Where to find good fiber optic attenuators nationwide

Top U. S. and internationally recognized fiber optic attenuators include Agiltron, Thorlabs, VIAVI, and DigiKey, offering both fixed and variable solutions for singlemode, multimode, and polarization-maintaining fibers.

Leading Manufacturers and Suppliers

Agiltron Inc. (Woburn, MA) provides a wide range of variable optical attenuators (VOAs), including fiber-to-fiber direct coupling for ultra-broad wavelength operation, electro-optic crystal VOAs for high-speed modulation, and fiber-bending mechanisms for extreme power handling up to 200 W. Their products are known for high accuracy, repeatability, and integration into programmable test systems (Agiltron). Thorlabs offers singlemode (SM), polarization-maintaining (PM), and multimode (MM) attenuators, both fixed and variable.

Their electronic VOAs allow precise output power control, while manual VOAs are available with various connector types such as FC/PC, FC/APC, and SMA. Thorlabs is recognized for high-quality optical components suitable for lab and industrial applications.

VIAV

I Solutions provides a complete range of optical attenuators for field, lab, and manufacturing environments. Their products include compact handheld attenuators, high-resolution devices for analog systems, and photonic-layer solutions for production environments.

VIAV

I is noted for rugged, reliable attenuators with wide wavelength coverage.

Digi

Key serves as a major distributor, offering a large in-stock selection of fiber optic attenuators, including singlemode, dual window, and multimode types with various connector styles (SC, FC, ST, MU).

Digi

Key is valued for fast shipping and broad availability.

Key Features to Consider

Fixed vs. Variable Attenuators: Fixed attenuators provide a set level of signal reduction, while variable attenuators allow adjustable optical power control. Fiber Type Compatibility: Singlemode, multimode, and polarization-maintaining fibers require specific attenuator designs.

Connector Types: Common connectors include FC/PC, FC/APC, SC, SC/APC, ST, and SMA. Power Handling and Wavelength Range: High-power applications may require fiber-bending or electro-optic VOAs, while broad wavelength operation is critical for multi-band systems. Precision and Integration: Some VOAs include feedback electronics for stable, repeatable attenuation in automated test setups.

Additional Notable Suppliers

Other recognized suppliers include Santec, Senko Advanced Components, EXFO, Diamond SA, and Coractive, which provide specialized attenuators for telecom, lab, and industrial applications, often with advanced features like polarization control, high-precision calibration, and integration into optical test systems. These manufacturers and distributors represent the most reliable and widely used fiber optic attenuator solutions in the U. S. and internationally, suitable for applications ranging from laboratory research to high-power telecommunications networks.