MEMS Variable Optical Attenuator (VOA)

The MEMS Variable Optical Attenuator (VOA) is intended for optical systems and test platforms where optical power must be adjusted rather than held at one fixed attenuation value. Its variable attenuation function allows the device to be integrated into measurement, receiver evaluation and optical power-control paths where different signal levels need to be applied during operation or testing.

For system integration, the optical and control requirements need to be specified together. Operating wavelength, required attenuation range and fiber configuration determine how the VOA fits the optical path, while the control method and termination format determine how it connects to the equipment or test platform. Matching only the attenuation function is therefore not enough to define the complete device configuration.

In repeated test systems or equipment builds, the same wavelength range, attenuation requirement, control arrangement and fiber termination should be maintained across the VOA configuration. This helps keep optical power adjustment and system integration consistent when the same measurement or equipment architecture is reproduced across multiple units.

For applications requiring only a predetermined attenuation value, see our Fiber Optic Attenuators. For optical-module and equipment-side applications where controlled received power is part of the test path, see our Optical Transceivers.

MEMS Variable Optical Attenuator Specifications

For system integration, the working wavelength, attenuation requirement, control method, fiber type and optical termination should be defined against the target equipment or test platform.

For repeated equipment or test-platform deployment, the approved optical and control configuration should remain consistent across the required VOA units so the same attenuation and interface design can be reproduced throughout the system.