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FEATURE CABLES & CONNECTORS HOW FIBRE OPTIC
TECHNOLOGY WILL SHAPE THE CONTROL PANEL INDUSTRY
Fibre optic connectors are integral to control panel
applications, ensuring dependable and high-speed data transmission across diverse industrial systems, as Radek Slováček and Vít Čech, technical consultants at PEI-Genesis, explain
S
electing the right connector for control panel applications is essential in order to guarantee optimal performance –
and with the need for faster and more dependable data transfer, fibre optic technology has emerged as the preferred solution for enhancing control panel connectivity. Serving as the central hub in manufacturing
processes such as manufacturing, automation and telecommunications, control panels are used to monitor and control an array of systems, encompassing sensors, actuators, switches and other essential components. To meet such demands, fibre optic connectors enable large amounts of data to be transmitted over long distances with minimal signal degradation. Compared to copper connectors, fibre
optic connectors also offer higher bandwidth, immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and enhanced security due to their immunity to tapping. They also provide improved resistance to harsh environmental conditions, such as temperature extremes, humidity and chemical exposure.
CONNECTOR AND CABLE SELECTION When selecting the appropriate connectors and cables, it is important to consider all the requirements and environmental influences that arise during installation, changes, de-installation or operation. The choice of cable determines several other parameters that define the method of cable manipulation or the minimum bending requirements. Optical fibre has many advantages over copper
42 DESIGN SOLUTIONS MARCH 2024
conductors in terms of electromagnetic interference and power line interference, but it is sensitive to moisture and micro and macro bends. Optical cables require more delicate and thoughtful management, storage procedures, and consideration of technological reserves.
“Fibre optic
connectors enable large amounts of
data to be transmitted over long distances with minimal signal degradation”
Inappropriately chosen or poorly implemented
cable management systems can increase maintenance costs or hinder changes to existing installations. Connectivity costs often represent up to 5% of the total solution but cause 95% of the problems. Another consideration is compatibility with
existing systems and equipment. Users need to assess the requirements of the control panel and determine the type of connectors used in the network infrastructure. Common connector types include LC, SC, ST and
MPO/MTP. Opting for compatible connectors will simplify installation and minimise the need for additional adapters or converters. Similarly, control panels often have limited
space, making it important to opt for connectors that offer high connector density, such as MPO/MTP connectors. These allow multiple fibres to be terminated in a single connector. Costs can also be saved by choosing
connectors that offer scalability and compatibility with emerging technologies. There is a noticeable increase of users choosing a single mode solution instead of lower-priced multimode (such as OM4 or less adopted OM5), and one of the key factors causing that is price difference decreasing enough to justify advantages of the single mode solutions. It is important to choose fibre optic connectors
that are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions. Connectors with robust sealing, dust caps and ruggedised housing provide enhanced protection against contaminants and ensure long-term reliability.
THE FUTURE Fibre optic technology will continue to evolve and shape the control panel industry in the future. The increasing demand for high-speed data transmission, longer reach, wider bandwidth, and electromagnetic interference resistance, therefore positions fibre optics in a more significant role in future cabling.
PEI Genesis
T: 02380 621309
www.peigenesis.com
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