Optical pin-and-socket termini connectors for radar, sonar, and communications introduced by TE Connectivity

July 9, 2020
Pin-and-socket termini are drop-in replacements for the MIL-PRF-29504 /4 and /5 physical contact termini used in many ruggedized circular connectors.

HARRISBURG, Pa. – TE Connectivity in Harrisburg, Pa., is introducing the EB16 expanded beam optical pin-and-socket termini in single-mode and multimode variations for a variety of military, commercial aerospace, harsh-environment industrial, and space applications.

Both variations are based on an updated design that includes springless mating and crimpless cable retention. Applications include radar and sensor systems; rugged communications networks; fixed wing and rotary aircraft; unmanned aerial vehicles; commercial avionics and sensing; military avionics, sensing and ordnance; and military ground vehicles.

EB16 optical single-mode and multimode pin-and-socket termini are drop-in replacements for the MIL-PRF-29504 /4 and /5 physical contact termini used in many ruggedized circular connector systems.

EB16 termini fit standard D38999 size 16 cavities and are compliant with MIL-DTL-38999 Series I and Series III connectors, as well as the MIL-STD-1760 connector.

Related: Rugged Cat 7 wire and cable for harsh-environment military applications introduced by TE Connectivity

EB16 termini connectors are built on TE's PRO BEAM expanded beam connector technology, which expands and collimates the optical signal into a beam size well beyond its original size to help provide easier optical alignment, low sensitivity to contamination and consistent performance over thermal changes.

Separating the optical components by an airgap and removing physical contact helps improve performance and reduce damage in rugged conditions such as high vibration and shock. The mated termini engagement length is more than two times deeper than the standard MIL-PRF-29504 /4 and /5, which helps improve stability and performance during vibration.

These termini include features that compensate for inherent connector mating misalignments. For a D38999 size 25-37 connector loaded with termini, the springless termini can reduce the total axial connector mating force by approximately 150 pound-force.

Crimp eyelets and the need for a crimp tool have been eliminated; therefore, reducing overall termination time and labor. For more information contact TE Connectivity online at www.te.com.

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