The Polarization-Maintaining 1550nm Circulator: Engineered for Precision in Demanding Optical Systems
Abstract: In polarization-sensitive applications like high-grade Fiber Optic Gyroscopes (FOGs), the circulator is more than a passive component—it is a critical gatekeeper of signal integrity. Feiyi Optics’ PM 1550nm Circulator is designed to meet this challenge, offering guaranteed performance parameters, flexible configurations, and robust packaging to ensure reliable operation in your most demanding systems.
1. Product Overview & Core Value Proposition
The Feiyi PM 1550nm Circulator is engineered to provide low insertion loss, high return loss, low polarization-dependent loss (PDL), and excellent isolation. Operating at the standard telecommunication window of 1550 ±30 nm, it is the ideal choice for maintaining signal fidelity in sophisticated PM optical paths. Its design emphasizes high stability and reliability, making it a trusted component in applications where performance cannot be compromised.
2. Detailed Performance Specifications: Single vs. Double Stage
The product is offered in two key configurations to balance performance requirements with system design needs. The “Double Stage” configuration provides superior isolation for the most critical applications.
| Parameter | Single Stage Configuration | Double Stage Configuration | Importance for System Design |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typ. / Max. Insertion Loss | 0.7 dB / 0.9 dB | 0.7 dB / 1.0 dB | Minimizes optical power penalty. |
| Typ. / Min. Isolation | ≥30 dB / ≥22 dB | ≥46 dB / ≥40 dB | Critical parameter. Higher isolation drastically reduces back-reflection noise, essential for FOG bias stability. |
| Min. Polarization Extinction Ratio (PER) | ≥20 dB | ≥20 dB | Ensures polarization state purity throughout the system. |
| Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL) | ≤0.15 dB | ≤0.15 dB | Prevents polarization-induced signal power fluctuations. |
| Return Loss | ≥50 dB | ≥50 dB | Protects upstream components (like lasers) from reflections. |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C to +75°C | -10°C to +75°C | Guarantees stable performance across a wide environmental range. |
| Package Dimension | Φ5.5xL35 or Φ5.5xL50 mm | Φ5.5xL35 or Φ5.5xL50 mm | Compact, rugged stainless steel tube for easy integration. |
3. Customization and Integration Flexibility
Understanding that every system has unique requirements, this circulator is designed for flexibility:
- Fiber Options: Available with PM1550 fiber or bare fiber, supporting precise axis alignment.
- Connectorization: Can be fitted with standard connectors including FC/PC, FC/APC, SC/PC, and SC/APC.
- Fiber Length: Custom tail lengths (e.g., 0.5m, 1m, 2m) are available to simplify system assembly and routing.
- Alternative Housing: Also available in an ABS box (90x20x10 mm) for different mounting needs.
4. Key Applications
This component is vital in systems where signal direction and polarization must be strictly controlled:
- Fiber Optic Gyroscopes (FOGs): For routing light to the sensing coil and directing the interference signal to the detector with minimal noise.
- Optical Amplifiers & Bi-Directional Communication: For isolating input and output signals.
- Advanced Fiber Sensors & Instruments: Where high isolation and low PDL are necessary for measurement accuracy.
- Dispersion Compensation Modules: For managing signal paths in complex optical networks.
5. Ordering Information
To specify your unit, please reference the following configuration code based on the page’s ordering guide:
| Product (3=3 port) | Wavelength (1=1550nm) | Fiber Type (2=PM1550) | Connector | Fiber Length |
|---|
Conclusion: A Strategic Component for Guaranteed Performance
Selecting the right circulator is a strategic decision that directly impacts system sensitivity, stability, and signal-to-noise ratio. Feiyi Optics’ PM 1550nm Circulator provides not only guaranteed specifications like high isolation and low PDL but also the customization flexibility required for seamless integration. By choosing a component with documented, reliable performance, you invest in the foundational stability of your entire optical system.
Explore detailed specifications or discuss your specific integration needs on our product page: PM 1550nm Circulator – Feiyi Optics