Optical Fiber Communications Cable Connector

摘要

A six channel hermaphroditic connector, which will function with 125 micron to 150 micron diameter optical fibers, has been designed, constructed and tested. The report includes the principal aspects of design, including the incorporation of the TRW Cinch Optalign 'double elbow' fiber alignment guide concept. Means for connecting either Siecor or ITT six fiber cable were developed. The use of ITT cable required the development of methods for stripping the jacket and buffer layer from each fiber, and applying a protective trimethylchlorosilane coating to retain inherent glass fiber strength. The rapid and simple connector assembly procedures for the final model are described, as well as the unique fiber scribe and cleave tool which was designed specifically for use with this connector. Typical insertion loss levels obtained with the ITT cable are approximately 1.0 dB, seldom greater than 1.5 dB. The results of vibration, thermal shock and mating durability tests are discussed. (Author)