Mention the various components of signal loss in a typical fiber optic link.

Question :

Mention the various components of signal loss in a typical fiber optic link.

Losses are due to the following reasons:

1. Absorption and attenuation of the cable because the cladding is not completely opaque. So, some of the light energy is absorbed into the cladding.
2. Large losses result from the physical connections that bring light sources and detectors into alignment with the fiber cable.
3. Losses also occur between the splices which are the connectors that attach two cables together.
4. Misalignment of the light source to cable causes loss of light energy. The misalignments are reduced by precise fittings coupling and splices and by carefully following the connecting processes given by the manufacturer.
5. Loss of light also occurs because of bends in laying the cable.