OFS unveils LC 'crimp and cleave' connector, termination kit for industrial cabling system

Fiber-optic network products specialist OFS announced the launch of its LC Crimp and Cleave connectivity solution for industrial networks. The company notes that its LC Crimp and Cleave connector takes advantage of the advanced optical and mechanical properties of its HCS (Hard Clad Silica) and Graded Index HCS optical fibers, attaching to the cable through mechanical means rather than traditional epoxy/polish methods.

Fast (100 Mb/sec) and Gigabit Ethernet (1000Mb/sec) data rates in industrial networks demand higher bandwidth and real-time, low-latency communications, maintains OFS. The increasing use of intelligent electronic devices, utility-grade rugged Internet Protocol (IP) routers, and Ethernet switches is driving IP-based communications on the production floor and new demands in factory automation and industrial networking applications. A high bandwidth, rugged, and reliable cabling solution is indispensable for the growing demand in industrial networking applications as data rates in industrial settings grow. OFS contends that its GiHCS optical fiber in a Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) cable construction with easy-to-use Crimp and Cleave LC connectors enable technicians with an easy-to-learn connector installation method for harsh environments.

Advantages of OFS' GiHCS Industrial Cabling Solution with the new LC Crimp and Cleave connector, according to the company, include the following: wide GiHCS cable operating temperature range of -20 to +80 °C; resistance to abrasion, vibration and industrial chemicals; indoor and outdoor use; high tensile strength; fast (100 Mb/sec) and Gigabit (1000 Mb/sec) Ethernet compatible; compatibility with most common small format pluggable (SFP) transceivers; fiber-optic specialists not required for deployment; no power, no epoxy, no gel, no polishing required for termination process.

“What was historically a 10 minute process for installing fiber-optic terminations is now made simpler and easier with OFS’ new Crimp and Cleave technology,” comments Mike Hines, marketing manager for industrial and energy markets at OFS. “Designed with the field installer in mind, technicians with minimal fiber-optic experience can rapidly install new or repair damaged fiber optic cables with OFS’ 'Crimp, Cleave and Leave' LC technology.”