Leading global connector manufacturer and supplier ITT Interconnect Solutions has announced that its PHD38999 connector which utilises its tunable size 22 fibre-optic termini have passed a series of harsh environment tests included in industry-standard M38999 specifications. These connections systems are used in demanding defence and aerospace applications, including vision systems, flight connectors and control systems.

ITT's PHD38999 connector, utilising its unique size 22 termini, successfully passed comprehensive Design Verification Testing (DVT), including meeting stringent specifications for mating repeatability, temperature cycling, vibration, mechanical shock, humidity and mating durability. ITT ICS PHD38999 connectors offer high density of up to 50 channels per square inch. Further innovative benefits of PHD38999 interconnects include removable sleeve inserts which allow direct end face access for terminus cleaning and inspection. As PHD terminus retention is via ITT's patented Little Caesar contact retention clip technology, there is unparalleled flexibility for installing, servicing, cleaning and repairing single optical channels.

DVT results for the size 22 PHD38999 termini showed less than 0.20 dB Change in Transmittance (CIT) after five hundred mating and de-mating cycles. The temperature cycling test was performed between extremes of -55degC and +105degC, with the connector being held at these extreme temperatures for an hour.