Three-step index strictly single-mode, only F-doped silica fibers for broad-band low dispersion

A three-step index (or triple-clad) fiber with low dispersion (within ± 3 ps/(km.nm)) in the broad wavelength range between 1.32 and 1.70 μm was realized. The fiber characteristics show low sensitivity to bending. Strictly single-mode behavior is demonstrated by single-bend excess loss and OTDR results. Broad-band low-splice attentuation was experimentally achieved.