Abstract

This paper introduces a novel model for analyzing the optical interface performance degradation due to scratches on optical fiber end face. The model indicates that the contribution to the return loss (RL) of a scratch is determined by its size, location, and its relative reflectivity, which is defined as the ratio of the average reflectivity of the scratch to the base reflectivity of the defectless end face. Based on this new model, the effects on RL are analyzed for scratches of various numbers, different sizes, with different relative reflectivities, and at different locations. This quantified analysis provides a solid base to establish the specifications of inspection criteria of optical fiber connectors. With the new model, the relative reflectivity of a scratch was tested, and estimations of the RL of scratched connectors were performed, which were in good agreement with measurement results.

© 2004 IEEE

High return loss at the end face of fiber

Philippe Chanclou, Monique Thual, and Jean Iostec
Appl. Opt. 40(4) 458-460 (2001)

Effect of optical fiber end face scratches on laser-induced damage threshold

Xiao Wu, Lin Lin, Zhihang Zhang, Cui Liang, and Dengwei Zhang
Appl. Opt. 62(31) 8235-8241 (2023)

High-precision measurement of a fiber connector end face by use of a Mirau interferometer

Zongtao Ge and Fumio Kobayashi
Appl. Opt. 45(23) 5832-5839 (2006)

Effect of polishing conditions on terminating optical connectors with spherical convex polished ends

Samuel I-En Lin
Appl. Opt. 41(1) 88-95 (2002)

End-face scattering loss in integrated-optical waveguides

Hyang-Mok Lee, Min-Cheol Oh, Heuk Park, Wol-Yon Hwang, and Jang-Joo Kim
Appl. Opt. 36(34) 9021-9024 (1997)