Do I need a rugged connector for my optical fiber?

Optical fiber can be found just about anywhere, on building sites, communications and server rooms. Transmitting information over distances at the literal speed of light, it's the perfect way to get the job done. There is though, the increase in demand for communications in harsh environments, naturally, this leads to the need for tougher fiber optic connectors.

Before deploying a solution, engineers will need to consider the realities of the environment in which the connectors will be placed.

Is it likely that your connector will be exposed to these conditions?

• Dirt and dust
• Muddy environments
• Exposure to water, including splashes and submersion
• Sunlight, including direct rays
• High and low freezing temperatures
• Exposure to marine environments
• Connections that are pulled, dropped and bumped

The choice of a rugged optical fiber connector that is resistant to water, high and low temperatures, and dust will be one that will return in terms of investment. The large amount that can build up over the years due to downtimes, maintenance costs, damage, and contamination can be prevented by the connector. By giving security of the connection this means you also eliminate the need for any other protection including bulky enclosures.

So, If the answer is yes to any one of these points, it’s essential to consider all the options on the table to make the optical fiber connection more impervious to the elements.

Being that there are different types of rugged connectors on the market, the choice of the connector should be one that gives the best type of protection required for a specific application. One important factor would lie in choosing a rugged connector with a standardized connection that does not require specialist equipment or engineers to terminate the connections.

Bulgin’s 4000 Series Fiber connector is the smallest sealed standard interface connector on the market. The fiber connection is UV resistant, salt spray resistant and sealed to IP66, IP68, and IP69K, while still providing an industry-standard LC interface as specified by IEC 61754-20.

The connector and its housing can be completely immersed in water up to a depth of 10 meters, for a period of up to two weeks (based on IP68 rating tests), without allowing water to gain access to the conduit and hence potentially to freeze and damage the fiber. The connector can also handle temperatures from -25 to +70c and protects the fiber against dirt and dust.

For duplex fiber connections the 6000 Series Fiber would be most fitting. Like the 4000 Series Fiber, the 6000 Series Fiber connector is suited for outdoor broadcasting, FTTx, server room engineering, civil engineering, and aviation & rail applications.

The 6000 Series Fiber is designed for years of services in areas where unprotected physical contact fiber, isn’t an option. Featuring a secure, yet easy to operate 30-degree locking mechanism, this series has field-proven IP68 and IP69K performance.

In comparison to the simplex 4000 Series Fiber connector, the additional glass fiber on this duplex cable can double the data transmission capabilities where required.

4000 Series Fiber simplex & 6000 Series Fiber duplex connectors

6000 Series Fiber product code: PXF6050

4000 Series Fiber product code: PXF4050

For more product information please visit: bulgin.com

You can also visit Bulgin’s Connectivity Community for expert advice and questions.