Chiral Photonics, Inc. SBIR Phase I Award, September 2018

Fiber optic data links are attractive for their wide bandwidth, low weight, electromagnetic interference immunity and ability to transmit high fidelity analog and digital radio-frequency-over-fiber (RFoF) signals. Multicore fiber (MCF) links will provide even higher capacity and density and enhance dynamic range analog links using parallel fibers of precisely equal length. The need for a high-quality, ruggedized MCF connector, enabling pluggable, high capacity, fiber optic link ports across military platforms, warrants the establishment of a MIL-spec for such a connector.In Phase I, Chiral Photonics, Inc. (CPI), will design an MCF connector that meets the environmental and mechanical requirements for fiber connectors as outlined in MIL-PRF-64266 while addressing repeatability requirements. Leveraging its experience in MCF fanouts and optical fiber connectorization and, in cooperation with a provider of MIL-spec connectors to the U.S. military, CPI will focus on MIL-spec-ready connectors based on commercially available NGCON and MPO connectors. CPI will simulate the performance of the MCF connector, create a prototype and conduct initial repeatability testing. The Phase I effort will enable a path into Phase II where a scalable connector will be constructed and tested and will be the basis for a new MIL-spec , military grade MCF connector.