ElectroniCast: Short-reach links fuel worldwide connector market

An increase in the demand for shorter optical links is fuelling the market for fiber-optic connectors and mechanical splices, according to ElectroniCast Consultants. The market research firm has just released its annual market forecast and analysis of the use of fiber-optic connectors and mechanical splices in communication applications, covering the period 2010-2015.

Technological advances in fiber optics are bringing fiber closer to the end user, the company says. This translates into demand for shorter links where connectors represent a substantial share of the total installation cost. The cost concerns are being addressed with the introduction of smaller, lower cost, and easier to install connectors, including mechanical splice field-installable connectors. Mechanical splices are simply alignment devices designed to hold the fiber ends in a precisely aligned position, thus enabling light to pass from one fiber into the other.

"Worldwide multimode connector consumption value is forecast to nearly double during the 2010-2015 timeframe," said Stephen Montgomery, president of ElectroniCast. "Multimode fiber is best suited for use in short lengths, such as those used in local area networks, data centers, and storage area networks."

Fiber-optic connectors used with multimode optical fiber will dominate the worldwide consumption in 2011 with 60% of the total value, ElectroniCast predicts, followed by singlemode connectors (34%) and finally mechanical splices (6%). The use of mechanical splices, which are suitable for FTTH (drop) installations, is expected to increase rapidly. Multi-fiber connectors (more than two fibers) are the choice for high fiber density interconnect applications.

This report is available immediately from ElectroniCast Consultants. The forecast is presented for each significant type of fiber-optic connector and mechanical splice used in selected communication applications.

For more information on optical connectors and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyers Guide.