TE Connectivity has released new single mode and multimode variations of its EB16 expanded beam optical pin and socket termini, based on an updated design that includes springless mating and crimpless cable retention.
EB16 termini are ideal for a variety of demanding military, aerospace, and industrial applications, such as fixed-wing and rotary UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), UGVs (unmanned ground vehicles), and communications and sensor systems.
EB16 termini are built on TE’s PRO BEAM expanded beam connector technology, which expands and collimates the optical signal into a much larger beam than its original size in order to provide easier optical alignment, low sensitivity to contamination and consistent performance over thermal changes. Performance is improved and resistance to damage from shock and vibration is increased by separating the optical components by an airgap and removing physical contact.
These new optical single mode and multimode pin and socket termini are drop-in replacements for the MIL-PRF-29504 /4 and /5 physical contact termini used in many ruggedized circular connector systems. The mated termini engagement length is more than two times deeper than the standard MIL-PRF-29504 /4 and /5, which helps improve stability and performance during vibration. EB16 termini are designed to be highly versatile, and fit standard D38999 size 16 cavities, with compliance with MIL-DTL-38999 Series I and Series III connectors, as well as the MIL-STD-1760 connector.
The termini also include features that compensate for inherent connector mating misalignments. For a D38999 size 25-37 connector fully loaded with termini, the springless termini can reduce the total axial connector mating force by approximately 150 lbf. The Return Loss (RL) of the multimode products is now comparable to that of the single mode design. In addition, crimp eyelets and the need for a crimp tool have been eliminated; therefore, reducing overall termination time and labor.
Gregory Ristau, product line manager for TE’s Aerospace, Defense and Marine division, commented: “For customers who need the performance of a non-contacting optical interface, TE now offers them the new single mode and multimode EB16 options.”
