Method and apparatus for packaging optical components

摘要

An optical package and methods for its use are disclosed. The optical package may suitably include a container and a rail that fit within the container for receiving a plurality of mounted optical components. The rail may be secured within the container so that neither the rail nor the received mounted optical components move within the container. The optical package may further have at least one optical fiber termination mounted to the end of the container that is in optical communication with the optical components within the container. In methods according to the present invention, the optical package may be used for the transportation, operation, manufacturing and rapid prototyping of optical systems.