Using fiber optics in difficult environments can be a problem. Environmental intrusions can damage cables, interfere with connections and otherwise render your communication inoperable. If this is the case, you might want to consider a system of ruggedized fiber optics called TFOCA (Tactical Fiber Optic Cable Assembly).

Strong Connections for Difficult Environments

TFOCA ruggedized fiber optics were originally developed for the military. Military equipment has to survive severe battle conditions but often that is not their worst threat.

Military deployment seldom has the luxury of sheltered and air-conditioned buildings. Equipment used today in scorching deserts might be used tomorrow in rain-soaked jungle or sub-zero arctic environments. They needed cables that would ensure that our troops always had reliable equipment when they need it the most.

Military electronics are often transported over rough roads after being casually tossed into the back of a truck or placed on a palate tossed out of an airplane to land not-so-gently on the ground below. Equipment is deployed quickly and has to work the first time. Ruggedized fiber optics have to survive all these situations without breaking or losing transmission capability.

This strength can’t come from a heavy material. Ruggedized fiber optics are used in our nation’s military aircraft and weight must be kept as low as possible. Copper cables could never provide this level of durability without adding a huge burden to the aircraft.

Versatile Connections

Military electronics are often positioned and removed quickly with no time for fiddling with difficult connections or esoteric fiber optic tools. The old axiom of “For want of a nail the war was lost” might be restated as “For want of the right fiber optic connector…” Connections need to be made quickly in the field, often by personnel who may not be experts in fiber optics services.

Ruggedized fiber optics that meet TFOCA classification usually employ hermaphroditic connections, meaning any connector can be joined to any other connector without regard for gender. The connectors are designed to resist crushing and intrusion by contaminants. Rounded cables can be laid out quickly and then reeled back up without tangling.

TFOCA - Not Just For Tactical Applications

The military protocols for ruggedized fiber optics were so successful that civilian markets quickly started using them.

Oil and gas exploration companies use these cables for the harsh environments experienced in the drill holes. It allows them to lower sensitive electronics into exploration wells and find petroleum resources more quickly. Mining operations use them in a similar fashion.

Severe conditions aren’t the only places you’ll find ruggedized fiber optics. Television news teams often use TFOCA cables for their equipment. The ability to set up and take down broadcast quickly is critical in the highly competitive world of live news reporting.

Any organization that needs fiber optic services in harsh environments that will be moved frequently will benefit from TFOCA cabling.

Author is a freelance copywriter. For more information on Ruggedized fiber optics, visit http://www.kitcofo.com/.

[tags]Ruggedized fiber optics[/tags]