Digitization even in harsh environments: ODU relies on data transmission over optical fiber communication technology

ODU announces new solutions for connector system with powerful “fiber optic” technology. With this said, the company wants to serve a trend that is currently increasing due to high data rates – also outside of ICT.

ODU’s strategy is to offer high quality, pre-assembled complete systems that exactly match the respective customer application requirement profile. In this regard, the connector manufacturer works extensively on transmission protocols such as Ethernet, USB, HDMI, DisplayPort and Single Pair Ethernet. The data can then be transmitted, for example, via strong prefabricated round conductors or modular conductor systems with qualified data technology applications with respect to the limit values ​​specified in the standards.

However, optical fiber transmission is also playing an increasingly important role. In the context of the advancement of digitization, the demand for high-performance, interference-free data networks is increasing. This means that there is a demand for alternatives to traditional copper transport – for example in medical technology, measurement and testing technology, and military applications.

Therefore, the ODU has expanded the scope of fiber optic technology and ready-made connectors, which allows maximum data transmission with minimal latency over long distances.

The video explains why the company considers this area strategically:

ODU’s focus in optical fiber field is on powerful technology and complete system solutions:

Extended beam technology

For very harsh environments, the ODU offers “extended packet” technology, which does not require direct communication with communication systems. With it, the optical signal is transmitted from one contact to another by expanding the beam inside the conductor system. This is done through special lenses. This greatly increases the light transmission range and is therefore less susceptible to interference than conventional optical fibres. Constant and time-required cleaning is also eliminated. Depending on the environment, extended beam system solutions should only be cleaned after about 20,000 mating cycles (depending on contact type). This technology allows a very high number of about 100,000 mating cycles, the fiberglass end faces being prevented from scratching.

physical contact technology

In contrast to the Extended Beam Technology, the Physical Connection Technology is based on direct connection to the ends of the ferrule. With it, the end faces of the ends of the fiberglass, which are located inside the rings, touch each other exactly in the middle. The small diameter of the fiberglass core – 9 micrometers for single mode, 50 micrometers for multi mode – means that with this system, even a small particle of dust is enough to severely disrupt the transmission system. For this reason, the connector must be cleaned before each connection. An advantage of this solution is a particularly low insertion loss. In addition, this technology is designed for standard requirements and runs up to 1,000 mating cycles.

polymer optical fibers

The third option is based on special plastic fibers (instead of fiberglass). POF or polymeric optical fibers is a cost effective solution. It was originally developed for use in vehicle technology and features short data lines and limited performance with slightly higher transmission attenuation values. However, POF solutions are suitable for short distances and simple applications, such as light color detection. In addition, the plastic fibers provide high flexural strength.