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Why do we need fiber optic isolator?

Light can be reflected back and forth. This is also true in fiber optic communication networks. But in fiber optic networks, most of the reflections are harmful to the stability of the system which is especially true for lasers.

Laser is essentially a resonant cavity between two semi-transparent mirrors. The lasing process happens between these two mirrors. The lasing process is very delicate and can be easily interfered. If back-reflected and scattered light enters into the laser, the lasing process will fluctuate and the output power of the laser will fluctuate.

So that is where fiber optic isolator comes to play. Optical isolators are devices that transmit light only in one direction. They play a vital role in fiber optic systems by stopping back-reflection and scattered light from reaching sensitive components, particularly lasers.

How do optical isolators work?

The inside workings of optical isolators depend on polarization. An isolator is composed of a pair of linear polarizers and a Faraday rotator.

The two linear polarizers are oriented so the planes in which they polarize light are 45

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