Handbook for Sound Engineers

Transmission Techniques: Fiber Optics 473

15.9.3.10 MT-RJ Connector

The MT-RJ SSF connector was designed by AMP, Inc.
(now TYCO) and uses the familiar RJ latching mecha-
nism found in copper systems, but the MT-RJ latch is
inherently snag-proof. The single ferrule design of the
MT-RJ connector reduces the time and complication of
assembly by enabling two-fiber terminations
simultaneously.

15.9.3.11 OpticalCon®

Most recent on the market is the OpticalCon® connec-

tor developed and introduced in 2006 by Neutrik AG.

The OpticalCon® fiber optic connection system con-

sists of a ruggedized all-metal, dust- and dirt-protected

chassis and cable connector to increase the reliability.

The system is based on a standard optical LC-Duplex

connection; however, the OpticalCon® improves this

original design to ensure a safe and rugged connection.

Due to the compatibility with conventional LC connec-

tors, it offers the choice of utilizing a cost-effective LC

connector as a permanent connection, or Neutrik’s rug-

ged OpticalCon® cable connector for mobile applica-

tions, Fig. 15-32.

15.9.3.12 Toslink

The Toslink connector was developed by Toshiba of

Japan in 1983 and is a registered trademark. This con-

nector was originally designed for a plastic optical fiber

of 1 mm diameter. The actual connector/adapter is of a

square construction with newer types having a protec-

tive flip cap to close the connector adapter when no

plug is mated. Also this connector is referred to as JIS

FO5 (JIS C5974-1993 FO5) in a simplex type and JIS

FO7 for the duplex version, Fig. 15-33.

15.9.3.13 Military Grade Connectors

There are some military-grade types of FOCs that are in

use for pro audio that may or may not employ a lens

system. These military-grade FOCs go beyond the

scope of this chapter.

15.9.4 Connector Installation

The procedure to install a fiber optic connector is simi-

lar to that of an electrical connector. However, FOCs

require more care, special tools, and a little more time.

But as one gains more experience, the time is signifi-

cantly reduced. The following are steps in making a

fiber optic connection:

1. Open the cable.


2. Remove jacketing and buffer layers to expose the
   fiber.


3. Cut or break the fiber.


4. Insert the fiber into the connector.


5. Attach connector to fiber with epoxy or crimp.


6. Polish or smooth the fiber end.


7. Inspect the fiber ends with a microscope.


8. Seal the connector and fiber cable.

There are presently some FOCs that do not require

epoxy or polishing. Things are constantly improving for

the better.

15.9.4.1 Current Fiber Optic Connectors for Glass

Optical Fibers (GOF)

The LC connector is becoming a de facto standard for

pro-audio and video applications. Audio equipment

manufacturers are now seeing the benefits of this con-

nector along with its harsh environment type by Neutrik

called OpticalCon®. Ongoing work is still in progress

for fiber optic cables and connectors by the AES stan-

dard group on fiber optic connectors and cables.

Figure 15-32. OpticalCon® connector. Courtesy of
Neutrik AG.

Figure 15-33. Toslink connector.