Patent ID: 6807358
Filing Date: 2004-10-19
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A variable attenuator device for varying signal attenuation within an optical fiber transmission system, said device comprising:first and second substantially identical ferrules, each of said ferrules being mounted in first and second spaced barrels, respectively; each of said ferrules having a fiber containing bore therein offset from the ferrule centerline the same distance, said ferrules having substantially identical distal ends; said ferrules extending toward each other, with their distal ends separated by a gap having a first width; a tubular sleeve member at each end of which one of said ferrules is inserted until the ends of said sleeve butt against said first and second barrels, said sleeve having a length greater than the combined length of said first and second ferrule by said first width of said gap; and said second ferrule being rotatable with respect to said first ferrule while said first width of said gap is maintained throughout relative rotation of said ferrules.