Inexpensive 3dB coupler for POF communication by injection-molding production

POFs (polymer optical fibers) gradually replace traditional communication media such as copper and glass within short distance communication systems. Primarily, this is due to their cost-effectiveness and easy handling. POFs are used in various fields of optical communication, e. g. the automotive sector or in-house communication. So far, however, only a few key components for a POF communication network are available. Even basic components, such as splices and couplers, are fabricated manually. Therefore, these circumstances result in high costs and fluctuations in components' performance. Available couplers have high insertion losses due to their manufacturing method. This can only be compensated by higher power budgets. In order to produce couplers with higher performances new fabrication methods are indispensable. A cheap and effective way to produce couplers for POF communication systems is injection molding. The paper gives an overview of couplers available on market, compares their performances, and shows a way to produce couplers by means of injection molding.