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...
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...
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...
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...
QUESTION:
How can we figure out the ideal fiber height for 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...
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...
QUESTION:
Where can I get some information on SMA connector over polishing?
ANSWER:
For other types of actively used connectors, SMA for example, the design intent of this connector has a specific pre-polish length and final after-polish length of...
QUESTION:
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the different methods of cross-sectioning fiber optic connectors?
ANSWER:
All three methods of cross-sectioning fiber optic connectors have advantages and disadvantages highlighted here:
High...
QUESTION:
What is the ideal fiber height for a fiber optic connector?
ANSWER:
This is a common (and perplexing) question for many and driven by our industry’s various specifications for fiber height.
The specification dictated by IEC’s international...
QUESTION:
Which connector has the longest history?
ANSWER:
The first connector to be accepted as a widely used standard in the early days of the fiber optic industry, in the late 1970s, was designed by Amphenol in CT as a variation of their coaxial...
