Effects of joints on mode power distribution and losses in multimode optical fibres

The transformation of mode power distribution at a joint between two different (even elliptical) optical fibres is studied. Simple analytical expressions are obtained also in the most general coupling and mismatch configuration, provided that coupling errors and mismatch parameters are small. Detailed calculations of joint losses are performed in each case, including propagation effects in both fibres. Original results are obtained particularly in the cases of misalignment, end separation between the fibres, mismatches in index profiles and coupling between two elliptical fibres. A strong dependence on the launching conditions and the amount of mode coupling is evidenced in all cases.