SEPTEMBER 29, 2008 -- Molex (search for Molex) has introduced new routing configurations to the FlexPlane optical flex circuitry for high fiber-count interconnects in backplanes and cross-connect systems. FlexPlane provides a completely customizable means of routing fiber from card to card or shelf to shelf, Molex says.

FlexPlane is available in multiple design options. The standard FlexPlane (Series 106401) provides high-density routing on a flexible, flame-resistant substrate. The flame-retardant FlexPlane assembly (Series 106404) meets the UL Optical Branching Device Flammability requirements. Providing almost a 50% substrate size reduction compared to the standard FlexPlane, where the flex circuits are routed on a single substrate, the 3D FlexPlane (Series 106406) routes the fiber on multiple stacked substrates. This feature may prove critical as board space and air flow continue to become a stringent part of OEM design requirements.

A variety of interconnects, including Blind Mate MTP, High Density Blind Mate MT, Blind Mate LC, and Blind Mate SC can be used to connect the optical flex circuits to individual cards in a shelf. Available in any routing scheme, fiber can be routed point-to-point, in a shuffle, or in a logical pattern to meet specific requirements.

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