Calculating Optical Cable Attenuation
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When powers are in linear units, the loss in decibels is: Attenuation (dB) = 10 × log10 (Pin / Pout) If the link length L is provided, the attenuation coefficient is: Coefficient (dB/km) = Attenuation (dB). Attenuation is the steady reduction of optical power as light travels through fiber. In a receiver-limited system, every additional dB of loss reduces margin and can push bit error rate higher. Your budget must cover fiber loss, component losses, and a safety margin while still meeting receiver. You can apply this methodology to all types of optical fibers in order to estimate the maximum distance that optical systems use. Too often, buyers do not perform basic attenuation tests before they begin installing fiber optic cabling, which causes them to add costly splices or purchase premium-grade fiber optic cables that are overkill for the distance they need.