ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses basic sensor configurations for converting a physical parameter to be measured, such as an electric or magnetic field, into an optical signal. In particular, this chapter presents the polarimetric sensing method, two beam interferometers (Mach-Zehnder, Michelson, and Sagnac interferometers) as well as the Fabry-Pérot interferometer. The influence of the shape and width of the light source spectrum on the coherence length and interference fringe visibility are also discussed. Finally, this chapter introduces essential components of relevant optical fiber sensors and gives typical component specifications. This includes light sources, fiber polarizers, directional couplers, phase modulators, isolators, rotators, fiber gratings, sensing materials, and others.
