Rugged hermaphroditic single-terminus connector

摘要

A rugged simplex hermaphroditic connector has been developed for use in tactical fiber-optic applications such as radar, radio remoting, and various robotic systems. The single-terminus connector is intended for use wherever bi-directional transmission is required. It was designed to operate while meeting severe environmental and mechanical conditions experienced in the field. Both multimode and single-mode designs of the connector have been developed. Connectors have insertion loss of less than 1 dB when installed on either 50/125 $mu@m multimode fiber or single-mode fiber. In addition to low loss and ruggedness, connector design features include cable retention hardware, which requires neither special tools nor adhesives, waterproofing seals, and ease of cleaning without special kits. The connector was designed to accommodate existing tactical cables whose diameters range from 2.5 to 4.0 mm, and is capable of withstanding tensile loads up to 1335 newtons. Operating temperature range is from $MIN@46$DGR@C to 71$DGR@C; storage temperature extremes are $MIN@57$DGR@C and 85$DGR@C. The new connector is small, being only 1.4 cm in diameter and 8.6 cm long, including bend limiter. It weighs less than 30 gm. A complimentary bulkhead receptacle is equally rugged and may be mounted on panels up to 6.4 mm thick. EMI shielding has been incorporated in the unit.