High-density fiber-optic connector simplifies
backplane system packaging

Array connector system provides up to 12 fiber interconnections
in less space than a single SC connector

Based on MT ferrule technology, a fiber-optic array connector system increases interconnection density for backplane-based telecommunications and data networking systems. The connector makes a fiber-optic backplane practical.

AMP Inc. (Harrisburg, PA) has designed a new high-density array fiber-optic connector system, called Lightray MPX, which provides up to 12 fiber interconnections in less space than a single SC connector. The system permits pluggable board-to-board interconnections, thus making it easier to create flexible backplane-based fiber-optic systems for telecommunications and data networking applications.

According to Robert Weber, product manager for the Lightray MPX line, the connector makes it possible for the first time to create a fiber-optic backplane offering the same plug-in convenience that electrical backplanes have long provided. The connector system allows fiber-optic transceivers to be placed anywhere on the board, not just on the board's edge.

Providing up to 12 fiber interconnections
in less space than a single SC connector,
the Lightray MPX connector system from
AMP simplifies the creation of fiber-optic
backplane systems.

A typical MPX application uses a cable assembly interfacing transceivers on a daughterboard to a board-to-backplane interconnection. The backside of the interconnection runs from the backplane to an I/O patch panel.

Based on existing MT ferrule technology, the connector is designed to meet Bellcore GR-1435 requirements. It accommodates fibers on 250-µm centers and can be stacked on 10-mm centers. Typical insertion loss is 0.5 dB for single- and multimode connectors, and single-mode reflection loss is –50 dB.

To provide tolerant blindmating, the connectors use a housing on both the daughtercard and backplane. The housings unload the daughtercard of any mating forces and provide float to accommodate mating misalignment. The connectors handle boards up to 9 mm thick and accept misalignment tolerances of ±2.0 mm horizontally, ±2.5 mm vertically, and ±2° angularly.

The connectors are mated using a bulkhead or pc-board-mounted adapter. No mounting hardware is required to attach the connector to pc boards.

AMP is offering factory-terminated cable assemblies in various standard and custom configurations, including MPX-to-MPX assemblies and MPX fanout assemblies. A coupling adapter is also available for MPX-to-MPX mating in patch panels, bulkheads, and other applications not requiring a board-to-board connection. For more information, call Allan Sappe of AMP Inc.at 717-986-5160.