Fiber-optic requirements for advanced platform integration

A detailed protocol is needed for the terminus endface geometry preparation. Good optical performance can be realized despite an improper endface preparation. The importance of proper endface preparation will not only optimize optical transmittance, but will increase the in-service life of the terminus interconnect. There is a critical need to properly articulate the termini preparation. The many sizes and insert arrangements in fiber-optic connectors have created several overriding maintainability issues, e.g., how to properly test the fiber-optic cable plant and how to properly clean the fiber-optic termini. The need to establish a test point in a fiber-optic connector may require the use of a "breakout" connector system that allows test and measurement equipment to launch and measure optical power from the cable plant connector. The feasibility of using maintenance-breaks, short fiber optic cables that connect to the end of the cable and function as "sacrificial plugs in a system, should be considered.