EB16 Optical Single and Multimode Termini

TE Connectivity (TE) has developed a rugged expanded-beam optical termini consisting of a single-mode (SM) and multimode (MM) EB16. The EB16 termini are size 16 optical contacts and are fit-form compliant with the MIL-DTL-38999 Series I and Series III and MIL-STD-1760 lanyard release size 16 AWG cavity. These termini are drop-in replacements for the MIL-PRF-29504/4 and /5 physical contact termini used in many ruggedized circular connector systems and can also be used in a hybrid combination with power contacts. The ball lenses of the pin and socket termini expand and collimate the optical signal into a beam size well beyond its original size to provide easier optical alignment, low sensitivity to contamination, and consistent performance over thermal changes. The beam traverses the interface airgap from the transmission side and is then refocused back into the core of the receiving fiber. The beam area is expanded approximately 150 times between lenses with limited signal deterioration by airborne contamination particles of the same size that affect the performance of the PC connection. The terminus’s end-face is easily cleaned.