Hybrid components are those that combine the functionality of a tap coupler, WDM, and/or an isolator into one component. The components benefit by reducing component space within assemblies and fewer splices. Some of these hybrid variations are also polarization-maintaining. When polarization-maintaining comes to hybrid variations, they are known as PM hybrid components.

Features of PM Hybrid Components 

  • High extinction ratio
  • High isolation
  • Low insertion loss
  • High return loss
  • High cost

Use of PM Hybrid Components 

  • Fiber lasers
  • Fiber amplifiers
  • Fiber optic systems
  • Fiber optic test equipment

Some combinations of PM Hybrid Components 

  • PM Tap coupler-isolator hybrid 

1550nm Tap Coupler/Isolator Hybrid combination 

This PM hybrid combination of coupler and isolator comes in a compact package. Here, all the input and output fibers are polarization-maintaining. The component/product has an extremely low insertion loss, a very stable tap-coupling ratio, high isolation, and high return loss. The primary use of the product is that it offers integrated solutions to amplifier applications by combining more functions into a very compact package.

  • PM WDM-isolator hybrid 

2050/1570nm polarization maintaining WDM/Isolator hybrid combination 

This combination of a wavelength division multiplexer and isolator in a compact package features an extremely low insertion loss, a very stable tap-coupling ratio, high isolation, and high return loss with all polarization-maintaining input and output fibers. These are used for several amplifier functions on both small and large scales.

  • PM Tap coupler-WDM-isolator hybrid

Just like other PM hybrid component combinations discussed above, the combination of a Tap coupler, wavelength division multiplexer, and an isolator in a compact package features extremely low insertion loss, a very stable tap-coupling ratio, high isolation, and high return loss. For amplifier applications, these components offer integrated solutions by combining more functions into a very compact package.

These are just an example of each combination. There are more PM hybrid components in every category with different wavelengths. But, the features are nearly the same. You should pick the components based on your wavelength requirements.

Are there standard configurations for PM hybrid components?

Standard configurations of PM hybrid components are possible because their uses are wide. Many manufacturers and suppliers deal in standard configured PM hybrid components, which might not meet your needs. But, some manufacturers offer custom hybrid components.

One of the popular names is DK Photonics. If you think PM hybrid components from the standard configurations won’t meet your needs, you should connect with our experts. We will review your desired specification and quote a custom hybrid component. For example, custom pigtail fiber accommodation, custom operational wavelengths, tap ratios, and power handling requirements.

PM hybrid components are beneficial. So, choose wisely.