The global consumption value of component-level fiber optic attenuators is projected to reach $427.8 million in 2021, according to a market forecast from ElectroniCast Consultants. During the forecast period, the value is expected to increase at an average annual growth rate of 4.7 percent from 2015’s figure of $323.8 million. “The use of variable optical attenuators (VOAs) with optical switching is contributing to the steady increase of this particular component,” said Stephen Montgomery, director of the fiber optics group at ElectroniCast. “A critical functional area in fiber optic communication includes optical switching and VOAs; therefore, the increase in 100 G is contributing to the increase demand of VOAs in both the telecommunication and datacom segments.” ElectroniCast Consultants specializes in forecasting trends in technology forecasting, markets and applications forecasting, strategic planning and consulting.