3M and Advanced Interconnect Inc. (AI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Woodhead Industries Inc., have signed a licensing agreement that will enable AI to independently manufacture and sell the Optical Gateway Interface (OGI) Multi-Fiber Connection System developed by 3M. This patented, high-density panel mount and backplane feed-through system offers technological improvements over existing parallel optic solutions, say company representatives.
The agreement makes the OGI Multi-Fiber System more accessible by providing a second source of supply for telecommunications, networking, and high-speed computing OEMs, high-end industrial controls, test equipment, medical and military customers.
Panel mount couplings are available in single and 4-port versions. Blind-mate backplane quad couplings hold four OGI connectors, each of which houses 8- or 12-fiber MT ferrules in a half-inch nominal interface. The metal components in the coupling bodies enhance EMI shielding performance, and the independent shutter system in the couplings enhances eye safety. 3M also is developing a cleaning system that enables customers to clean OGI connectors after they are installed in a backplane or front panel, addressing shortcomings with other commercially available high-density backplane solutions.
3M Single-Mode OGI Multi-Fiber Cable Assemblies are available in both 8- and 12-fiber cables. Ruggedized fan-out assemblies currently are available with 8-fiber cables. Singlemode OGI standard and ruggedized fan-outs use an OGI connector on one end and discrete connectors (ST brand, LC, SC, FC) on the breakout end that the company claims exceed industry standard pull strength requirements for extensive handling applications.
Additional information about AI (Franklin, MA) can be found on the company's Web site at www.ai-global.com.
For more information about the 3M Electronic and Interconnect Solutions Division, headquartered in Austin, TX, visit the company's Web site at www.3M.com/eisd.