Mode Selective Coupler (MSC) converts LP01 mode in single mode fiber (SMF) into a desired higher order mode in a few mode fiber (FMF), and vice versa. Side-polished SMF and FMF coupler halves are mated for an efficient evanescent mode coupling between two optical fibers (Please also see the side-polished fiber). The device demonstrates high coupling efficiency and mode extinction ratio over a wide wavelength range.
Working Principle
Mode selective coupler is a mode converting device which induces a mode coupling between the LP01 mode in the single mode fiber and the higher order mode in the few-mode fiber. The Fig. shows a schematic function of the MSC. When the effective index of the guided mode (LP01 mode) in the SMF coincides with that of a target higher order mode in the FMF, efficient coupling takes place in the coupler. This mode coupling is a reciprocal process and the MSC can be usable for both mode coupling and decoupling.
Applications for the mode selective coupler
Mode selective coupler can be utilized for the space division multiplexing (SDM) or mode division multiplexing (MDM) systems. Mode multiplexed transmission can be realized by cascading several MSCs in one strand of few-mode fiber (Please also see mode division multiplexer).
Demo Video
• All-fiber optic construction
• Low loss mode muxing/demuxing
• Communication band optimization
• Available with or without connectors
• Compact size
• Mode division multiplexing for optical communications
• Excitation of higher order modes
• Sensors