as the light propagates down the fiber. An integral fiber optic coupling assembly that includes an optical electronic component receptacle, the lens and/or aperture, and an optical fiber connector interface which provides low cost easy to manufacture assembly is also disclosed. A unitary plastic housing provides the function of a lens and mechanical reference or locating features for the light source and optical fiber.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.