New single-mode fiber micro- and multi-fiber microarrays successfully address these issues. These systems are ultra-fast, computer independent, and most importantly, highly reliable. Perhaps the most interesting new feature is the reference fiber optic connector. These fully automate the referencing of single-mode fiber optic connectors. Manual mirror adjustment has long been abolished. Now simply plug the reference fiber optic connector into the system and within seconds the system will be fully calibrated. Let's expand on this and other properties below.
Versatility
The microarray has the capability to measure both multimode fiber optic connectors and singlemode fiber optic connectors in a very small footprint and is available by default on laptops. However, a desktop option is also available. While optimized for multi-fiber connectors, it excels at measuring single-mode fiber PC and APC connectors. High-resolution cameras and optics improve repeatability and reproducibility. A power cord and USB 2.0 port on the back simplify connectivity.
pollute
The dust-free, sealed optical module design eliminates concerns about dusty production environments. It is also insensitive to vibration, making it suitable for production and field-based geometry testing.
automation
Using the single-fiber miniature PMS, the operator can easily insert and remove the fiber optic connector under test. There are no mechanical adjustments. Focusing, centering and reference mirror calibration are all performed automatically. However, if the operation requires manual focusing or fiber centering, digital controls are available. Mirror calibration can be done by the old method of using a connector with a certain offset and taking eight measurement positions in a pie chart. The system then calculates the necessary adjustments and adjusts the mirrors automatically. However, this new system takes automation a step further. With the optional RFID reference connector, the system will recognize the reference connector measurement, compare it to the measurement, calculate and automatically adjust the mirror image.
The chip has a built-in MT connector automatic calibration system, and the reference guide pin is self-calibrated before each measurement to ensure accuracy. These reference guide pins are integrated in the chuck and are made of ceramic so they do not bend. Other systems require periodic manual adjustments, which can cause downtime and potentially inaccurate information. Like the Micro PMS, the array is designed for simple handling. The operator simply plugs in the MT or MPO and presses the measure button. The system automatically focuses, finds fibers, calibrates and measures.
speed
The product's mantra is "Quick and Accurate Measurements". Array measurements including calibration verification typically take less than 45 seconds and single fiber connector measurements in less than 3 seconds. What does this mean for operators?
After each measurement, 2D and 3D high-resolution images of the test sample and a detailed QC report are generated. You can switch between chucks for a few seconds by loosening the single screw that holds the chuck to the interferometer. Likewise, changing the chuck from single fiber to MT/MPO® or MT-RJ requires no calibration as it is automatically calibrated for each measurement. When switching to a 1.25mm, 2.5mm or any other single fiber cartridge with an RFID reference connector, referencing takes just seconds.
The calibration between the single fiber interferometer and the computer is done by the instrument itself. This eliminates the need for the interferometer and PC as a pair. Software backups, calibrations and images from the accompanying PC are stored in non-volatile memory on the instrument itself. This makes it easier to recover lost disks, viruses, deleted files, corrupted Windows and PC failures.
measurement accuracy
This is the ceramic reference pin method that ensures measurement accuracy without calibration when switching to or between multi-fiber chucks.
