Fiber Optics Subcommittee

Last Updated: July 16, 2010

Chairman: Robert Nye-Boeing
APIM: Prepare new and update existing fiber optic standards (pdf, 64.6K)

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Goal: The goal of the Fiber Optics Subcommittee is to update physical standards, design guidelines, component criteria, and testing and maintenance procedures for fiber optic components and systems for use on air transport airplanes. The standards specify a high level of performance with an objective of minimizing the cost of procurement, implementation, and maintenance. The objective is to promote the use of the latest technological enhancements to designs that accommodate use of common fiber optics in nearly all parts of the airplanes regardless of application or environment.

Project: Fiber Optics Standards 801, 802, 803, 804, 805, 806, and 807

Scope: The scope of the activity is to update the existing definitions for connectors and inserts compatible with a fiber optic medium that will accommodate ultra high-speed data requirements for new aircraft and for retrofitted systems. These definitions will include box/rack mounted and in-line connectors and termini (contacts) for fiber optics that will meet anticipated requirements. The project will also comprise the continued improvement of a common approach to fiber optic system design, component specification, testing and maintenance.

Benefit: New and evolving aircraft systems that require high-speed data transfer and the ability to handle high frequencies with minimal loss are currently being introduced in the air transport industry. These systems will require the use of evolving connectors and contacts. Airframe manufacturers agree that when fiber optic technology is mature enough to replace the copper wiring in aircraft, its accompanying family of connector shells, inserts and termini should meet a single standard specification. Regardless of the aircraft model in which it is installed and the black box to which it is attached, each fiber optic connector should be defined by a single standard. This task is to update connector standards to accommodate these changing industry requirements. The specification of common physical definitions and design practices promotes intermateability of connectors from different manufacturers. Proper intermateability provides for reliable connection between avionics and the aircraft racks. It also improves the reliability of the fiber optics termini thus reducing maintenance costs and improving aircraft dispatch performance.

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Current Drafts:

Draft 1 of Supplement 3 to ARINC Report 805: Fiber Optic Test Procedures

Draft 1 of Supplement 4 to ARINC Report 806: Fiber Optic Installation and Maintenance

Next Meeting Announcement:

Fiber Optics Subcommittee and NIC Working Group (pdf, 461K)
August 24-25, 2010; in Mukilteo, Washington
Register On Line

Working Papers:

Last Meeting Report:

Fiber Optics Subcommittee (FOS)
June 15-16, 2010; in Cleveland, Ohio

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