Fiber Optic Interconnects

The increasing performance demands and density requirements of many applications have driven the need for more rugged optical connectors. As with many products, rugged is in the eye of the beholder. In one case, especially for optical connectors, rugged can simply mean more robust and not easily damaged.

In a stricter definition of rugged, sealed for dust and moisture protection would certainly qualify. Ultimately, designed for military and oil field operations provides a dramatic demonstration of rugged. Here are examples of each of these more rugged approaches to fiber optic connectors.

Rugged Optical Connector

For rugged applications such as military and oil fields, Tyco's PRO BEAM expanded-beam optical connectors take a different approach for fiber connectivity. Instead of mating two fiber ends together, the expanded-beam technology seals and protects each fiber face and ferrule behind a spherical lens. The source lens transmits light expanded to more than 14 times the original diameter for multimode fiber and 45 times for single-mode fiber. The receiving lens refocuses the light for further transmission in the receiving fiber. This interface provides a robust and reliable connection that can withstand vibration, temperature extremes and mating cycles, as well as dust and debris without performance degradation. In addition, the connectors clean quickly and easily in service without disassembly, special tools or cleaning materials, minimizing the potential to damage the fiber's face. Targeting ARINC 600 and MIL-C-38999 Series III applications, the connectors come in a large form factor (PRO BEAM Sr.), as a direct replacement for TFOCA-II legacy connectors (PRO BEAM Jr.) and with diameters as small at 0.8 inch (PRO BEAM Mini).

http://rbi.ims.ca/5406-532

Optical Industrial Connectors

With the addition of its multi-fiber push-on connector (MPO) and subscriber connector (SC), Molex provides two new IP67-rated options. In addition to dust and moisture protection, these sealed multi-fiber and single-fiber connectors operate over a temperature range of -40 to 85C and work with any standard fiber type. The removable connector seals between the adapter mating surface, as well as the cable exiting the connector. Both single-fiber SC and 8 to 12 fibers in the MPO version connect easily and securely using a bayonet-style mechanical latch. A bulkhead adapter simplifies enclosure installation. Designed for harsh industrial environments, the connectors target industrial, medical equipment and telecommunications/CATV, as well as various rugged test equipment and food-processing applications.

http://rbi.ims.ca/5406-531

Circular Fiber Connector

Molex Inc.'s 1-by-3 Circular MT Connector and adapter provide improved alignment benefits, increased pull-strength and enhanced fiber management for connecting optical fiber. Compared to traditional ribbon-based optical connectors, the unit's metal housing and stainless-steel push/twist locking ring mean a more robust MT ferrule-based interface. The connector's housing has a deep, polarized mating cavity to reduce alignment-pin hole damage that may occur with traditional MT connector systems. To provide 360 degree rotation, the connector is offered as a terminated cable assembly using 36 to 72 loose fibers in a single round ruggedized cable. To meet specific design and installation requirement, additional features including cable management clips, shutters, removal tabs and cleaning tools. Designed to meet or exceed the mechanical specifications of traditional inter-chassis connections, the connectors target telecommunications, military and medical applications. http://rbi.ims.ca/5406-533