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Removal of Coatings from Short Fiber in Certain Sections
QUESTION: We need to make short fiber with the coating removed in certain sections. Some coatings are hard to remove. Are there automated solutions for that? ANSWER: We work with 3SAE Technologies who has designed and manufactured a wide range of high performance...
The two wavelengths used for Insertion Loss testing
QUESTION: What are the two wavelengths used for Insertion Loss testing? ANSWER: In standard Singlemode cable assembly, the two wavelengths used for Insertion Loss testing are 1310nm and 1550nm. All Singlemode fibers work very similarly in either...
Specific reasons our industry has not been automating the production of connectors
QUESTION: Are there specific reasons our industry has not been automating the production of connectors? ANSWER: There are two key reasons our industry has not been automating the production of connectors: 1. We’ve been able to reduce the cost of making the...
Proper curing temperature profile
QUESTION: What is the proper curing temperature profile? ANSWER: In most cases, cable assembly manufacturers are curing by placing their room-temperature product into pre-heated curing ovens---quite a thermal shock. Based on our observations, it seems that...
The Importance of Etching in Chemical Mechanical Planarization(CMT) of MT Ferrules
QUESTION: Why is etching important in Chemical Mechanical Planarization of MT ferrules? ANSWER: The MT plastic material requires fibers to protrude between 1 to 3.5 microns in height. The only way to achieve this is to etch away the thermoset or...
Is fabricating fiber optic cable assemblies a manual or automated process?
QUESTION: Is fabricating fiber optic cable assemblies a manual or automated process? ANSWER: Fabricating fiber optic cable assemblies is still in large part a manual process, requiring knowledge and skill. When something in the process goes awry,...
Concerns with automation in the optical fiber industry
QUESTION: What are the concerns with automation in the optical fiber industry? ANSWER: One of the concerns with automation in the optical fiber industry is that you want a stable technology. Again, fusion splicing serves as a good example: when companies...
End-faces capped until final installation
Question: When a manufacturer inspects an end-face, is it immediately capped with a plastic dust cap that is not removed again until it is plugged into its final installation location by the installer? Answer: Yes and in theory, this ensures connectors will be...
Deciding which epoxy is the best for the application
QUESTION: Which epoxy is the best for my application? ANSWER: Fiber Optic Center offers several epoxies for single mode and multimode products. Refer to the “Chart of Epoxies for Single Fiber, Single Mode and Multimode Terminations” to review epoxy...
When Stripping Multi-layer Cables for Connectorization, Does Each Layer Need to be Stripped Individually?
QUESTION: When stripping multi-layer cables for connectorization, does each layer need to be stripped individually? ANSWER: It important to consider that when stripping multi-layer cables for connectorization, each layer must usually be stripped individually,...
Checking for crystallization vs. adjusting inspection process
QUESTION: Should we check for crystallization? Do we need to adjust our inspection process? ANSWER: Yes, here at Fiber Optic Center, we strongly encourage all our customers to actively look for crystallization in epoxy, since it’s a common occurrence. To avoid...
Establishing good cleaning techniques throughout the polishing process
QUESTION: How do we establish good cleaning techniques throughout the polishing process? ANSWER: Good cleaning techniques throughout your polishing process will directly impact the quality of your process and extend the life of the lapping film. This helps...
When purchasing lapping film, need additional resources like a customer service or on-line documentation for our questions
QUESTION: When purchasing lapping film, we need some additional resources like a customer service line or on-line documentation for our questions. Do you have that? ANSWER: When purchasing manufacturing materials, oftentimes, you simply place...
Why epoxy packages are not available of less than 2.5 or 2 grams
QUESTION: Why aren’t packages of less than 2.5 or 2 grams available? ANSWER: Some epoxy manufacturers offer 2.5-gram packages as their smallest quantity; one manufacturer offers a 2-gram package. When packaging the material, the manufacturers are mandated to...
How to Select the Right Epoxy for a New Application
QUESTION: How can I select the right epoxy for a new application? ANSWER: I’m happy to help you determine the epoxy that will work best for your application. Just send an email to me at KBarker@focenter.com and include answers to these questions: Can you tell me...
Why Isn’t There One Standard Polishing Process?
QUESTION: Why isn't there one standard polishing process? ANSWER: Here’s a key reason why we don’t have one standard polishing process: Single-fiber and multifiber ferrules are composed of different materials and have different shapes, diameters, hardness, and...
Epoxy information in the form of a matrix
QUESTION: Do you have epoxy information in the form of a matrix? ANSWER: FOC does have a Single Fiber, Single Mode and Multimode terminations matrix that can be found in the BLOG ARTICLE: Does epoxy cause core cracking? Tips to identify and prevent this...
Amount of water that should be used when polishing
QUESTION: How much water should we use when polishing? ANSWER: When fiber optic cable assembly houses set up a new polishing machine and establish their polishing process, they often find that film slipping or coming off the pad is an issue. To provide uniform...
When clean end-faces should be inspected at the installation site
QUESTION: I am pretty sure we are being provided clean end-faces, but should we be inspecting them at the installation site? ANSWER: It is always highly recommended to visually inspect the connector end-faces at the installation site, immediately prior to installing...
More detail about the bend test needed
QUESTION: In your blog, Good stripping techniques for your fiber optic cable assembly process, there is a tips for stripping tools called “First, Do No Harm” where you refer to a common 45-degree bend test method. Can you give more detail about the bend...
Considering the Tg when selecting an epoxy
QUESTION: Why do we need to consider the Tg when selecting an epoxy? ANSWER: One reason to consider the Tg is in selecting an epoxy that is appropriate for an application. For an application requiring a flexible epoxy, a low Tg, something below 0°C is...
The Most Common Issues Regarding APC Polishing Geometry, Please.
QUESTION: What are the most common issues regarding APC polishing geometry? ANSWER: To ensure optimum performance between mated pairs of APC connectors, it is important that the ferrule endface geometries meet or exceed industry-accepted endface geometry...
The advantage of using coated flock pile pads
QUESTION: What is the advantage of using coated flock pile pads? ANSWER: CMP flock pile pads have gone from being a good idea – but problematic – to becoming an advanced process that offers repeatable, predictable results. In the early days of MT process...
Epoxy past expiration
QUESTION: Our epoxy is past expiration – can it still be used? ANSWER: Fiber Optic Center recommends that you test the material before using it in your production process. Cure it to see if it sets as expected. However, it’s difficult to determine if it has,...
How precise epoxy packaging weights are
QUESTION: How precise are the epoxy packaging weights? ANSWER: The fiber optic world is driven by precision. If you purchase a 4-gram package, you can rely on getting 4 grams of epoxy. This is a data point to consider as you determine which package size best...
A Full Automation Solution in the Connector Assembly Process
QUESTION: Is there a full automation solution in the connector assembly process? ANSWER: When discussing automation solutions in the connector assembly process, we must talk frankly about the typical connectivity process. FOC’s President and CEO, Ben Waite,...
Common layers and what to consider when stripping
QUESTION: Does FOC have information on common layers and what to consider when stripping? ANSWER: Without question, good stripping techniques in your fiber optic cable assembly process are imperative. What happens if you damage the fiber during this production...
Does Fiber Optic Center Accept Returns of Crystallized Epoxies?
QUESTION: Does Fiber Optic Center accept returns of crystallized epoxies? ANSWER: It’s important to remember that there’s nothing wrong with the material. Since crystallized epoxy is not defective, we do not accept returns. Of course, if you encounter a different...
What are COATED flock pile pads and are there multiple choices for them?
QUESTION: What are COATED flock pile pads and are there multiple choices for them? ANSWER: Note that COATED flock pile pads have a chemical deposition on the fibers. The chemical choices for Ångström coated flock pile pads are: Aluminum oxide Cerium oxide...
On polymer plastics being isotropic
QUESTION: Are polymer plastics isotropic? ANSWER: Most polymer plastics are inherently isotropic (that is, that is they have no directionality in their optical properties). However, when formed in the injection molding process the polymer is melted, injected...
Using Epoxy That is Curing Differently and Having a Different Color
QUESTION: Our epoxy is curing differently and has a different color. Can I use it? ANSWER: Color variation from batch to batch is a non-issue. Since epoxies are manufactured in batches, the raw materials used by manufacturers to synthesize the epoxy are subject...
Tricks to keep the polishing film from moving
QUESTION: Is there a trick to keep the polishing film from moving? ANSWER: When fiber optic cable assembly houses set up a new polishing machine and establish their polishing process, they often find that film slipping or coming off the pad is...
Keeping scratches to a minimum after using final film
QUESTION: How can we keep scratches to a minimum after using final film? ANSWER: We usually request a visual image of one or more scratches as well as geometry measurements of the connectors in order to answer this question. With this information, we...
FOC step-by-step “instruction sheet” on polishing procedure
QUESTION: Does FOC have a step-by-step “instruction sheet” on polishing procedure? ANSWER: In a perfect world, there would be ONE polishing procedure. In this ideal world, you could follow a standard “recipe” to implement your fiber optic polishing process –...
Premixed, frozen epoxy: best for the process
QUESTION: Would premixed, frozen epoxy work better for my process? ANSWER: Our customers who use premixed, frozen epoxy report two major benefits: (1) No need to worry about improper mixing due to operator error. Epoxy that is overmixed, undermixed, or has...
ÅngströmLap polishing film and other brands
QUESTION: Does FOC have many customers using ÅngströmLap polishing film or are other brands more prevalent? ANSWER: Hundreds of fiber optic cable assembly facilities around the world use Fiber Optic Center’s ÅngströmLap polishing film, including multiple...
No changes in fiber optic cable assembly Measured IL and RL values and identifying something wrong with measurement equipment
QUESTION: We have had no changes in our fiber optic cable assembly production process, but the measured Insertion Loss (IL) and Return Loss (RL) values of our product aren’t as good as they were. Could there be something wrong with the measurement equipment? ...
In APC Polishing, is Conical or Step Ferrules More Expensive?
QUESTION: In APC polishing is conical or step ferrules more expensive? ANSWER: Of the two common ferrule shapes involved in APC polishing – conical and step – the step ferrule is by far the easiest in terms of controlling geometries. Step ferrules are more...
Advice for best-practice crimping techniques
QUESTION: What are the best practices for crimping techniques? ANSWER: The crimping process involves the connector body, a metal crimping sleeve (or ring), and the material to be clamped – normally this is the aramid yarns (also...
How to tell if the epoxy has “gone bad”
QUESTION: We have issues with crystallized epoxy: has the epoxy had “gone bad”? ANSWER: This question has come up so often, I have written article to educate our customers about crystallization in epoxies including information on: How this happens. Why the...
Process to follow if the step ferrules are not pre-angled
QUESTION: What is the process to follow if the step ferrules are not pre-angled? ANSWER: Polishing step ferrules: Angle cutting If the step ferrules are not pre-angled, you must, of course, create the angle as part of the polishing process. A good general...
What Chemical Mechanical Planarization is and how it is used in the fiber optic cable assembly process
QUESTION: What is Chemical Mechanical Planarization and how is it used in the fiber optic cable assembly process? ANSWER: CMP flock pile pads provide two functions in the polishing process for MT ferrules: The primary purpose is to etch away the thermoset or...
Concerns About How Crimping Impacts Cable Assembly and Optical Connections
QUESTION: Does crimping weaken the cable assembly and optical connection? ANSWER: Crimping – a small but mighty step in the production process – strengthens the cable assembly and protects the fiber. Proper crimping techniques help to ensure the optical...
Crystals in epoxy and what it means
QUESTION: I found crystals in our epoxy. Does this mean it has gone bad? ANSWER: Crystallization in epoxies can look like salt granules in the otherwise clear liquid. Or the epoxy may look foggy, milky, or grainy. Or it may have solidified. Rest assured,...
Safely disposing of epoxy
QUESTION: How do you safely dispose of epoxy? ANSWER: Once it cures and hardens, epoxy can be thrown away in regular waste. Think of it this way: You must allow a gallon of house paint to dry and harden before throwing it out. Liquid epoxy can be hazardous,...
Ensure maximum life and performance of the fiber optic polishing fixture
QUESTION: How can one ensure maximum life and performance of the fiber optic polishing fixture? ANSWER: Following up the ultrasonic cleaning with brushing of the ferrule bores and blowing dry with clean, compressed air will help to ensure maximum life and...
How To Achieve Target Fiber Height of +/- 20 Nanometers
QUESTION: How do you achieve the target fiber height of +/-20 nanometers? ANSWER: Today, fiber height is the easiest geometry parameter to control. How do you achieve the target fiber height of +/-20 nanometers? The tightened tolerance of +/-20 is surprisingly...
How can some patch cords show ‘gain’ ?
QUESTION: When measured on my properly calibrated IL/RL meter, some of my patch cords show ‘gain.’ How can this be possible? Since a patch cord cannot have gain, is there something wrong with the instrument? ANSWER: If your IL/RL meter is properly...
Why bond line thickness is important
QUESTION: Why is bond line thickness important? ANSWER: Proper bond line thickness ensures you’ll achieve the adhesive properties AND performance specified in the epoxy’s datasheet. If there is inadequate bond line thickness, the risks include low strength...
Why connectivity has become so important
QUESTION: Why has connectivity become so important? ANSWER: When looking at the bigger picture of our industry, it has become clear that cabling and connectivity go hand-in-hand as a SYSTEM. Connectivity is integral to helping our industry do more – and do...
Cleanliness: improving epoxy work surfaces
QUESTION: Since cleanliness counts, how can I improve my epoxy work surface? ANSWER: The pot life on epoxy starts the moment the two parts are mixed. This means you need to plan your work, and have everything you need at your fingertips. Here’s a...
Package sizes of epoxy right for my process
QUESTION: Which package size of epoxy is right for my process? ANSWER: I often encourage my customers to consider purchasing 4-gram packages of epoxy – if this size supports their process. Briefly, here’s why I recommend the 4-gram package: Higher...
Deciding on MT thermoset or thermoplastic ferrules in cable assemblies
QUESTION: We are considering using MT thermoset or thermoplastic ferrules in our cable assemblies. What do we need to know before deciding? ANSWER: A development that can improve your polishing process is Fiber Optic Center’s Ångström polishing...
Adjusting APC polishing process to modify characteristics of the geometry and achieve consistent accuracy
QUESTION: How can you adjust your APC polishing process to modify characteristics of the geometry and achieve consistent accuracy? ANSWER: APC polishing issues could derive from problems with mechanics (materials or equipment) or the polishing process...
Why crystallization happens
QUESTION: Why does crystallization happen? ANSWER: Simply put, the liquid resin is fighting to return to its natural state, which is a solid form. Crystallization in epoxies is so common that major manufacturers have written datasheets on the subject. According...
How Long Has the Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP) Polishing Process Been Used?
QUESTION: How long has Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP) polishing process been used? ANSWER: We have been watching the development of Chemical Mechanical Planarization (CMP) since the 1980s, when this polishing process was first used in the semiconductor...
Advancements in connectivity important and new designs so inevitable
QUESTION: Why are advancements in connectivity important and new designs so inevitable? ANSWER: For years, connectivity in the cable industry was considered a “throw it over the wall” issue with a focus on leaving the problem to others who then became...
Specific routines for fiber optic network installation
QUESTION: Is there a specific routine for fiber optic network installation? ANSWER: When a fiber optic network is installed, a specific installation routine must be followed in order to have a quick and error-free operational network. It’s helping to keep this phrase...
Recommended minimum bond line thickness
QUESTION: What is the recommended minimum bond line thickness? ANSWER: A general guideline for minimum bond line thickness is between 25 to 150 microns (1 to 6 mils) – as a starting point. I recommend you choose a certain level to start, then make a few thicker...
Allergic issues on some specific epoxy products
QUESTION: How do we get information about allergic issues on some of the specific epoxy products you sell? ANSWER: By reading the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) prior to handling, which is available for each hazardous product supplied, you can review general health...
Withstanding the pulling that occurs during final production and installation after the crimp step
QUESTION: After crimping, is the cable assembly able to withstand the pulling that occurs during final production and installation? ANSWER: When properly crimped, the cable assembly has the strength to withstand a reasonable amount of pulling that occurs...
What if you continually have problems with epoxy mixing?
QUESTION: What if you continually have problems with epoxy mixing? ANSWER: In my time at Fiber Optic Center, I’ve noticed a trend. Sometimes when an epoxy-related issue emerges, there’s an assumption that the epoxy has an inaccurate mix ratio or is defective....
Finding a step by step for crimping techniques
QUESTION: Are crimping techniques an actual step by step that needs to be followed and does it make a difference if we are slightly inconsistent with part of the process? ANSWER: During the fiber termination process, proper crimping techniques are critical to ensure...
Can Objects Contact the Bottom or Sidewalls of the Ultrasonic Bath When Cleaning Polishing Fixtures?
QUESTION: Can objects contact the bottom or sidewalls of the ultrasonic bath when cleaning polishing fixtures? ANSWER: It is important to note that the cavitation is created by physical movement of the side walls of the cleaner, and that most ultrasonic...
Easiest way to load a syringe with a mixed package of epoxy
QUESTION: What’s the easiest way to load a syringe with a mixed package of epoxy? ANSWER: It’s important to have BOTH HANDS available to do the job. This means your syringes should be clean, ready to use, and positioned for loading. I recommend using a test...
Using Extremely Small Quantities of Epoxy and Reducing Waste
QUESTION: We use extremely small quantities of epoxy. How can we reduce waste? ANSWER: I suggest you purchase the smallest package available, mix Part A and Part B, dispense all the material into syringes, and use what you need immediately. A favorite tip: As...
Overmixing epoxy advice
QUESTION: Our technicians might be overmixing epoxy. What advice can you give us? ANSWER: If you mix too vigorously, you can trap air in the material and introduce bubbles. In the production process, it’s important to dispense a drop of epoxy – not a bubble. So...
Does fiber height variation increase when overall fiber heights increases?
QUESTION: Does fiber height variation increase when overall fiber heights increases? ANSWER: Usually, fiber height variation increases as overall fiber heights increase. That is, the lower your overall fiber height, the lower your fiber variation (and thus...
Minimizing epoxy material waste and reducing costs
QUESTION: How can we minimize epoxy material waste and reduce costs? ANSWER: Recommendations to adjust your epoxy process, which can minimize material waste and reduce costs Here are two ideas to alter your epoxy-related production process. These process...
What should attenuation values at the splice points be in fiber-optic cables?
QUESTION: What should attenuation values at the splice points be in fiber-optic cables? ANSWER: A good splice should have an attenuation of less than 0.3 dB over the entire distance. Many factors need to be observed and considered. The FOC Technical...
Common connector issues to be on alert for
QUESTION: What are common connector issues that we should be on alert for? ANSWER: 5 common connector issues include: Connectors with high Return Loss Connectors with no light transmission Connectors with intermittent and non-repeatable readings Connectors...
If the epoxy has filler or glass beads, will that interfere with the strength of the bond – and create the need for a thicker bond line?
QUESTION: If the epoxy has filler or glass beads, will that interfere with the strength of the bond – and create the need for a thicker bond line? ANSWER: If an epoxy has a filler or glass beads, the manufacturer has included the filler for a reason. The filler...
When it is Worth Re-cleaning a Connector After Installation
QUESTION: Is it worth re-cleaning a connector after installation? ANSWER: If you are an installer or planning an installation, of fiber optic cable assemblies ----keep in mind the cost and pain that can be (and almost always IS) involved in re-cleaning a connector...
Overmixing epoxy concerns
QUESTION: What happens if you overmix epoxy? ANSWER: The possibility of overmixing is more likely. The goal is to thoroughly blend Part A and Part B with minimal bubbles. (In the production process, you don’t want to dispense a bubble instead of drop of epoxy.)...
Verifying that epoxy processes are appropriate for the product
QUESTION: How can one verify that epoxy processes are appropriate for the product? ANSWER: The only way to verify that epoxy processes are appropriate for the product is through destructive product testing during process development. And since destructive...
Different ways to terminate an optical fiber which is tight buffered
QUESTION: How many different ways are there to terminate an optical fiber which is tight buffered and where can I find more information on each? ANSWER: There are many different ways to terminate an optical fiber which is tight buffered. Several are most...
Static mixers recommended for fiber optic epoxies?
QUESTION: Is a static mixer the recommendation for fiber optic epoxies? ANSWER: Almost all epoxies used in fiber optics are two part and have dissimilar mix ratios. This, coupled with the relatively small amount of material being applied, means a static mixer...
The main applications and industries for optical fiber other than communication networks
QUESTION: What are the main applications and industries for optical fiber other than communication networks? ANSWER: Optical fiber is used for many applications in almost every industry. Most common application is within cabled structures that are used for...
If a fiber is damaged during stripping, will it affect the finished product?
QUESTION: If a fiber is damaged during stripping, will it affect the finished product? ANSWER: A fiber that has been damaged during stripping may not break under normal handing during production assembly, but the defect remains in the finished product—–a...
For benchtop microscopes, what types of contamination are they best suited to identify?
QUESTION: For benchtop microscopes, what types of contamination are they best suited to identify? ANSWER: Cleanliness can describe both permanent defects (example: cracks) and loose contamination defects (example: dirt, dust, cleaning solvent residues)....
Reducing the risk of dermatitis when working with epoxies
QUESTION: How can we reduce the risk of dermatitis when working with epoxies? ANSWER: To reduce the risk of either of these types of dermatitis, let’s begin with a common phrase: SAFETY FIRST. It is important to prepare and protect yourself from coming in...
The advantages of SMA connectors over others
QUESTION: What are the advantages of SMA connectors over others? ANSWER: There are advantages that SMAs have, which are not shared by their more modern and recent connector style cousins: Doctors are familiar, and comfortable, working with SMAs on lasers...
When cleaning polishing fixtures, does the entire object need to be submerged in an ultrasonic bath?
QUESTION: When cleaning polishing fixtures, does the entire object need to be submerged in an ultrasonic bath? ANSWER: Because the cavitation occurs within the water medium only, it is important that the entire object be submerged, with no air bubbles...
Can Small Amounts of Epoxy Inside the Ferrule be Observed After Curing?
QUESTION: Can small amounts of epoxy inside the ferrule be observed after curing? ANSWER: Too little epoxy inside the ferrule CANNOT be observed / tested-for after curing. Therefore, processes and controls MUST be implemented which ensure consistent and...
Different types of standards for MT/MPO measurements using interferometry
QUESTION: What are the different types of standards for MT/MPO measurements using interferometry? ANSWER: There are two types of IEC standards for MT/MPO measurements using interferometry. The first is the “Measurement Standard” and its primary purpose is to...
Determining the Right Amount of Epoxy in the Connector
QUESTION: How much is enough or the right amount of epoxy in the connector? ANSWER: The answer is dependent on internal connector design, fiber diameters, epoxy type and application methods. For detailed information on internal connector design, the fiber diameters...
Causes of the Apex of a Radius to be Imperfect, Off-center
QUESTION: What causes the Apex of a radius to be imperfect, to be off-center? ANSWER: Angles do. Angles create Apex Offset. Apex Offset is the result of polishing at an angle. The ferrule being at an angle to the polishing surface during polishing (for...
How to decide which passive component tester to purchase
QUESTION: How do we decide which passive component tester to purchase? ANSWER: The passive component tester (PCT) – must be correctly configured by the seller to support your product requirements. Start by answering these 7 foundational questions. This will...
For epoxy bi-packs, what are the typical package sizes?
QUESTION: We are a fiber optic cable assembly manufacturer. For epoxy bi-packs, what are the typical package sizes? ANSWER: For fiber optic cable assembly manufacturers, bi-packs of 2.5-gram and 4-gram are typical package sizes for epoxy. While these packages...
When working with epoxies, are there different types of skin irritations or allergies?
QUESTION: When working with epoxies, are there different types of skin irritations or allergies? ANSWER: The two types of Contact Dermatitis are Irritant and Allergic: Irritant Contact Dermatitis is an inflammatory reaction that occurs after damage to...
Options for troubleshooting why a connector failed
QUESTION: How many options are there for troubleshooting why a connector failed? ANSWER: There are 4 diagnostic methods that can help to troubleshoot why a connector failed. They are: In-house optical diagnostic process and tools X-ray inspection services...
Ideal fiber height for fiber optic connectors: how to figure that out
QUESTION: How can we figure out ideal fiber height for a fiber optic connectors? ANSWER: In reality, there is no ideal fiber height. I recommend aiming for a target fiber height of +/-20 nanometers. I have personally pursued the question – What is the ideal...
To ensure proper bond line thickness
QUESTION: How do you ensure proper bond line thickness? ANSWER: Plan to test your bond line thickness – and other epoxy processes – to ensure they are optimal for your application. Remember this rule of thumb: “The application dictates.” When developing a new...
What is the Recommended Needle Size to Dispense Epoxy?
QUESTION: What is the recommended needle size to dispense epoxy? ANSWER: With so many unique applications as well as connector sizes, the answer to this question truly does depend on your application. Needles range in gauge size and length; some have a tapered...
Decreasing and increasing Radius values
QUESTION: How can you decrease and increase Radius values? ANSWER: Generally speaking, the smaller your average Radius value, the smaller the deviation in results will be. It is usually a good idea to aim for the lower end of the Radius specification rather...
Guidance for developing a fiber optic polishing process
QUESTION: Do you have guidance for developing a fiber optic polishing process? ANSWER: While there are many details to consider when developing a fiber optic polishing process, it comes down to 5 basic steps: Step 1. Define your objectives, especially...
What Industries Need a Fiber Optic SMA Today?
QUESTION: What industries need a fiber optic SMA today? ANSWER: If you remove the communications applications and markets for fiber optic connectors, what is left?: something less than .1% of the market. What are the applications? Medical: laser delivery for...
For Bi-Directional Testing: Run the Test in Both Direction and not Have to Swap the Cable and Run the Test Again?
QUESTION: For Bi-Directional testing, can I run the test in both direction and not have to swap the cable and run the test again? ANSWER: It’s fair to say most assembly houses test the optical loss of a single mated pair using a launch cable connected to the...
A Real Need for 3D Printing Polishing Film Beyond Sandpaper
QUESTION: Is there a real need for 3D printing polishing film beyond sandpaper? ANSWER: There is a need for 3D printing polishing film. This fine-grit, abrasive material provides a smooth, mirror-polish finish – well above and beyond sandpaper. As experts in...
How many categories there are for buffered fibers
QUESTION: How many categories are there for buffered fibers? ANSWER: As one looks at individually buffered fibers there are two general categories. First a loose tube which is typically a large rigid tube whose ID is many times the diameter of the coated...
