Segmented-core single-mode fiber optimized for bending performance

Abstract

Both macrobending and microbending losses have been found to depend mainly on the mode field diameter of the fiber.1 In fibers of simple step-index design, it is possible to decrease the mode field diameter by increasing the delta of the core region; however, for large deltas, this can result in an undesirable increase in the cutoff and/or zero dispersion wavelengths. Using a segmented core design similar to that described by Bhagavatula et al.,2 the dependence of the cutoff and zero dispersion wavelengths on the delta of the core may be lessened. Thus a fiber with the same cutoff and zero dispersion wavelengths as a simple step-index design may be made with a lower mode-field diameter and hence a lower bending loss.