What is the role of a "coupler" in fiber optics?

The role of a coupler in fiber optics is primarily to combine or split optical signals between different fibers. Couplers are essential components used in optical networks for managing signal distribution efficiently. When light signals travel through fiber optic cables, they may need to be directed to multiple paths or combined from different sources, which is where couplers come in. They function by allowing multiple optical fibers to connect together, either merging their paths to increase signal strength or dividing signals to distribute them across various outputs.

This capability is vital in various applications, including telecommunications, data centers, and sensor systems, where managing signal flow without significant loss or degradation is crucial. By utilizing couplers, network designers can optimize the performance and scalability of fiber optic systems, enabling agile configurations that meet various communication needs.