Fiber Optic Interconnect Technology

"The proposed fiber-optic terminus provides high-bandwidth connectivity to an optical transceiver on an underwater vehicle or other platform. Unique technology is used to provide full azimuthal coverage with no moving parts for acquisition, tracking,transmission and reception. The receiver, in particular, combines very high sensitivity with high bandwidth to support data rates in excess of 10 Mbps. The terminus is designed to be low-cost and easy to manufacture. Commercial opportunities are possiblewith the offshore oil/gas drilling industry, which is increasing its use of ROVs and other undersea technology, and the fiber-communications industry, for which this technology could provide diagnostic connections for undersea fiber-optic amplifier orregenerator locations. Other applications include communication and safety equipment for divers (commercial and pleasure) and improved short-range, high-bandwidth terrestrial FSO communications devices."