Data link solution for high-speed fibre-optic communication

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22 August 2007 Interconnection

New compact designs in consumer electronics have increased the demand for smaller interconnect solutions. To meet this need, Molex has developed a new plastic optical fibre data link solution. Based on the Molex small media interconnect 'SMI', this solution offers seamless, low cost optical data link solutions, as well as space saving qualities through its reduced size and added surface mount capabilities.

As a complete duplex POF solution, the SMI connector and transceiver interconnect system has been adopted by the IEEE 1394 trade committee and is now gaining momentum as the industry standard for POF (polymer optical fibre) interconnects. The optical data links have low power consumption and are compatible with IEEE 802.3u Fast Ethernet data communications standards, making them an attractive interface for a variety of applications. Available in active device transceivers, adapters, cables and field termination tooling, this system can be employed in consumer electronic devices such as audio, video, home networking and entertainment equipment. They are also well suited in OEM equipment applications such as data link solutions and networking markets, including industrial, home/office network PC and server applications.

Utilising Firecomms' RCLED-based 650 nm FOT TX/RX transceivers, Molex SMI-based data links offer high speed long distance links with data speeds up to 250 Mbps over 50 metres. The Firecomms FOTs have digitally integrated driver circuitry to reduce PCB real estate and are compatible with CML signalling for seamless integration into Ethernet hubs. The FOT system's high sensitivity receiver IC and pin-diode for one-step light to digital conversion also allows integrated optics to efficiently focus and direct light.

With surface or through-hole soldering mounting options, the SMI transceivers have been reduced in size and now allow for lower cost, high volume surface mount processing. SMI offers duplex, push-pull positive latching with a safe-release mechanism for consumer applications, providing secure and safe de-mating features. Additionally, the easy no-epoxy, no-polish field termination process, with specialised tooling, gives installers quick and simple field terminations.

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Data link solution for high-speed fibre-optic communication

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