Expanded Beam vs Physical Contact Fiber Connectors: Which One Should You Choose

For fiber optics, the stability and reliability of the fiber optic connections will be dependent on the Fiber optic connector type used. There are two popular types that are available like Expanded beam connectors, and Physical contact connectors. It directly looks like they are both used to send light signals between cables, but they work quite differently. One of them is designed for extreme applications with dirt, vibration and frequently plugging.

Contact Fiber Connector Limitations

They are popular because they are physically contact fiber connectors which people believe to be high performance when clean and aligned. The problem lies in the fact that they are rather fragile and sensitive to handling and environment. Sensitivity to dust or oil on the end face can result in a significant loss of signal or loss of signal. In the real world, that means that cleaning equipment and scope of inspection needs to be present at each connection, most of the time.Other restrictions are given in plugging and unplugging. The smooth ends of fibres touch each other and over time may become worn over time. After that, the signal will slowly fade out. This can become additional maintenance in a data center or telecom site, which can reoccur.

Expanded Beam Advantages

One of the applications for expanded beam connectors is when standard Fiber connectors start to become overrun. The light is widened to a wider beam before passing through the gap and then narrows back down to a fibre after passing through the second gap. One of the most awesome features of these is the dirt, and dust resistance. That's because the beam is larger and the signal is larger, so that the signal is not obstructed by very small particles stuck to the connector surface. Connectors are exposed to wind, sand or moisture in outdoor communications systems or temporary military communications systems, for instance. In expanded beam designs there is no need for clean conditions.

Maintenance Comparison

One of the most significant differences between expanded beam fiber connectors and physical contact fiber connectors is the maintenance. For many projects, it's the difference that makes it easier to select a Mil spec fiber connectors .Regular and careful cleaning and maintenance of physical contact fiber connectors. Typically, techs take a look at end faces prior to each connection, and a speck of dust may influence performance. This can include cleaning kits, lint free wipes and inspection instruments, and at times. This is controllable in a controlled environment, such as a data centre, air is filtered and there's more discipline when it comes to handling.

Lifecycle Cost Comparison

When deciding on the type of fiber connector to use, there are a number of factors to consider other than the initial price. The bottom line is that lifecycle cost can often provide a better understanding of how much you're spending over time.These fiber connectors need to be cleaned on a regular basis, thus increasing the costs of consumables such as cleaning kits, inspection instruments, replacement parts, etc. Not to mention the price of labor.

Which One Should You Choose

The decision between expanded beam and physical contact fiber connectors will depend on the application and conditions where it will be installed. There are no universal best fiber connectors for any situation, the use of a connector may be beneficial based on the environment and work load.Physical fiber connectors might sound like a great solution in an environment like a data center, office network, or lab, where the environment is clean and controlled. The areas with controlled temperature, dust and handling are these.