Modeling and optimized design of a parabolic-profile single-mode fiber with ultra-low bending loss and large-mode-area

A novel parabolic-profile single-mode fiber with ultra-low bending loss and large-mode-area is proposed in this paper. A modified formula is derived for calculation of bending loss of parabolic-profile single-mode fiber and a performance index is defined as the ratio of bending loss to mode-field-diameter to evaluate fiber performance. The influences of fiber parameters on cutoff wavelength, bending loss and effective mode area are investigated systematically. Simulation results show that the parabolic-profile single-mode fiber could support both an ultra-low bending loss (0.052dB/turn at bending radii R=5mm) and a large effective mode area up to 260μm2 at 1.55μm, meanwhile maintaining single-mode operation rigorously (cutoff wavelength fixed at 1.26μm). This fiber is suitable for compact, portable high power fiber-to-the-home applications.