MEMS Variable Optical Attenuator

MEMS Variable Optical Attenuator

A compact in-line MEMS variable optical attenuator with at least 30 dB range, 0–5 V drive and a listed response time of 2 ms or less.

Product Features

  • Continuous variable attenuation over the listed wavelength range.
  • Normally open and normally closed variants.
  • 0–5 V drive in the current configuration.
  • Response time of 2 ms or less from 10% to 90% optical power.
  • Insertion loss ≤0.7 dB and repeatability ≤0.1 dB in the listed data.
  • Maximum listed optical power is 300 mW.

The MEMS Variable Optical Attenuator is an electrically controlled in-line component for changing optical power within a fiber path. A micro-electromechanical mechanism varies attenuation in response to the applied drive voltage, supporting dynamic leveling rather than one fixed loss value.

The current specification lists 1260–1650 nm operation, at least 30 dB attenuation range, normally open or normally closed forms, and continuous attenuation. Electrical control, optical connection and package integration must be treated as one design task.

Selection & Configuration

Confirm wavelength, required attenuation range, default state, drive method, optical power, connectorization or bare-fiber leads, package and response requirement. The control circuit must respect the device drive range and the system's fail-state behavior.

Manufacturing & Customization

Huijue Group can review drawing-based MEMS VOA packaging, fiber leads, connectors and private-label identification. A customer sample or control-interface drawing can support integration, but package tooling, electrical characterization, optical acceptance and production quantity require engineering approval.

Information for an Accurate Quotation

  • Wavelength and optical-power range
  • Attenuation range and default state
  • Drive voltage and response target
  • Package, fiber lead and connector format
  • Test data, labeling and quantity

Technical Parameters

Parameter Unit Specification Remarks
Operating Wavelength Range nm 1260-1650  
Attenuation Type — Normally Open or Normally Closed Continuous Attenuation
Attenuation Range dB ≥30  
Insertion Loss¹ dB ≤0.7  
Return Loss¹ dB ≥45  
Response Time ms ≤2 10%~90% Optical Power
Driving Voltage V 0~5  
Maximum Optical Power mW 300  
Repeatability dB ≤0.1  

Note: The above specifications do not include the loss of connector plugs.

Applications

  • Optical power equalization
  • Test and measurement systems
  • Dynamic channel-level adjustment
  • Receiver protection and controlled optical experiments

Installation Notes

Integrate the VOA in a protected assembly with strain relief and a controlled electrical drive. Do not exceed the listed optical power or voltage; final temperature and reliability limits must be confirmed for the ordered package.

Buyer Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers specific to MEMS Variable Optical Attenuator selection, configuration and purchasing.

What is the difference between normally open and normally closed?

It defines the device's optical state without the active control condition. Choose the fail-state behavior required by the system.

Can the MEMS VOA be ordered with connectors?

Connectorized leads can be reviewed, but connector type, polish, fiber length and package strain relief must be approved.

Is the 0–5 V input a communications protocol?

No. It is the listed analog drive range for the device; any digital control or closed-loop electronics are a separate system function.

Related Products

Application planning

Where this product family fits

Use the deployment context to narrow the configuration before comparing dimensions, capacities and options.

Passive optical distribution

Match splitter or WDM architecture to wavelength plan, ratio, package and insertion-loss targets.

Equipment interconnection

Coordinate connector, polish, fiber grade, polarity and cable length across patching points.

High-density links

Plan MPO/MTP trunks and harnesses around port mapping, breakout format and rack density.

Installation and maintenance

Select splicing, cleaning and test tools for the connector types and measurements used on site.

Before quotation: confirm capacity, interfaces, installation environment, power conditions, quantity and required options.