Collimators
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Fiber Optic Collimators: Precision Beam Control for Fiber-Coupled Systems
Fiber optic collimators are key components in photonics systems that transform the divergent light emerging from an optical fiber into a parallel (collimated) beam. These versatile devices are widely used in fiber optic communications, laser systems, spectroscopy, and sensing applications. On FindLight, you can explore a broad selection of high-precision fiber collimators designed for single-mode, multi-mode, and polarization-maintaining fibers, from trusted global suppliers.
What Are Fiber Optic Collimators?
A fiber collimator typically consists of a fiber connector aligned to a precision lens—often an aspheric or GRIN (graded-index) lens—housed within a rigid metal barrel. The lens focuses the diverging light emitted from the fiber core into a parallel beam, allowing for efficient free-space propagation, optical coupling, or interaction with other components.
Collimators are crucial when integrating fiber optics with bulk optics, such as mirrors, beam splitters, or interferometers. They’re also essential in minimizing signal loss and preserving beam quality in systems requiring free-space transmission over short distances.
Key Features and Benefits
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Highly Collimated Output: Delivers parallel light beams with minimal divergence, essential for accurate optical alignment.
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Low Insertion and Return Loss: Designed for optimal optical performance, ensuring efficient light coupling and minimal signal reflection.
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Multiple Wavelength Options: Available for telecom wavelengths (1310 nm, 1550 nm), visible light, and even mid-IR applications.
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Customizable Design: Offered in various lens types, working distances, beam diameters, and connector formats (FC, SC, LC, SMA, and more).
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Robust Construction: Housed in precision-machined barrels for long-term reliability in laboratory and industrial settings.
Common Applications
Fiber optic collimators are used in a wide variety of optical systems, including:
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Fiber-to-free-space coupling
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Laser beam delivery systems
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Wavelength division multiplexing (WDM)
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Fiber optic sensing
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Optical alignment and testing
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Interferometry and spectroscopy
They are often employed as input/output ports for circulators, isolators, and other bulk optic devices requiring high alignment precision.
How to Choose the Right Collimator
Selecting the right fiber collimator depends on:
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Wavelength Range: Ensure the lens and coating are optimized for your operating wavelength.
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Beam Diameter: Choose a size based on how tightly or broadly you need to collimate the beam.
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Working Distance: The optimal distance over which the beam remains collimated.
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Connector Type: Match with your existing fiber connector (e.g., FC/APC for low back-reflection).
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Fiber Type: Available for single-mode, multi-mode, and PM fiber configurations.
At FindLight, you can filter by these specifications to quickly identify the most suitable product.
Shop High-Performance Fiber Collimators on FindLight
FindLight connects you with manufacturers offering premium fiber optic collimators for any application—from telecom networks to high-end optical labs. With detailed product listings, downloadable datasheets, and direct RFQ options, finding the right component has never been easier.