Agilent Technologies 83433A, User Manual, Page: 38 / 62

3-7
Reference
Cleaning Connections for Accurate Measurements
Figure 3-1. Basic components of a connector.
Over the last few years, the FC/PC style connector has emerged as the most
popular connector for fiber-optic applications. While not the highest perform-
ing connector, it represents a good compromise between performance, reli-
ability, and cost. If properly maintained and cleaned, this connector can
withstand many repeated connections.
However, many instrument specifications require tighter tolerances than most
connectors, including the FC/PC style, can deliver. These instruments cannot
tolerate connectors with the large non-concentricities of the fiber common
with ceramic style ferrules. When tighter alignment is required, Agilent
Technologies instruments typically use a connector such as the Diamond
HMS-10, which has concentric tolerances within a few tenths of a micron. Agi-
lent Technologies then uses a special universal adapter, which allows other
cable types to mate with this precision connector. See
Figure 3-2 .
Figure 3-2. Universal adapters to Diamond HMS-10.