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Description

1550nm Polarization Maintaining Optical Circulator (Fast Axis Blocked) – DK-XS-DT-006-A/2

The 1550nm Polarization Maintaining Optical Circulator (Fast Axis Blocked) from DK Photonics is a precision-engineered component designed to efficiently manage the direction of light signals in advanced fiber optic systems. This circulator is tailored for applications where maintaining the polarization state of light is critical, such as in fiber amplifiers, fiber sensors, and coherent detection systems. By ensuring that the fast axis is blocked, the device preserves the polarization integrity of the transmitted signal, which is essential for high-performance optical networks and measurement setups.

This circulator operates by routing incoming optical signals from Port 1 to Port 2, and from Port 2 to Port 3, effectively isolating the input and output paths to minimize signal loss and prevent unwanted feedback. Unlike standard isolators, which simply block reflected signals, this device allows the rejected light to be directed to a third port, enabling more versatile system configurations and enhanced signal management. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for integration into space-constrained environments, while its robust construction ensures long-term stability and reliability even under demanding operational conditions.

The DK-XS-DT-006-A/2 is engineered for high isolation and a high extinction ratio, ensuring that cross-talk and signal degradation are kept to a minimum. This makes it particularly suitable for use in test and measurement setups, as well as in fiber optic communication systems where signal fidelity is paramount. The circulator’s low insertion loss and cost-effective design further enhance its appeal for both research and industrial applications. As with other leading polarization maintaining circulators on the market, DK Photonics offers customization options to accommodate specific wavelength requirements, fiber types, and power handling needs, ensuring seamless integration into a wide range of optical systems.

With its combination of compact size, high performance, and adaptability, the 1550nm Polarization Maintaining Optical Circulator stands out as a reliable solution for professionals seeking to optimize signal routing and polarization management in modern photonic applications.

1550nm Polarization Maintaining Optical Circulator High Isolation DK Photonics

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Specifications

Type Of The Device: Circulator
Operating Wavelength: 1550 nm
Max Power: 50 W
Min Isolation: 30 dB
Wavelength: 1550 nm
Transmission Optical Path: 1 -> 2, 2 -> 3
Connector Power Handling: < 2 W
Connector Key Alignment: Slow axis
Type A Transmission Path: 1 -> 2, 2 -> 3, 3 -> 4
Type B Transmission Path: 1 -> 2, 2 -> 3, 3 -> 4, 4 -> 1

Got questions about specs? Use the inquiry form to ask.

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Features

  • Compact Size: Space-saving design ideal for integration into dense optical systems.
  • High Isolation: Superior isolation between ports minimizes signal leakage and cross-talk.
  • High Extinction Ratio: Ensures excellent polarization maintaining performance for demanding applications.
  • Low Insertion Loss: Minimizes signal attenuation for optimal transmission efficiency.
  • Low Cost: Cost-effective solution without compromising on performance or reliability.
  • High Stability & Reliability: Robust construction ensures long-term, stable operation in various environments.
  • Fast Axis Blocked: Maintains polarization by blocking the fast axis, ideal for PM fiber systems.
  • Wide Wavelength Range: Available for 1550 nm and other wavelengths upon request.
  • Customizable Configurations: Supports custom fiber pigtails, connector types, and handling power to meet specific requirements.
  • Low Back Reflection: Reduces unwanted reflections to protect sensitive optical components.
  • High Power Handling (Optional): Heat sink package available for high-power applications.
  • RoHS Compliant: Environmentally friendly and compliant with international standards.

Applications

  • Optical Fiber Amplifiers
    Enhances signal strength in fiber optic communication systems while maintaining polarization, crucial for high-performance telecom networks and CATV systems.
  • Fiber Optic Sensing Systems
    Used in distributed and point fiber sensor applications, such as structural health monitoring, perimeter security, and environmental sensing, where polarization control improves measurement accuracy.
  • Test and Measurement Equipment
    Essential in laboratory and production environments for characterizing optical components, systems, and networks, ensuring precise polarization management during testing.
  • Coherent Optical Communication
    Enables advanced modulation formats and coherent detection techniques in high-speed, long-haul, and metro fiber optic networks by preserving signal polarization.
  • Quantum Communication and Cryptography
    Maintains polarization states required for quantum key distribution (QKD) and other quantum information protocols, ensuring secure data transmission.
  • Optical Add-Drop Multiplexing (OADM)
    Facilitates the routing and management of specific wavelength channels in dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) systems, with polarization control for improved performance.
  • Laser Systems and Interferometry
    Used in fiber laser setups, interferometers, and gyroscopes, where stable polarization is critical for high-precision measurements and signal integrity.
  • Biomedical Imaging and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
    Supports polarization-sensitive imaging techniques, enhancing contrast and information content in biomedical diagnostics.
  • Fiber-Based Gyroscopes and Navigation Systems
    Ensures high accuracy and stability in fiber optic gyroscopes (FOGs) and inertial navigation systems by maintaining polarization.
  • Polarization-Sensitive Remote Sensing
    Used in LIDAR, atmospheric monitoring, and remote sensing applications where polarization information is vital for data interpretation.
  • Optical Signal Routing and Protection
    Acts as a signal router in complex optical networks, enabling bidirectional transmission and protection switching with polarization maintenance.
  • Research and Development
    Ideal for R&D in photonics, quantum optics, and advanced fiber optic technologies where precise polarization control is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 1550nm Polarization Maintaining Optical Circulator?
A 1550nm Polarization Maintaining Optical Circulator is a compact, high-performance fiber optic device that routes light signals in a specific direction between its ports while maintaining the polarization of the light. It is designed for use at the 1550nm wavelength and is commonly used in fiber amplifiers, sensors, test and measurement systems, and coherent detection applications.
How does a polarization maintaining optical circulator work?
A polarization maintaining optical circulator directs incoming light from Port 1 to Port 2, and from Port 2 to Port 3, while blocking the fast axis to maintain polarization. It acts as a signal router, ensuring that light travels in only one direction between ports, and can also redirect any reflected light to a third port, protecting sensitive equipment from back reflections.
What are the key features of the DK Photonics 1550nm PM Optical Circulator?
The DK Photonics 1550nm PM Optical Circulator offers a compact size, high isolation, high extinction ratio, low cost, and high stability and reliability. These features make it suitable for demanding applications where signal integrity and polarization maintenance are critical.
What applications are suitable for a polarization maintaining optical circulator?
Polarization maintaining optical circulators are ideal for use in fiber amplifiers, fiber optic sensors, test and measurement setups, and coherent detection systems. They are essential in applications where maintaining the polarization state of light is crucial for system performance.
How does this circulator differ from a standard optical isolator?
While both devices protect against back reflections, an optical circulator not only blocks reflected light but also routes it to a third port, allowing the rejected light to be used elsewhere in the system. In contrast, an isolator simply blocks or absorbs the reflected light.
Can the DK Photonics PM Optical Circulator be customized for specific requirements?
Yes, DK Photonics offers customization for their PM Optical Circulators, including different fiber pigtails, wavelengths, handling power, and package sizes. Customers are encouraged to contact DK Photonics with their specific requirements for a tailored solution.
What should I consider when ordering a polarization maintaining optical circulator?
When ordering, specify the correct part number and inform DK Photonics if your application involves pulse energy, peak power, or high-power operation. For devices with connectors, note that insertion loss and extinction ratio may vary slightly. For high-power applications, a heat sink package may be recommended.

Got more questions? Use the inquiry form to ask the supplier directly.

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