Use of mode coupled optical fiber in communications systems

Abstract

Mode-coupled plastic or glass optical fibers are used in communications systems to carry optical signals between transmitters and receivers. In order to overcome the high attenuation characteristics of mode-coupled optical fibers, the launch power used to transmit signals over the optical links is higher than those typically used in comparable conventional communications systems that rely on standard single-mode or multimode glass optical fibers. In order to accommodate the larger launch power levels, the communications systems are designed with receivers having a larger dynamic range than those used in conventional communications systems. In addition, the mode-coupled optical fibers can have diameters on the order of 50-62.5 microns, or even larger, thereby enabling the use of relatively simple and inexpensive butt coupling between the fibers and other system components (e.g., transmitters and receivers).

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.