High Power Data Transmission

Introduction

The demand for high-power connectors is increasing. Drivers for the demand are the bridging of very long distances and the increasing multiplexing operation of fiber optic lines in towns.

High-power operation is defined as a power of ≥ 2 watts in the fiber. R&M tests the high-power capability of patch cords according to IEC 62627-03-04, the guideline for passive optical components in high-power operation.

What matters

For R&M, two aspects are decisive in determining whether a patch cable is suitable for use in high-power continuous operation:

Firstly, there is the precision of the fiber assembly or the centering and polishing of the fiber end-face:

• Lowest IL values / highest RL values
• APC polishing
• APEX < 30µm

Recommendation

E-2000™ patch cables have all the required properties to a high degree.

R&M recommends using cables assembled to E-2000™/APC Grade B1 in high-power operations.