The most advanced fiber optic solutions

From land to air to sea, Molex fiber optics ensure seamless connectivity in mission-critical applications

LISLE, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Molex Incorporated plans to showcase its advanced fiber optic solutions at MILCOM 2013, November 18-20, San Diego Convention Center, CA.

“Military applications require electronic components that can withstand demanding environments, without sacrificing performance. From ruggedized optical connectors and cable assemblies and backplane interconnects to FlexPlane™ circuitry and adapters, we offer a complete portfolio of superior fiber optic technologies,” states Mark Matus, product manager, Molex. “From integrated command communications to platform systems, we give every customer a tactical advantage.”

Molex helps defense contractors and military suppliers to strategically control costs, while delivering innovation, quality and reliability in standard and custom fiber optics. In addition, the Molex portfolio offers a broad span of COTS capabilities that apply and have been utilized in many aerospace and defense applications. At MILCOM 2013, the Molex exhibition booth 1541 will feature proven fiber optic technologies for aerospace and defense applications, including:

FlexPlane™ Optical Flex Circuitry

As one of the most versatile fiber routing systems on the market, Molex FlexPlane optical flex circuitry provides high density routing on PCBs or backplanes and is compatible with MT/MPO and discrete fiber terminations, including MIL-PRF-29504s. FlexPlane optical circuitry is available for virtually any routing scheme – card-to-card, card-to-backplane or across the backplane. Traditional FlexPlane flex circuits are routed on a single substrate. The 3D FlexPlane routes the fiber on multiple stacked substrates to achieve a compact routing area.

Circular MT Assemblies

Designed to deliver optimal reliability in mission-critical applications, rugged circular MT interconnect cable assemblies use one to three MT ferrules housed in a nickel-plated, metal-connector shell. Ranging from 12 to 72 fiber count, circular MT assemblies feature a metal housing and push-pull locking ring. Providing optimal mating on the card front panel or chassis back panel, circular MT assemblies provide consistent mating and alignment, with increased pull-strength.

VITA 66.1 Ruggedized Optical MT Backplane Interconnect System

Designed for high-density military, aerospace and commercial-embedded system applications, the compact VITA 66.1 ruggedized optical MT backplane interconnect system meets the ANSI-ratified specification for blind mate fiber optic interconnects in VPX architectures, or can be used as a stand-alone solution outside of the VPX architecture. The Molex VITA 66.1 interconnects reduce installation and maintenance by enabling field servicing without hand tools, even in densely populated systems. Available with 24 to 48 fibers in standard singlemode or multimode and VersaBeam™ (expanded beam) MT ferrule options for design flexibility, the VITA 66.1 interconnect features a robust aluminum housing to withstand extreme temperature ranges (-50 to +105°C), shock and vibration.

“Military applications rely on strict VPX compliance for demanding embedded computing systems. Smaller chassis and board-size based equipment needs to be easily accessible for field serviceability,” adds Matus. “Featuring a high density ferrule-carrier design and robust housing, our VITA 66.1 optical MT backplane system optimizes design flexibility and simplifies installation in embedded VPX-architecture military and aerospace backplane applications.”

Optical EMI Shielding Adapters

Limiting electro-magnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference, Molex optical EMI shielding adapters are designed to meet performance and intermateability requirements in aerospace and defense communication systems. Delivering a wide variety of optical interfaces and an IP67-sealed harsh environmental protection with LC interfaces, optical EMI shielding adapters are ideal in rugged networking applications. Featuring an EMI gasket that seals the adapters to the panel, optical EMI adapters increase shielding effectiveness while enhancing front-panel aesthetics compared to traditional plastic adapters.