Netprom attenuated patch cords are used to attenuate the optical signal in a link. Attenuated patch cords can be installed in place of conventional patch cords to provide a constant level of attenuation with a return loss of ≥50dB. The attenuated patch cord can be used to replace the conventional cable assembly and attenuator combination. It is a compact, multi- purpose, passive device designed to operate at wavelengths of 1310 and 1550nm. Attenuated patch cords can be provided with LC, SC, ST and FC connector styles as per customer requirements.